Preparing for a Rabbit, L.A. style!

If you’re hoping to take a rabbit home the same day you visit us, you’ll want to be prepared.

The following a list of necessary items and where they can be purchased in or near Los Angeles. Click on the links for further information, and print the list to take with you shopping. Then, once you bring your rabbit home, you’ll be all set! As always, feel free to ask any questions!

Pellets

We (and our vets) strongly recommend Oxbow Bunny Basics T, given in limited quantities.

Hay

Timothy or Oat Hay is best for all but the youngest and oldest rabbits and should be provided in unlimited quantites as the top layer in the litterbox. Larger quanties of hay from feed stores are fresher and less expensive. Remember, hay is CRUCIAL to a rabbit’s health. Read about the basics of hay here.

Housing

You have many options depending on your preferences and budget. Please read this article before going shopping. Remember, most cages sold in pet stores are too small for a rabbit to be healthy and happy. An average sized rabbit should have an enclosure that’s at least 3′ wide, 2′ deep and 2′ tall – about the size of a large dog crate.

Carrier

Carriers made for cats are great; soft-sided ones are a nice option. Please bring a carrier with you when you adopt.

Water container

Most rabbits drink from water bottles; some like bowls/crocks – you might want to start out with both and see what your rabbit prefers.

Litterbox

A basic medium/large cat litterbox (without lid/roof) works best. These tend to be less expensive at the big chain stores like Petco or PetSmart (but we don’t recommend buying hay or food there.)

Litter

Must be non-clumping, natural litter; we recommend Carefresh or Feline Pine. PetSmart has a version of Feline Pine called Exquisicat Pine. Typically this is the bottom layer in the litterbox; hay goes on top. Newspaper also works fine as the bottom layer.

Toys

Not all rabbits like the same toys, but nearly all will love a cardboard toilet paper core filled with hay! Read more about toy options here.

Veggies

Print this list before going shopping. Introduce vegetables slowly and in small amounts, as shelter bunnies typically aren’t used to a lot of greens. A handful a day per rabbit (comprised of at least 2 kinds of greens) is a good rule of thumb. Purchase veggies a couple times a week so they’re always fresh.

White vinegar

White vinegar is nontoxic and ideal for cleaning up a litterbox or any “accidents.” You can find this at any grocery store. A spray bottle full of vinegar is especially convenient.

Bunnyproofing Materials

Exposed cords can be encased in vinyl tubing found at hardware stores.

Grooming items

Nail clippers and a brush with stiff bristles are helpful.

Unnecessary or Potentially Harmful Items

include shampoo, packaged treats, leash/harness and salt/mineral licks.

RabbitMatch.org

Give a bun the gift of life... Make adoption your option!