Warning: don't make a hot cross bunny this Easter

21/03/2008

At this time of year when the ‘Easter bunny’ brings delight to children all over the country, The Blue Cross is urging rabbit owners to make sure they have a happy bunny, too.

Despite being one of the most popular British pets, rabbits are also one of the most misunderstood, according to Blue Cross animal behaviourist Julie Bedford. The charity has introduced rabbit behaviour sessions for staff at its adoption centres to help ensure a happy stay for homeless bunnies while they wait to find new homes.

Julie said: "Rabbits make popular pets because they are often very gentle and relatively easy to look after. But people don’t realise that they are very sensitive creatures who rarely express themselves outwardly. As a prey animal, a rabbit’s instinct is to be still and quiet when under threat. In a domestic environment, this behaviour could be a sign of pain or even depression."

The Blue Cross has outlined five simple steps for hoppy bunnies this Easter:

· Rabbits need the company of other rabbits as they can get very lonely on their own. But make sure they’re neutered or they could fight.

· Rabbits need space to run around and stretch their back legs so they need a hutch where they can stand upright and access to a large run. Living in a confined space can cause physical discomfort and make for an unhappy bunny.

· Female rabbits should be neutered to prevent unwanted babies and protect them from a common form of uterine cancer.

· Some rabbits can be frightened of being picked up and can bite or kick. But they love interacting with humans at their own level and will often climb onto a cosy warm lap.

· Happy bunnies like to nibble on hay throughout the day and should have just a small amount of rabbit food mix. A bad diet with insufficient hay can lead to discomfort from gut and teeth problems.

Julie Bedford added: "Rabbits can make wonderful pets but like all animals they are a big commitment. It’s important that people do their research before getting one to make sure they understand their needs. If you’re not sure, it might be best to stick to a chocolate bunny this Easter."

To find out more essential advice about caring for rabbits and other pets, visit the Pet Knowledge centre at www.allaboutpets.org.uk, a new online community run by The Blue Cross.

ENDS
Notes to Editors

· Easter bunny images have been sent to your picture desk, reference 'Blue Cross Easter bunny'.

· Last year, 152 homeless or unwanted rabbits were taken in by The Blue Cross and 151 were successfully rehomed.

· The Blue Cross animal charity provides practical support, information and advice for pet and horse owners. Through its network of small animal and equine adoption centres it rehomes thousands of animals each year. Its hospitals provide veterinary care for the pets of people who cannot afford private vets' fees.

· For more information, please visit www.bluecross.org.uk

Media contact
Laura Dobson or Louise Lee on 020 7932 4060 or 07917 132 698 (out of hours)