The rabbit is the most popular of all the small mammals kept as pets, thanks to its friendly nature. An ever-increasing range of breeds and colour varieties, many of which are likely to be on view at shows, has served to enhance their appeal both to breeders and pet-seekers. Rabbits have also proved to be very adaptable pets, with individuals settling well either in a outdoor hutch or as house rabbits in the home.

At first, rabbits were kept as a source of food, in large outdoor enclosures. It is still unclear when they were first brought to northern Europe, they may have been originally introduced by the invading Roman armies, but there is no evidence of an established wild population until after 1066. Rabbits were originally valued for their fur and source of meat, and it was not until the late 1800's that they became popular with breeders as pets.

When the killer viral disease, Myxomatosis, hit in the 1950's the puplic's attitude to the rabbit meat changed. As a result of changing perceptions, the rabbit has evolved into the most popular of all small animal pets. There are now more than 200 breeds in existence, some of which are very rare. The more popular breeds such as dutch, lop-eared, lion head and rex are more commonley available.

All breeds of rabbits make appealing pets, although the long haired angora need to be groomed on a daily basis. I would start out witha youngster that is approximately 9-10 weeks old, at this age they are completely independent, but are still young enough to be tamed easily.A rabbit will usually live for between 6 and 8 years. Before buying a rabbit, always check its condition. The ears should be clean and clear of scabs, which can indicate an ear mite infestation. The eyes should be free from discharge, as should the nose. It is also very important to part the lips so you can check the incisor teeth. If these are misaligned you will need to have them trimmed back regulary throughout the rabbits life, my advice is don't buy if the teeth are misaligned.

Rabbits can either be housed in the home or in a snug, draft proof hutch outside. House rabbits can be trained very easily to do their business in a cat litter tray, you just make sure you put a tray in the cage(in the corner) and when they come out you could bring it out where the rabbit can see it. The rabbit is very clean in that respect they use the same place for urinating all the time. You do need to watch out for cables, rabbits have a tendency to chew through them.

Feeding a rabbit is one of the most important aspects of its care as they can be prone to digestive upsets. There are many different types of food on the market, most mixes contain a variety of cereals and pellets. Fresh foods must be introduced slowly into their diet, probably giving fresh food 3-4 times a week in small amounts. Ideal fresh foods are dandelion leaves, grass, carrots and cabbage. Mine also enjoy apples, brocolli and cauliflower, also the occasional bit of dry toast.

A rabbits hutch should be cleaned out once a week but the toilet area to be cleaned out daily. They need clean water daily and also need to have theirs claws trimmed every once in a while. You can take the rabbit to a vet to get this done or buy the clippers from a pet shop and do it urself, you just clip to where the red vein is making sure you take a bit off at a time.

Rabbits do make an ideal first pet, they are relatively easy to look after and they can be quite alot of fun! Mine like to play football, be careful of low walls/fences they are very good jumpers!