Taking Care of Indoor Rabbits

The minimum cage space for a single rabbit is 2 feet by 2 feet by 4 feet. Although many cages are made from wire it is important to provide an area that is made from a solid material. Newspaper with a sea grass mat works well. The mats can be safely used for chewing.

Rabbits require a diet rich in vitamins and high (15 percent) in fiber. Provide unlimited access to grass hays like timothy, brome, oat or wheat. Alfalfa hay is not recommended because it is too calcium- and protein-rich for adult rabbits. Hay can be purchased from a local feed store or ordered from companies like Oxbow, (800) 249-0366. In addition, for rabbits over 8 months of age, provide about 1/8 to 1/4 cup of fresh commercial rabbit pellets per 5 pounds of body weight twice a day. Avoid those pellets that contain nuts and grains. For younger rabbits, less than 8 months of age, offer unlimited plain alfalfa pellets. Limiting the pellets in young rabbits can have a devastating effect.

Fresh, green leafy vegetables are crucial. Feed a minimum of one cup of vegetables per 4 pounds of body weight daily. Try alfalfa sprouts, basil, parsley, beet greens, broccoli leaves, brussel sprouts, carrots and carrot tops, cilantro, collard greens, endive, green peppers, parsley, romaine lettuce, kale, raspberry leaves, wheat grass, squash, raddichio and dandelion leaves. Rabbits seem to like everything but, as with all animals, it is important to introduce any new food gradually to avoid any gastrointestinal upset. In general, fruits, grains, cereals and breads should only be given in limited amounts because excesses can lead to fatal diarrheas. Limit fruit to no more than two tablespoons, and stick to the high fiber fruits like apples, pears, plums, melons, raspberries, papaya, blueberries, blackberries, strawberries and pineapple. Avoid fruits with high sugar content such as bananas and grapes.

Provide fresh water daily in a clean water bottle or a heavy porcelain crock. Change the water daily and wash and disinfect the bowl once a week.

The following are common diseases and disorders of indoor rabbits:

• Clostridial diarrhea
• Dysbiosis Secondary to Antibiotic therapy
• Malocclusion
• Mucoid Enteritis
• Pasteurella multocida
• Respiratory Disease
• Trichobezoars/ hairball/ "wool block"
• Urogenital Disorders
• Abscesses
• Viral Hemorrhagic Disease
• Calciuria
• Acute Diarrhea
• Coccidiosis
• External parasites  

Reference Links:
http://www.petplace.com/small-mammals/caring-for-your-rabbit