One of the most popular pets, rabbits arguably make for the most adorable house pets. Unfortunately, not much is known about these little bunnies and about how to give them proper care. Have you been wondering, how long do rabbits live? All your questions about your little bunny’s lifespan and how to care for them are answered in this article.
Rabbits Life Span
Before you get yourself a bunny, you need to remember: they’re prey animals. This means they can be hunted easily by other animals, and that includes other pets you could have too!
Now, to answer your question how long do rabbits live, here’s what you need to know.
The lifespan of your rabbit depends on what breed they are and where they live.
Domestic Rabbits
Domestic rabbits tend to live the longest compared to other rabbits. After the 20th century, rabbits have been among the top choices for pets across American homes.
According to PetMD, domesticated bunnies usually live between 8-12 years.
Did you know, the oldest recorded domestic rabbit was Mick, the Agouti rabbit, who turned 16 in February 2019?
Wild Rabbits
Rabbits that live outside and are uncared for are, unfortunately, exposed to the constant danger of being preyed on.
As all of the energy and time of wild rabbits goes into fending for themselves, their lifespan is generally just 2-3 years.
Their position in the food cycle greatly reduces their lifespan as compared to that of domestic rabbits. Wild rabbits are also at a higher risk of being affected by various diseases.
The Lifespan Of Different Kinds Of Rabbits
While the average lifespan is generally considered to be somewhere between five to ten years for pet rabbits, there are certain breeds that are known to live longer.
There are over 300 domestic rabbit breeds that exist across homes in the US. Here’s a list of a few well-known breeds and their lifespans.
#1. Angora: 7-12 years
#2. Mini Lop: 7-14 years
Image source: Pinterest
#3. Flemish Giant: 5-7 years
Image source: Pinterest
#4. Giant Angora: 7-12 years
Image source: Pinterest
#5. American Sable: 5-8 years
Image source: Pinterest
#6. Lionhead: 7-10 years
Image source: Pinterest
#7. Polish: 5-6 years
Image source: Pinterest
#8. Britannia: 5-8 years
Image source: Pinterest
What Do Rabbits Usually Die From?
Rabbits are quite fragile.
They can be preyed on quite easily if left unattended. They also tend to develop illnesses quickly. If you own a pet rabbit, you’re going to have to look out for a few things that can escalate from a minor problem to a fatal issue
#1. Myxomatosis
Image source: Pinterest
This is a flea and mosquito-borne disease that your pet bunny can contract when they spend time outside.
The symptoms of this illness are swelling and eye discharge. It is best to maintain rabbits as indoor pets or make sure they have adequate protection from insects while they play outside.
#2. Overgrown Teeth
Image source: Pinterest
Rabbits can chew, chew, and chew their way through anything if they aren’t given enough things to gnaw on.
If they don’t have adequate objects to chew on, their teeth can overgrow and become pointy. This will hurt their mouth and be potentially deadly in the long run as they stop eating.
Drop by your vet if you suspect that your rabbit’s teeth are longer than they’re supposed to be.
#3. Uterine Tumor
Female rabbits are, unfortunately, prone to getting tumors in their uterus if they aren’t spayed. They could even develop life-threatening cancer.
If you haven’t spayed your rabbit yet, book an appointment with your pet doctor immediately.
#4. Snuffles
If you aren’t cleaning your bunny’s living area properly, they can develop pasteurellosis, commonly known as snuffles.
While this may appear like a common cold, it is, in fact, a bacterial infection that causes ear infections. Consult your vet and give your bunny the antibiotics they need.
#5. Gastrointestinal Stasis
Image source: Pinterest
If your pet rabbit’s gut bacteria is altered, its digestion can slow down.
This can result from various factors like dehydration, stress, not eating enough fiber, etc. If you notice your rabbit not eating as much as they’re supposed to, please talk to your vet to rule out this possibility.
3 Factors That Determine a Rabbit’s Lifespan
#1. Size
Typically, small animals live longer compared to their larger counterparts. The same goes for rabbits as well.
Small domesticated rabbit breeds like Mini Rex, Mini Lop, English Angora, etc. have a decently long lifespan. Their size makes caring for them quite easier.
You could also ensure a long lifespan for a bigger rabbit by giving them ample space to run around in, the right diet, and a lot of attention.
#2. Breed
Image source: Pinterest
Mixed breeds tend to have overall better health and genetic makeup.
If your rabbit is a hybrid, there’s a great chance they’re going to face minimal health concerns and live a longer life!
#3. Diet
Rabbits require a nutrient-rich, varied diet. You need to make sure that you are fulfilling its dietary requirements. Consider talking to your vet to better understand what you can and cannot feed your rabbit.
How To Prolong Your Rabbit’s LifeSpan
#1. Spay and neuter your pet rabbit to avoid any health complications.
#2. Give them a lot of attention, including games and exercises, so they’re mentally stimulated and tire themselves out properly.
#3. Make sure they have a properly spaced enclosure where they can run around and play, filled with chew toys.
#4. Give them well-balanced, nutritious meals.
#5. Consult a vet who has enough experience with rabbits and other small animals.
#6. Train them to use their litter box and obey commands.
#7. Don’t let children around them for too long; rabbits hate being overwhelmed.
A Few Parting Words
Owning a pet rabbit can be an enriching and wholesome experience. You don’t have to overly worry with questions like “how long do rabbits live?” They can live for quite a long time if you’re a dedicated pet-parent willing to give them the care they need.
Pamper your little bunny, and watch them shower you with all their love!
