Cohabitation and reproduction
Rabbits are unique creatures that can be excellent companions for humans. They are intelligent, social and have an interesting personality. Although they can live alone, rabbits often do better when they have a companion to share their lives with. This is where the cohabitation of rabbits comes into play.
In this article, we'll discuss the benefits of living with a rabbit and what you need to know before welcoming one into your home. So if you are considering getting a rabbit, keep reading!
COHABITATION
Rabbits generally prefer to live in pairs or colonies rather than alone. It is therefore preferable to adopt at least two rabbits. However, to reduce the risk of clashes, the ideal couple is made up of a rabbit and a female rabbit who are both sterilized. Indeed, 2 males or 2 females can fight very fiercely and even kill each other.
Rabbits cannot coexist with ferrets and rats. They are predators and will mercilessly kill the rabbit immediately. Rabbits live very well with cats and dogs, but certain dog breeds should be excluded.
REPRODUCTION
Rabbits can have one litter per month. They come into heat at the simple contact of the male. Please do not breed your rabbits: there are already too many abandoned rabbits.
Here are the contact details for the two veterinary clinics in the Quebec region that offer rabbit care and sterilization services:
Dr. Coeuret, Dr. Bradette, Dr. Dubé, Dr. Rainville and Dr. Leblanc
Ormière Veterinary Hospital
9794 boul. l’Ormière Loretteville, 418 840-0444
Dr. Chen
Jacques-Cartier veterinary clinic
4600 route de Fossambault, Ste-Catherine, 418 875-2885
ADOPTION
Ideally, adopting a rabbit should be done from a shelter. As we can read on the website of the Order of Veterinary Doctors of Quebec, the problem of overpopulation is very real. In addition, rabbits raised en masse in outdoor cages are often sick (respiratory infections) and parasitized (intestinal parasites, ear mites and parasites in the coat). Adopting an adult rabbit has its advantages! His character is defined and he is calmer. There are still rabbits in shelters if you prefer to adopt a younger rabbit.
Easter is the worst time to buy a rabbit! Be aware that young ones are often weaned too young in order to meet the strong market demand during this period. Many Easter bunnies are then abandoned in shelters before reaching the age of one.
For a wealth of useful information on rabbits regarding diet, behavior, environment, health and any other subject, consult the Marguerite&Cie website and the website of the Order of Veterinary Doctors of Quebec . Also, consult here a very complete section from our partner concerning the effects of the cage on the rabbit.
Sources: Ormière Veterinary Hospital and Order of Veterinary Physicians of Quebec.