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magic4ewe Regular user 179 Posts |
Well, I am a brand-new bunny owner. We bought a beautiful Holland Lop from a breeder. Since we are first-time bunny owners we opted for a bunny that was a year old. The reason for this was suggested by the breeder herself. She said many people want "baby" rabbits because they are so cute and they think they can start the "training/bonding", not realizing that older rabbits are actually easier to train.
She said what most people don't realize is that "babies" quickly become "teens" and exhibit more aggressive behaviour and a lot of spraying in males. She said it is very important to have rabbits spayed or neutered not only for their health, but their behaviour also. Now, if a female has already given birth to a litter, she said spaying is not required because it has already changed their hormones. After the operation a bunny's personality will mellow, however, you will never truly know their personalities until such time as they are an "adult" rabbit. Now, we have had our girl for a week now. She is a total love, but I can see a few changes in her. She is quite cuddly, very intelligent, but is learning to love the independence she now has. Before she was in a cage unless she was being groomed or in a show. Now, she has free time for a good 6 hours a day. She is not quite as readily happy to be picked up any more. She will let you if you absolutely insist, but she would rather just come up to you and snuggle next to you. She is an awesome de-stresser. In the past week I have loved coming home from work (I get off at noon) before anyone else gets home and spending time with her. I sit down on the floor and she will happily come over looking for a treat and some attention. I will spend about 30 minutes just grooming her and giving her a bunny massage. I talk to her and call her silly names. I know she is comfortable because she will stretch out in the most relaxed position! She is really smart too! In only a week we have managed to litter train her. She occasionally has an accident, but not very often. I am sure within a short time that these accidents will go away entirely. The bottom line, like everyone else has said, your guys will do much better when they have been nurtured. To anyone else considering getting a rabbit, I think I would most whole-heartedly take the breeder's advice and get an adult rabbit again if I were to get another rabbit in the future. |
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Bob Johnston Inner circle Philadelphia, PA 1251 Posts |
Magic4ewe:
Quote:
Now, if a female has already given birth to a litter, she said spaying is not required because it has already changed their hormones. Not true, breeders are not the best place to get advice on rabbit behavior and health. Female rabbits have a Very High death rate from ovarian cancer. That is the reason they should be spayed, not for their aggressive behavior. Having had a litter, does not change the risk. Your rabbit sounds great, but the analogy you were told about baby rabbits is not true. Bob |
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magic4ewe Regular user 179 Posts |
Thanks for the response Bob. I will definitely put a call into my vet to find out about spaying and the necessity of it. Ultimately, I want what is best for my little girl. I appreciate the heads up! I read a lot of information on bunnies prior to purchasing one but many times the information conflicts and I guess it is mainly based on the author's own opinions and beliefs. This can make it difficult for a newbie like me when trying to care for one!
As far as the baby theory, I was given that information from two independent people, so again, I apologize if my information was incorrect. One was the breeder, and the one was a rescue shelter. I guess both could of had ulterior motive for wanting me to take an older rabbit. Either way, it really doesn't matter because we have been blessed with a wonderful pet. Again, I really appreciate the information you passed on about the spaying. I will contact my vet today! |
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Bob Johnston Inner circle Philadelphia, PA 1251 Posts |
Magic4ewe:
Your rabbit it going to do well. This is shown by the clear interest and caring you show in her welfare. Check out the House Rabbit Society on the web, all their advice is good. Bob |
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