How Long Do Rabbits Live As Pets?

Rabbits are popular pets, and their lifespans have increased throughout time, thanks in part to the high level of care provided by their owners. We all know that a variety of factors can influence a pet's longevity, and rabbits are no different.

Rabbits in Domestication has a long and illustrious history.

Wild cottontail rabbits in your yard are not the same as domesticated pet rabbits. Pet rabbits are known as Oryctolagus cuniculus, while wild rabbits are known as Lepus sylvaticus. Even though they are near relatives and belong to the same family, domestic rabbits and wild rabbits are technically separate species.

Rabbits have been used for food and fur throughout history, but they have also been kept as pets since the 19th century. Rabbits became more popular in homes across America in the late twentieth century, and their popularity has only grown since then. As more people became aware of the charming characteristics of pet rabbits, their care improved, resulting in a longer lifespan for house rabbits.

Rabbit Lifespan and Breeds

While the typical lifespan of a pet rabbit is around 5-10 years, some rabbit breeds are known to live longer than others. Miniature or dwarf rabbit breeds, like dogs, tend to live longer than gigantic ones. Dwarf rabbits, micro lops, and other small rabbits live to be double digits, whereas huge varieties such as French lops and Flemish giants do not.

Nutrition and Lifespan of Rabbits

A rabbit, like any other species, has distinct nutritional needs, and we know that what we feed our pet bunnies has a direct impact on how long they live. Nutrition is linked to a rabbit's entire health, and if it isn't getting enough vitamins, minerals, fiber, and other elements in its diet, it won't be healthy and thus won't live as long.

A pet rabbit's diet should consist of special pelted rabbit meals, hay, and vegetables. Some snacks and fruits can be given in moderation, but an unhealthy rabbit will result from an uneven diet. Some individuals just feed their rabbits pet store pellets, which may be deficient in the vitamins and minerals that a rabbit needs.

Health and Lifespan of Rabbits

Many factors influence your rabbit's health, in addition to the food you feed it. Rabbits can get sick or obtain parasites, and if these problems aren't addressed, they might decrease your rabbit's life. Washing your hands before and after touching your rabbit, as well as cleaning the cage on a regular basis, are helpful strategies to keep your rabbit healthy. Regular visits to your veterinarian can also help you detect any problems that your rabbit may be developing before it's too late.

Your rabbit's lifespan can be extended by spaying or neutering it.

1 Male rabbits can get testicular cancer, whereas female rabbits are susceptible to breast and uterine tumors. By spaying or neutering your rabbit, you dramatically reduce the chances of it having cancer and, as a result, boost its chances of living a long life.

The World's Oldest Rabbit

The oldest rabbit to ever live, according to Guinness World Records, was a wild-born rabbit named Flopsy, who died at the age of slightly more than 18 years. Flopsy was captured in Australia in 1964 and lived in Longford, Tasmania, with his owner, L.B. Walker. Most rabbits don't live to be ten years old, so having a teen bunny is quite an accomplishment as a pet owner.