Six Fascinating Facts About Rabbits

Rabbits are wonderful creatures, with adorable ears, faces, and paws. Many people assume rabbits are all the same, but they are unique, complex, and enchanting animals. Beyond the twitchy nose and soft fur, there are many delightful and interesting secrets to uncover about rabbits. Here are six fascinating facts:

They have distinct personalities

Gentle and cuddly, or feisty and opinionated, bunnies each have their own unique and individual personality. For example, some rabbits like to be patted, while others are very independent. Long-time rabbit owners know that each domestic rabbit has its own personality that shapes the way they interact with their owners.

To read more on this story, click here: Six Fascinating Facts About Rabbits

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Maybe It’s Time to Take Animal Feelings Seriously

Dogs can read human emotions. So, it appears, can horses. Whales have regional accents. Ravens have demonstrated that they might be able to guess at the thoughts of other ravens — something scientists call “theory of mind,” which has long been considered a uniquely human ability. All of these findings have been published within the past several weeks, and taken together they suggest that many of the traits and abilities we believe are “uniquely human” are, in fact, not so unique to us.

To read more on this story, click here: Maybe It’s Time to Take Animal Feelings Seriously

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Pet Ownership Statistics by State, And So Much More (Updated 2020)

If you’re a pet owner, it should be no secret that Americans are crazy about their pets. The word on the street is that ownership has increased in recent years and people are spending more time and money on their pets than ever before. But what do the numbers say?

Here, we’ll explore where pet ownership and the pet population stand in the U.S. and how it differs across states and demographics. (If you're interested in facisinating statistical data from pet owners who are specifically interested in pet insurance, check out our free 2019-2020 report covering breeds, pre-existing conditions, pet names, and more.)

To read more on this story, click here: Pet Ownership Statistics by State, And So Much More (Updated 2020)

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Jerboas as Pets: Feeding, Housing, and Personality

Jerboas are small rodents with a rather bizarre-looking appearance that are rarely kept as pets. They are distinctive in appearance and highly sought after because they are one of the few mammals that are bipedal, maneuvering with a hopping motion in a similar fashion to kangaroos, as well as sprinting like a road runner. Their particularly thin legs and tiny size make this mode of locomotion appear even stranger; therefore jerboas are fascinating to observe in captivity.

Unfortunately, they aren’t readily available due to two important factors: they are extremely hard to breed in captivity and there is a restriction on the importation of African rodents (in the United States).

To read more on this story, click here: Jerboas as Pets: Feeding, Housing, and Personality

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This Tiny Animal Looks Like A Mix Between A Mouse, A Rabbit, A Pig, And A Kangaroo And It’s Absolutely Adorable

Our Mother Nature is often quite weird and the little long-eared jerboa is the perfect example of that. I mean, just look at this tiny creature. This adorable animal has a mouse-like body, rabbit-like ears, a pig’s snout, and back legs that look like a miniature model of a kangaroo’s. Seriously, what kind of Pokemon is it? Never heard of it.

The long-eared jerboa is so mysterious, so weird, and so cute that people on the interwebs seem to be absolutely in love with this little creature.

The long-eared jerboa looks like a cross between a mouse, a rabbit, a pig, and a kangaroo

To read more on this story, click here: This Tiny Animal Looks Like A Mix Between A Mouse, A Rabbit, A Pig, And A Kangaroo And It’s Absolutely Adorable

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Rabbit: Species Profile

Characteristics, Housing, Diet, and Other Information

Rabbits are very active and playful animals that are also very social; they will form a close bond with other rabbits and even with people. As long as you know what to expect from a pet rabbit, they have the potential to be wonderful pets. The ideal owner for a pet rabbit is an individual or family with the time and space to dedicate to an active pet that enjoys cuddling and playing and requires a bit of maintenance. Whether it involves daily interaction with owners or other rabbits, these animals require a lot of interaction. Rabbits come in many different breeds—lionhead, mini lop, mini rex, rex, lop, Dutch, English spot, and hotot, to name a few—and some can even be raised as show animals.

To read more on this story, click here: Rabbit: Species Profile

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10 Of The Most Popular Pets In The US That Aren't Cats Or Dogs

It makes sense to assume that dogs and cats are the most common pets in the United States; after all, they make up a significant number of our favorite animal accounts on Instagram, attracting thousands of followers each day and taking over social media feeds.

