DOES MY RABBIT ... ?

We have hoppin'-good answers to questions about your furry friend

NICK KRUG/THE CAPITAL-JOURNAL

Mini-Rex rabbit

By Heather Jones

THE CAPITAL-JOURNAL

What has long ears, fluffy tail and hops around? If you guessed a rabbit, you're right. Find out more about these animals.

What are the basics of a good house rabbit diet?

A rabbit's diet should be made up of good quality pellets, fresh hay (alfalfa, timothy or oat), water and fresh vegetables.

SOURCE: www.rabbit.org

What makes rabbits hop?

"They hop because their back legs are about three times the length of their front legs," said Carrie Stockton, registered veterinary technician, West Ridge Animal Hospital, 2147 S.W. Westport Drive. "If they took steps like cats and dogs do, they would walk around in circles."

Why are rabbits so fast?

"Because rabbits have a lot of muscles in their back legs," Stockton said.

How do I rabbit-proof my house?

1. Remove access to electrical cords, cables, and houseplants.

2. Provide rabbit toys that they can chew on. These can include paper towel rolls or an empty round Quaker Oats box. They love cardboard objects.

3. Litterbox train your rabbit. Rabbits can be easily be trained using kitty litter in a litterbox inside and outside the cage.

SOURCE: www.rabbitworld.com

Why do rabbits like to chew?

1. Rabbits chew to wear down their teeth, which grow continuously.

2. They need to explore the world through taste and texture.

3. They need to build strong jaw muscles.

4. It's fun.

SOURCE: www.rabbit.org

Here are some Web sites where you can learn more about your rabbit:

- www.geocities.com/Petsburgh/1451/behavior.html

- www.rabbit.org

- www.rabbitworld.com

3B

TUESDAY

NOVEMBER 2, 2004

Copyright 2004
Provided by ProQuest Information and Learning Company. All rights Reserved.