Draft — replace with your own guidance.
Housing
Bigger than you think. A rabbit needs room to take three hops in a line and to stand fully upright on its back legs. Solid flooring, a hiding spot, and a quiet corner away from household traffic. Wire-bottom cages cause sore hocks — avoid them.
Diet
- Unlimited grass hay (timothy or orchard). This is the bulk of the diet, not a garnish.
- A measured portion of quality pellets daily.
- Fresh greens, introduced slowly and one at a time.
- Constant fresh water.
- Treats are occasional. Fruit is sugar.
A rabbit that stops eating is an emergency, not a wait-and-see.
Grooming
Holland Lops shed in cycles. Brush during a molt so they swallow less fur. Never bathe a rabbit — it's dangerous for them; spot-clean instead.
Handling
Support the hindquarters always. Rabbits are prey animals: approach at their level, let them come to you, and keep first meetings on the floor rather than in your arms.
Nail trimming
Every 4–6 weeks. Small snips, avoid the quick, and stop if you're unsure — I'm happy to walk you through it.
Veterinary care
Find a rabbit-savvy exotics vet before you need one. Many general practices don't treat rabbits, and finding that out during an emergency is the worst time.
General tips
- Rabbit-proof cords before free-roam time.
- Litter boxes work — most rabbits pick it up quickly.
- Spaying and neutering improves both behavior and long-term health.
- A bored rabbit is a destructive rabbit. Give them things to chew and dig.