While it would seem that something equally as soft and cuddly would come in as third runner-up, the next most popular pet in the US isn’t quite what you’d expect. Below are the most popular pets in America besides cats and dogs.

To read more on this story, click here: 10 Of The Most Popular Pets In The US That Aren't Cats Or Dogs

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The Best Unusual Pets For Families That Are Easy To Care For

When a dog or cat doesn't cut it for the little ones, these are your next best options for an unusual family pet.

Looking for the perfect pet that suits your lifestyle?

With increased apartment living, many Aussies are choosing an unusual pet over the traditional dog or cat - something the kids can easily look after but still love. And don’t forget that teaching your Norwegian Dwarf Rabbit to fetch is quite a conversation starter.

Here’s a list of my favourite - but unusual - family-friendly pets.

Want to join the family? Sign up to our Kidspot newsletter for more stories like this.

To read more on this story, click here: The Best Unusual Pets For Families That Are Easy To Care For

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These Common Household Foods Can Be Poisonous To Your Pets

(Meredith) -- It’s National Pet Poison Prevention Week and many pet owners may not be aware of all of the foods that can be dangerous to their cats and dogs.

Pet expert Haylee Bergeland from DailyPaws.com has some important information you should know to keep your pet happy and healthy.

Bergeland says that common pet poisons owners tend to forget are things like caffeine.

To read more on this story, click here: These Common Household Foods Can Be Poisonous To Your Pets

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A Complete Guide to the Best Rabbit Breeds

Rabbit breeds come in all shapes, sizes, colors, and personalities, which can make picking the right one overwhelming. The American Rabbit Breeders Association (ARBA) officially recognizes 50 unique breeds, ranging from the playful Californian rabbit to the adorable English Lop. If you’re considering adopting a bunny, we have everything you need to know to help find the perfect companion.

To read more on this story, click here: A Complete Guide to the Best Rabbit Breeds

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How to Groom Your Rabbit: A Complete Guide

What You'll Learn About Rabbit Care

Why grooming is necessary

Tools of the trade

Holding the animal correctly

A complete grooming routine

How to avoid incorrect grooming

Why a Routine Is Necessary

Long-haired bunnies need more attention to keep their coats in top shape. Long coats also hide problems such as overgrown nails, skin issues and lumps. A grooming routine makes the animal look great and offers the chance for a medical check. Short-haired rabbits keep themselves clean and need less assistance. However, they also need a weekly appointment for brushing, nail and ear care.

In addition to grooming and health checks, the sessions serve as bonding. Most importantly, rabbits cannot cough up hairballs like a cat. Combing prevents hair from clogging their digestive system—and your house.

To read more on this story, click here: How to Groom Your Rabbit: A Complete Guide

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Anonymous Tip Leads To Rescue of 42 Battered Animals, Including 36 Dogs, from DC Home

 

WASHINGTON (ABC7) — A total of 42 animals, including 36 dogs and six rabbits, were rescued from a D.C. home Wednesday after an anonymous tip led to the discovery of alleged animal abuse, according to the Humane Rescue Alliance.

The critters were reportedly rescued from the 2900 block of Branch Avenue in Southeast D.C. by the HRA's Law Enforcement division.

To read more on this story, click here: Anonymous Tip Leads To Rescue of 42 Battered Animals, Including 36 Dogs, from DC Home

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The Most Common Rabbit Diseases

Rabbits are well-loved parts of many families that have the joy of caring for them. But unfortunately, and just like other pets, rabbits are prone to a variety of problems and diseases. Some diseases are more common than others and by being educated on these problems you may be able to prevent them or at least learn to recognize the signs and symptoms more quickly in order to get your rabbit help.


Rabbit Teeth Problems

Rabbits have 28 teeth that help them grind their food. These teeth, unlike those of a dog or cat, grow continuously throughout the life of your rabbit. Without proper items to help keep these teeth trimmed (like hay and safe wood) the teeth can end up becoming overgrown and prevent your rabbit from being able to eat.

