They are silent and extremely clean companions, perfect for those looking for practical and affectionate pets.
International Rabbit Day, celebrated on September 28, is a perfect opportunity to highlight the unique characteristics of these animals. With more than 50 known breeds, these pets weigh from 800 to 20 kg and, if well cared for, can live from six to 13 years, making long-lived and charming companions, especially for those with little space at home or little time.
According to Marco Aurélio Molina Pires, professor of the Veterinary Medicine course at Unic Beira Rio, rabbits are silent, intelligent, very clean and easy to look after. “They always do their business in the same place and take up little space. Being crepuscular, they tend to be more active when their owner arrives home, ready to interactalthough many don’t like to be caressed or held,” he explains.
Below, check out 5 interesting facts about rabbits!
1. They are not rodents
Although they gnaw on objects, rabbits do not belong to the rodent order. They are part of the order Lagomorphs. Lagomorphs are divided into two families: Leporidaewhere hares and rabbits are found, and Ochotonidaerepresented by pikas, the most famous of which is Pikachu, from the cartoons.
Unlike rodents, which have one pair of upper incisors, lagomorphs have two pairs. The teeth of both groups continually grow and must be worn down. Therefore, for dental health, the consumption of fibrous materials such as hay and fresh vegetables is extremely necessary.
2. They have high fertility
Rabbits are placental mammals (they have a placenta) and have mammary glands. Females are larger than males, a characteristic of lagomorphs that rarely occurs in other mammals.
Very fertile, a female can have up to 40 cubs per year, with a gestation period of approximately 30 days. This prolificacy is one of the reasons they are associated with fertility and prosperity. Interestingly, when rabbits were introduced to Australia in the 19th century, their uncontrolled breeding became an agricultural pest, leading to the abandonment of many farms.
3. They are independent when it comes to hygiene
Rabbits They are quite independent when it comes to their hygiene and do not like dirty environments. They groom themselves, just like cats. Bathing is not recommended and can be harmful, except in cases of excessive dirt. In these cases we recommend using warm water and specific products.
Some of the faecal material they produce is known as “cecotrophs”, ingested as soon as it settles, as they still contain nutrients that can be used by rabbits. Therefore, it is common to see them eating their own feces.
4. They have a well-developed digestive system for vegetables
It is essential that tutors offer a balanced diet to rabbits, favoring dark vegetables and, optionally, pelleted feed (1% to 2% of the animal’s weight per day). Fruits and vegetables should be offered in moderation due to their high sugar content. Their digestive system is well developed to take advantage of the plant foods they consume.
5. They have keen senses and agility
In the wild, rabbits can run up to 45 km/h and jump up to one meter. To protect themselves, they remain alert to sounds. The lateral position of the eyes allows for 190° vision, although this prevents them from seeing directly into the nose. Additionally, their sensitive whiskers help them sense the environment.
Preparing the house for a rabbit
Before adopting a rabbitIt is essential that guardians seek the necessary care and adapt the home. “Protecting electrical cords and providing a safe space for the animal is essential. Creating an environment that allows the rabbit to exercise, use the litter box and have places to hide is important, as they are animals that require protection. Additionally, providing untreated wood and chewing hay helps wear down the teeth”, explains the vet.
Furthermore, cleaning the environment and castration, if the couple is made up of a male and a female, are recommended practices to avoid health problems and control reproduction.
By Camila Souza Crepaldi
Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
