There is no denying that rabbits are probably one of the cutest pets that you can have. However, there are other factors that need to be considered when deciding to get a pet. Cost is definitely at the top of the list. Knowing what’s the cost of having a pet rabbit is the right thing to do as a responsible pet owner. You should know beforehand whether or not you can afford a pet rabbit. Here we will explore the possible expenses that you will encounter if you decide to purchase a pet bunny.
What is the average cost of a rabbit?
The price of a rabbit may vary for a number of reasons. Here we will discuss the relevant cost in US dollars. If you live in another part of the world, you can simply do the conversion math for your country. Some breeds are more expensive than others. The larger show bunnies like the Flemish giants can be quite pricey.
The distinction that occurs in the pedigree dog world also happens with rabbits as you may have guessed. There are champion bloodlines that true rabbit aficionados would be willing to pay a pretty penny for. Below is a price chart that will give you an idea of what your pet rabbit may cost depending on where you procure him or her from.
- Rare breeds – Prices vary depending on the breeder, but you can expect to pay within the range of $100 – 150.
- Pet store rabbits – These rabbits are definitely more affordable. They may run you about $20.00 – $40.00.
- Rescue rabbits – Sometimes rabbits are rescued from unfortunate circumstances. Some may have been abandoned and pet rescuers had to take them in. They are often looking for new homes for these bunnies. If you are on a budget and would like to go a good turn at the same time, this might be the perfect scenario for you. These bunnies might be even more shy than usual. So be prepared to be very patient with these rescued treasures. These pet rabbits can be bought for $5- 20. Rescue shelters also accept donations to assist in the upkeep of their facilities.
How much does it cost to feed a pet rabbit?
This expense is obviously going to be ongoing for the lifespan of your pet rabbit. So, it would certainly be prudent to know how much you will be spending on food for your bunny. Firstly, you need to know exactly what your pet rabbit’s diet consists of. So you can get an idea of the kind of the budget you are working with. The good news is in order for your pet rabbit to be healthy, 80% of her diet is supposed to be fresh grass or hay!
If you live in an area where you are lucky enough to have a garden, you may already have this readily available. The other 20 % of your rabbit’s diet is comprised of suitable vegetables, pellets and a selection of fruits that are low in sugar. You can see below the itemized cost of each food category:
- Hay – If you not lucky enough to have a grass or hay supply at home, you will need to buy hay for your pet rabbit. You can buy hay at 3 locations. You can get it at your local pet store, at a farm nearby or you can buy it online. They may sell you a bale at a wholesale price. The hay will be cheaper at the farm, but you will most likely have to buy in bulk. You will pay more for a small bag at a pet store or online. The costs discussed below are by and large for the month.
- A 10-pound bag of hay – $30-$40
- A bale of hay- $50-$70 (a bale will last you several months)
- These prices may vary depending on the quality of the hay and if the grass is organic, meaning that they didn’t use chemical weedicides or pesticides on the grass.
- Vegetables & Fruits – Pet rabbits require very little vegetables and fruits. You may spend between $5-$10 on vegetables and fruits. Again, the price may increase if you decide to buy organically grown.
- Pellets – Rabbit pellets are optional. If your pet rabbit is getting its minerals and vitamins from the veggies, you may not want to supplement it. However, if you prefer to have them on hand for variation, you can buy a bag that will last you a month or longer for anywhere between $4-$10 a bag.
So, food for your pet rabbit will most likely cost anywhere between $40-$50 per month.
How much does a rabbit cage or a hutch cost?
Your pet rabbit will need living space. It is important that it should be spacious enough for your bunny. If you plan to keep your rabbit outdoors, a hutch will most likely be your bunny abode of choice.
- Hutches are generally more expensive than cages. If you have to get one built, expect to spend about $150 for a basic hutch. If you want to pull out all the stops for a fancy hutch, you may spend as much as $250. Now, hutches are available online from providers like Amazon. Depending on the size, you can buy one for $75- $140. The good news is that you can make your hutch a do-it-yourself (DIY) project. If you like building, you may have materials, if not doing it yourself will eliminate the labor cost.
- Cages are ideal for indoor accommodation for rabbits. You can buy a cage at your local pet store or online. They usually cost between $50 and $100. Stainless steel and plastic are the combination of materials that usually make up a cage. Some may also come with accessories like a feeding bowl, hay tray, and a water bowl. They also have top and side doors for convenient access to your pet rabbit.
What is the average cost of rabbit grooming?
Most pet owners usually groom their rabbits themselves, but there are professional rabbit groomers that you can give your pet rabbit a professional trim and much more.
The services that a rabbit groomer can include the following:
- Brushes and Trims – Trim prices may vary based on how long your bunny’s hair is.
- Flea removal – This service involves flea powders and flea brushing. Some rabbit groomers also offer flea baths and flea collar fittings. However, we do not recommend fleas baths since baths can send your rabbit into shock. Flea powders should be vetted by your veterinarian since pet rabbits are sensitive to chemicals. Flea collars may also pose a health risk. To add to this, rabbits sometimes injure themselves trying to remove them.
- Nail trimming – Rabbit nails can become very overgrown if allowed to grow unchecked
- Scent gland cleaning – Pet rabbits have scent glands under their chins and around their anuses. You should try to clean these regularly.
- Ear cleaning – Groomers remove excess wax from their ears.
- Health Assessments – This may include a dental check, dietary and fitness plans and a general check-up.
Rabbit groomers usually offer packages. Here is an idea of what each package may entail and the cost.
- Short hair bunny package – A trim, scent gland clean, nail clip, and health check- $17- $20
- Long hair bunny package – Detangling, trim, scent gland clean, nail clip and health check- $25-$30
- Rear cleaning package – Rear wash, detangling, nail clip, scent gland clean and health check- $35-$40
Prices may vary depending on the service packages offered and on the region where you live.
How much can I expect to pay for veterinarian visits?
A trip to the veterinarian may cost anywhere between $30 to $60. The general recommendation is that recommended that you take your pet rabbit to the vet at least once a year. Of course, you may have to visit more often if your pet rabbit gets sick and needs emergency attention.
Are there any other costs I should be aware of?
There may be some ad-hoc costs that may crop up. For instance, you may have repairs to make to furniture that your pet rabbit may have chewed on. If you go on vacation, you may have to pay for boarding and care of your bunny while you are away. These are merely incidentals that will depend on the circumstances. You should also know that pet rabbits need stimulation and it is a good idea to buy them toys. These chew-toys may also help to minimize nibbling on your carpets and on your furniture.
As you can tell, you will have to spend a fair amount when you first acquire your pet rabbit. You will most likely have to buy your pet rabbit unless it was a gift. In addition, you will have to provide a home for your rabbit and you should seriously consider taking your bunny to the veterinarian to inoculate it and do a general check-up.
Your main monthly expenses would be hay, vegetables, and pellets. So once you think you can handle the above costs, you can go ahead and get a pet rabbit. They make awesome pets. You will not regret having one of these fluffy critters around.