Molar teeth (the teeth in the back of the mouth) can grow and create a bridge over the tongue which can inhibit chewing and swallowing. Teeth that become this overgrown can cause your rabbit to starve. 

Incisors teeth (the front teeth) will grow and start curling into the cheeks or other parts of your rabbit's mouth. This is very painful and can also cause your rabbit to stop eating.

Abscessed teeth can occur due to trauma or periodontal disease and are painful to your rabbit as well. These teeth need to be extracted in order to prevent the infection that is located around the tooth from spreading throughout your rabbit's body.

To read more on this story, click here: The Most Common Rabbit Diseases

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Deadly Rabbit Virus Spreads to Los Angeles County

A deadly virus targeting domestic and wild rabbits has been detected for the first time in Los Angeles County, public health officials said.

Rabbit Hemorrhagic Disease (RHDV2) was found in wild rabbits in Littlerock in the Antelope Valley and Juniper Hills in the foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains, the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health announced on Aug 4.

To read more on this story, click here: Deadly Rabbit Virus Spreads to Los Angeles County

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Reddit Has Suddenly Exploded With Photos of Dads Who Did Not Want Pets

You know a dad like this, or you’ve at least seen one on the internet, the kind of dad who adamantly refuses to have a pet and then once that cuddly fur ball is brought into the house, that pet becomes his best buddy. Sounds familiar, right? Well, the internet loves these dads, too. Reddit’s https://www.reddit.com/r/dadswhodidnotwantpets/community saw a 98% increase in traffic this week, according to a Reddit communications staffer, and it makes sense why.

To read more on this story, click here: Reddit Has Suddenly Exploded With Photos of Dads Who Did Not Want Pets

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Unicorns May Not Exist, But Did You Know That “Magical Rabbits” Do?

Unicorns may not exist, but did you know that “magical rabbits” do?

Okay, so they’re not really magical, but they’re certainly something special. “Magical rabbits” are also known as Ili Pika, and they are one of the most endangered species on the planet.

Pictures of them are exceptionally rare. In fact, the pictures seen in this post are the first images to surface of the elusive rabbits in 20 years.

Conservationist Weidong Li first discovered these cute animals in the 1980’s. The second time they were spotted was in the Tianshian mountains, located in the northwestern region of China.

The species was originally known as “Ochotona iliensis”, but Li changed its name in honor of his hometown. Sadly, the species population has plummeted even farther since they were first discovered.

Experts now estimate that there are fewer than 1,000 of these rabbits still alive.

Li feels a great responsibility to keep them safe, being as he was the person who discovered them in the first place. He’s said that he would feel very guilty if they went extinct on his watch. So he actually retired from his day job early in order to spend more of his time observing these creatures in their natural habitat.

But because of their rarity, it’s hard to establish any scientific data on them. What scientists do know definitively is that they are a member of the rabbit family, and there aren’t many of them left.

This is one of many issues that is blamed on global warming. Humans play a big part in the elimination of species in general, and this case is no different. We need to come together and make an effort to save the creatures of our planet.

Images of the Ili Pika have been released in order to raise some awareness about these special animals and their endangered status.

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Pet Allergies, Are You Allergic to Your Pet? - Do You Know the Symptoms?

What is pet dander?
Cats and dogs have pet dander. It is tiny flakes of dead skin that slough off the pet continuously. Breathing in pet dander is the number one reason that people have an allergic reaction to animals. The dander is hard to see on some animals, and on others it looks like a bad case of dandruff, and the animal smells even after a bath. When the dander combines with oil and dirt, it becomes a glue-like substance trapping the undercoat and causing the hair to turn into large wadded mats.

What are the most common causes for pet allergies?
Cat and dog Dander, or skin flakes, as well as their saliva and urine, can cause an allergic reaction such as: sneezing, wheezing, and running eyes and nose.

Both feathers and the droppings from birds, another common kind of pets, can increase the allergen exposure. Bird droppings can also be a source of bacteria, dust, fungi and mold. This also applies to the droppings of other caged pets, such as gerbils, hamsters and mice.

Animal hair is not considered to be a very significant allergen, however, the hair or fur can collect pollen, dust, mold, and other allergens. Although individual pets may produce more or less allergen, there is no relationship between the pet's hair length and allergen production. There is also no such thing as a non-allergenic breed.

