Rabbits should be fed twice a day in a heavy earthenware or stainless steel bowl (avoid plastic bowls as these can be eaten). They need approximately 150 grams of a rabbit mix or pellets plus some fresh vegetables. They must also have access to clean water which must be checked twice a day. Water bottles keep the water cleaner but a heavy earthenware or metal bowl may also be used. An average size rabbit drinks ½litre water per day.

Vegetables such as carrots, cabbage, spring greens and broccoli should be washed well to remove harmful pesticides. Lettuce should only be given in tiny amounts and fruits such as apples and bananas as an occasional treat. If you are collecting dandelions be careful where you pick them. Don’t pick them close to car fumes or dog faeces for example as they may have contaminated them and if your rabbit has a run in the garden don’t let them eat buttercups, garden bulbs or any other poisonous plant.

If a rabbit’s environment is kept clean and their food and water is fresh they are normally healthy animals. However, all rabbits should have annual vaccinations again myxomatosis and Viral Haemorraghic Disease (VHD). The first injection should be given at 10 weeks and a second 3-4 weeks later. Both diseases are highly infectious and may be carried by biting insects such as mosquitoes. Many breeders vaccinate their stock so check with them first.

Long haired rabbits require grooming and should be brushed regularly with a soft brush.

A rabbits nails need to be trimmed every 6 weeks. Care must be taken to avoid cutting the blood vessel in the centre of the nail. Consult a veterinary surgeon or another knowledgeable person for instructions.

If your rabbit has diarrhoea you should not give any green food but increase the amount off hay you feed. If the diarrhoea persists for more than 24 hours you should consult your vet. A vet should also be consulted if you notice that your rabbit has difficulty in breathing, or has a runny nose , any lumps or swelling, has excessive hair loss or shows any behavioural changes such as tilting it’s head to one side, as these may all be signs of serious health problems.