Top Reasons Why Wild Rabbits Don’t Make Good Pets
If you are thinking of allowing your homestead or pet rabbits to mix and mingle with a wild rabbit, or are seriously considering trying to domesticate a wild rabbit, think again!
Wild rabbits do not make good pets or homestead animals and should never be kept as such. In this post we will touch on just why wild rabbits don’t make good pets but domesticated rabbits do, and the key difference between the two.
Wild Rabbits Vs. Domesticated Rabbits
The contrast between wild rabbits and domesticated rabbits is significant, primarily due to their lifestyles and upbringing.
Wild rabbits, also known as cottontail rabbits, are adapted to living in the wild. This means they possess a keen sense of survival, honed by centuries of evolution.
Domesticated rabbits, on the other hand, have been bred over generations for specific traits and have become accustomed to living alongside humans.
As such, domesticated rabbits have lost touch with many survival instincts and skills, exhibit a wider range of personalities (aren’t always so timid), and tend to be more sociable and accepting of human interactions.
Without exception, wild rabbits have a more cautious and skittish nature, as their survival depends on avoiding predators. Their behaviors are geared towards constant vigilance, quick escapes, and self-sufficiency.
There was a wild rabbit that would hang around our homestead rabbit hutches for years, but not once did it put its guard down or let me within five feet of it! Wild rabbits experience a stronger fear and self-preservation instinct than their domestic counterparts.
So, Do Wild Rabbits Make Good Pets?
The question of whether wild rabbits make good pets is a complex one. While wild rabbits possess a certain allure due to their natural beauty and mystique, they are not typically well-suited to life as domestic companions.
Wild rabbits have instincts that are difficult, if not impossible, to overcome in a household setting. As stated, they are even more fearful of humans than domestic bunnies!
To better understand how this alone would make it impossible to raise a wild rabbit as a pet, remember that a domestic rabbit raised by humans can go into deadly shock even in a setting they grew up in if they experience enough stress.
Now think about a predator paranoid wild rabbit experiencing an unknown environment with new stimulants; they would most likely experience a heart attack!
Can Cottontail Rabbits Be Domesticated
Cottontail rabbits, commonly found in North America, belong to the wild rabbit category. We would never recommend trying to domesticate a cottontail. These rabbits are wired to thrive in their natural habitat, and their natural behaviors do not easily translate to a domestic setting.
Additionally, many states and regions have regulations regarding the ownership of wild animals, including cottontail rabbits, due to concerns about their welfare and the potential ecological impact.
Check with your state’s Fish and Wildlife Service or State Game Commission for more info on the laws that protect wild rabbits from domestication.
Can You Keep A Wild Baby Rabbit As A Pet
It’s not uncommon to come across a seemingly abandoned baby wild rabbit.
However, it’s important to resist the urge to take it in as a pet. Baby rabbits, known as kits, require specialized care as they are born completely blind, deaf, and hairless.
If you see what you think is a wild rabbit nest, we encourage you to leave it alone and allow the mother rabbit to tend to her kits in peace.
Taking a baby rabbit from its nest, or bringing a supposedly abandoned rabbit kit inside is a big no! Raising a wild baby rabbit without the proper knowledge and resources can lead to serious health issues, a stressed life, and often premature death.
If you find a wild baby rabbit, it’s best to contact a local wildlife rehabilitation center and your local vet for best guidance on how to proceed.
What To Do With A Wild Bunny Rabbit
If you encounter a wild rabbit or rabbit nest, it’s essential to prioritize their well-being and follow responsible actions:
- Observe from a Distance: It’s normal for a mother rabbit to leave her nest for extended periods. Avoid disturbing the nest and keep your distance! Do not examine or touch the nest or the kits.
- Contact Professionals: If you find a rabbit in distress, especially a baby rabbit, contact a local wildlife rehabilitator or animal rescue organization. These experts are trained to provide appropriate care and determine the best course of action!
- Educate Others: Spread awareness about the importance of leaving wild rabbits in their natural habitat and not attempting to keep them as pets. Encourage responsible wildlife interactions through the way you act.
Frequently Asked Questions Related To Wild Rabbits As Pets
Do Wild Bunnies Carry Diseases?
Yes, wild rabbits carry diseases. Most common in wild rabbits are worms, parasites, and deadly viral and bacterial diseases such as rabbit hemorrhagic disease.
The risk of infection from wild rabbits is why we ensure our domestic rabbits never mingle in close proximity to local wild bunnies.
Final Thoughts On Wild Rabbit As A Pet
While the idea of having a wild rabbit as a pet might seem appealing, it’s crucial to consider the well-being of the animal.
If you want to experience raising and bonding with a rabbit, choose a domesticated bunny!
Domesticated rabbits, which have been bred over generations for companionship, are a more suitable choice for those seeking a rabbit companion or rabbit raising experience.
Finally, if you encounter a wild rabbit in need, do not assume you know how to best help; always defer to experts who can provide the proper care and guidance for the animal’s welfare.