Animal allergens are found mostly in homes where pets are present. What is surprising, however, is that these allergens are also found (in lesser amounts) in places where pets have never been present, such as schools, workplaces, and other public spaces. Since dander allergens are sticky, they can be brought to these places on the clothing of pet owners. Also, while dander on a smooth surface (such as a wall) can be easily wiped off, in soft materials, such as carpets, mattresses, upholstered furniture, and clothing, it can persist for long periods of time. That is why, unless special steps are taken, pet dander can remain in a home for up to six months after the pet has been removed.

Rabbit Allergy
Many people gets surprised when they first hear about rabbit allergy, it is something that they don’t even consider before buying a rabbit as a pet, however it is a type of allergy found in some homes.  Just like other types of animal allergies its origin is in the proteins found in the saliva and blood of the animal and not in the fur.

When the immune system is weak to fight these allergens, it enters into a defense mode, producing the infamous allergic reactions.  Watery eyes and nose dripping are used by the body to wash away the allergens.  This means that the body reacts to an attack, this attack by itself is not dangerous but it could be if the symptoms complicate.





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Animals That Shed and Tips on Removing Pet Hair from Furniture

I guess I was lucky. I never had this problem. My dogs where shih tzu, and shed very little.

My brother’s cat…now that’s a different story! The cat had his own chair…and you knew not to sit in it. I used to tease my brother and ask if he had two cats! He tried everything and finally got a hand vacuum cleaner that seemed to work for him.

When we think of pets that shed hair, we think of dogs and cats.

Dogs:
Shedding is a natural process for a dog. Shedding allows a new coat to come in, however, it can be different amongst different breeds of dogs, some with a longer coat may shed more often, while some with a shorter coat may shed little. The point of shedding is to get rid of the current fur coat and allow a new one to grow in its place. It is important that dogs shed because it keeps the hair healthy, when a new coat comes through it is getting rid of the old coat which usually contains dirt and is generally quite unhealthy.

Cats:
This is a normal event in the life of a cat and it is largely influenced by daylight. There is a word for this phenomenon: photoperiod. The number of hours a cat is exposed to sunlight in a day (photoperiod) triggers the shedding process. It is more noticeable in outdoor cats in the spring and fall.

Did you know that Chinchillas, Rabbits and Horses shed?

Chinchillas - All chinchillas shed year-round, with increased fur loss during spring and summers. Shedding hair tends to drop off chinchillas with thinner coats, so they only require infrequent combing.

Rabbits - Rabbits shed every 3 months. Every alternate time they'll have a light shedding that may not be very noticeable. Next they'll have a heavy shedding that you will not be able to escape. Bald spots on rabbits are quite common when they are shedding.

Horses - Just like dogs and other animals, horses shed because of temperature change. Horses shed so that their body feels comfortable during the hot months.

Tips to get hair off of furniture:

• Pet hair clings to furnishing because of static electricity, so you want to break the static bond.

• Good Housekeeping says a handy tool to get hair off upholstered furniture: rubber gloves. Put on a clean pair, dampen, and run your hands over cushions (for silk, use dry gloves).

• Heloise says, We love our messy and oh-so hairy pets. They seem to leave hair everywhere, mainly on our furniture. You can prevent much of this by brushing/combing and washing pets regularly. However, if you see hairy remains on your couch or chairs, here are several ways to remove it. Wipe a lightly dampened clean sponge over it to lift off. You also can swipe the rubber bottom (sole) of a tennis sneaker to lift up hair or roll a couple of lengths of tape around your hand (sticky side out) to pick up small amounts of hair.

• Here is a trick that I heard of, but have never tried. Lightly spray water on the furniture to break the static cling, then vacuum. Not too much, you don’t want to soak your vacuum cleaner bag.

• Use a damp sponge and the hair pulls right off. You have to make sure it is not really wet.

• If it's not an extreme amount... I've used tape...real good sticky tape... wrap it around your hand with the sticky side "out"...and start patting the furniture.... tape picks up the animal hair! Might have to use this a few times to get it all... Also a good "fun" way to get the kids to help!

• Vacuum, vacuum vacuum - at least 2 times a day. 

All shedding problems can be helped by regular grooming. If you think your animal is shedding excessively, take him or her to the vet. It can be a symptom of some underlying health problem, such as a thyroid imbalance.

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Are You Thinking About Getting A Rabbit As A Pet?

Are you thinking about getting a rabbit as a pet? The first thing that you must understand is that a rabbit is nothing like a cat or a dog.

Rabbits aren't for everyone, but make loving pets. You will need to spend time with them every day. If you leave them alone with only other rabbits for company, some tend not like human attention. You will need to make your home rabbit friendly.

Take time to think about what you are getting into. While they are cute in the pet store, you must look past the cuteness and consider the care. Do some research before making your decision.

Things To Think About Before Getting A Rabbit As A Pet:

1. Some have a very long life-span. Most live between 7 – 10 years, and some into their teens. Are you
prepared to devote this time?

2. They are very messy and can be destructive, sometimes burrowing into mattresses and furniture.

3. Pretty independent and could do without human interaction rabbits do not like to be picked up. The act of bending over them and grabbing them by their ribs to pick them up is very similar to being picked up by a hawk and is very scary to them. Please read the article below called, “Rabbit References”, it will tell you the proper way to pick up a rabbit.

4. They are prone to dental problems, as their teeth grow constantly during their life.

5. Male rabbits, especially make the best pets because they are more attentive and affectionate. They make the best pets for kids because they are interactive, curious, and easy to handle.

6. When a female rabbit reaches sexual maturity, she may begin to view her cage as her potential nesting space and become protective of it. A female rabbit that feels nature urging her to breed can become very testy.

7. Rabbits should always be kept inside. Their body temperature rises far more quickly than that of many other animals, and is already at a higher average than other animals. It is necessary to make sure that the area they are in is appropriately heated or cooled as warranted by the environmental conditions around it.

8. You should not leave them in the sun for long periods of time. Seems obvious, but if you put it in a cage near a window, make sure you provide some shade.

9. Vet visits are expensive for rabbits as compared to cats and dogs. You will need to find a good vet who has experience with rabbits.

10. A rabbit screaming is a sign that the rabbit perceives itself to be in a life or death situation.

11. Rabbits can be trained to use a litter box and some can learn to come when called.

Fun Facts About Rabbits and Hares:

A rabbit is different from a hare. A hare is usually born with hair and its eyes open. While a rabbit is born with no hair and its eyes closed.

Did you know that baby rabbits are called kits or kittens?

Baby hares are born above ground with fur and open eyes. They are called leverets. While rabbits are born underground, blind and naked.

The word Bunny is a nickname for rabbits. It comes from the word "coney" (pronounced like "honey"), which used to be the name for a rabbit. The word "rabbit" used to be the name for a kitten (that is, a baby "coney").

Pet rabbits kept indoors are referred to as house rabbits. House rabbits typically have an indoor pen or cage and a rabbit-safe place to run and exercise, such as an exercise pen.

A rabbit will teach you a new way of looking at the world! Although they can be ornery at times, rabbits are wonderful, fun, and loving companions.

Are you the right kind of person to live with a rabbit? 

If you have decided to get a rabbit as a pet, would you please consider checking your local animal shelter. They often have rabbits that are looking for a forever home!


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How to Treat Ear Mites in Rabbits

Rabbits are susceptible to infection by a small oval shaped mite called Psoroptes cuniculi, which has a preference for ears. Rabbits can pick up infection when they contact eggs in hay, straw, or wood chip bedding.[1] Although the mites live in the ear, if the infection is not treated, it can spread to other parts of the body, such as the paws, head, neck, abdomen, or around the anus.[2] Learn how to treat ear mites so you can keep your rabbit healthy.


1- Clean everything the rabbit has touched. Ear mites are very contagious. Because of this, everything the rabbit comes into contact with should be cleaned and disinfected in case they harbor mites or mite eggs.[3]

Dispose of all bedding materials and provide fresh bedding every day until the mites have been gotten rid of completely.

Scrub and disinfect the hutch and run. Make sure to clean it often while your rabbit has the infection.

Ear mites are highly infectious to other rabbits and can spread by direct contact. Therefore, all the rabbits in the household should be treated, too.

To read more on this story, click here: How to Treat Ear Mites in Rabbits

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