Why Bunnies Are Not Good Easter Gifts
Bunnies — they’re soft, they’re tiny, they fit in an Easter basket — and yes, they’re genuinely adorable. Yet, every year, thousands of bunnies end up in shelters and rescues because once the novelty wears off, the reality of caring for a rabbit sets in. Let’s make sure you have the full picture before you make a decision that affects a living animal — and your household — for the next eight to 12 years.
The Easter Rabbit Problem
The data on how much Easter impacts the surrender and adoption of rabbits is mixed. However, there is some indication that many pet bunnies are abandoned or surrendered after Easter.
A 2024 study from the British Columbia SPCA found rabbit intakes in the shelter were highest in May, followed by March, with a notable influx of adolescent and stray rabbits — suggesting some pet parents may be releasing unwanted rabbits after Easter. Similarly, data from Shelter Animals Count shows a pattern of net increases in rabbit intakes during spring and early summer compared to the rest of the year.
On the other hand, another study found only a slight increase in rabbit intakes during May across four participating shelters — not enough to be statistically significant. And the most common reasons for relinquishment? Inability to care for them and housing issues — not behavioral problems.
Rabbits Do Make Great Pets
Rabbits make wonderful companions for a patient and prepared pet parent. Like cats, they’re indoor pets who require spaying or neutering and can be litter box trained. But what surprises most people about rabbits is that they’re not “easy” starter pets.
“Rabbits are fundamentally different from dogs and cats and therefore require an entirely different caregiving approach. We cannot simply apply what we know about cats and dogs to rabbits,” says Cindy Stutts, an educator for the House Rabbit Society and a rabbit parent herself.
Rabbits are prey animals in nature, which makes them more fragile and fearful than dogs or cats — both natural predators. “While they can be held and cuddled, bunnies may respond fearfully at first, perhaps with a sudden movement or harmless nip that could startle a small child and result in the bunny being dropped. For that reason, a rabbit may not be an ideal companion animal for kids under five,” Stutts says.
Like dogs and cats, rabbits are a big commitment. They live eight to 12 years and require a specialized diet, a safe environment to roam, and regular vet care from an exotic animal veterinarian — which can be harder to find and more expensive.
Why Giving a Bunny as a Gift Is a Risky Move
Because rabbits require so much dedication and resources, they really don’t make great gifts — or impulse buys. “It is important to use common sense and not downplay the long-term needs of a companion animal. When it comes to indulging a child — which is not always a bad thing — there’s a big difference between a candy treat and an animal with lifelong needs,” says Dr. Pia Salk, expert on the human-animal bond. “One of the most important and challenging lessons a parent must pass along is the benefit of making informed decisions rather than impulsive choices.”
Here’s what you might not know about rabbit care:
- Pet compatibility: Not all other pets are compatible with rabbits. Those with a high prey drive could scare a rabbit (rabbits can literally die of fright), wound, or even kill them.
- Daily care: Rabbits are high-maintenance companions. They need fresh green vegetables, pellets, water, and unlimited hay — fed twice daily. Their litter box must be cleaned every two days.
- Social and spatial needs: Rabbits are social and need either human or rabbit company, plus at least 4-by-4 feet of dedicated space (ideally a whole room) where they can safely exercise daily.
- Long-term planning: With lifespans of eight to 12 years, consider what happens when you move, get married, have kids — or if your children lose interest.
- Allergies and health: While people are rarely allergic to rabbits themselves, they may react to the hay rabbits eat — especially those with asthma, allergies, or hay fever.
- Costs: Budget at least $100 per month for food, bedding, and supplies alone. Veterinary care for rabbits is typically more expensive than for dogs or cats.
- Home safety: Rabbits love to chew — so electrical cords, computer cables, houseplants, and hazardous chemicals must all be bunny-proofed.
- Kid supervision: Children must always be supervised around rabbits. Bunnies are easily injured when lifted incorrectly and may scratch or bite when frightened.
Better Alternatives to Gifting a Live Rabbit
You can still celebrate a child’s love of bunnies without the work, time, and long-term commitment required when adopting a rabbit. Here are several thoughtful, low-pressure alternatives recommended by Cindy Stutts:
- Give a FurPetVo gift certificate: Never give any animal as a surprise gift — but a FurPetVo gift certificate for an adoption fee preserves the excitement while building in time to research, prepare, and make a real decision together.
- Foster a rabbit or bonded pair: Many dedicated rabbit rescues and general shelters need temporary foster homes. Some programs require as little as two weeks to help socialize a bunny awaiting adoption.
- Buy a plush bunny: Several animal welfare organizations sell high-quality stuffed rabbits as “virtual adoptions,” with proceeds directly supporting rabbits in need through FurPetVo and partner rescues.
- Attend a FurPetVo rabbit event: Before committing, visit a local FurPetVo adoption event to meet bunnies in person, ask questions, and learn firsthand about their care needs.
- Sponsor a rabbit: If you’re not ready to adopt, consider sponsoring (covering the adoption fee) for a rabbit waiting for their forever home — helping speed up placement and encouraging responsible adoption.
So, Should You Adopt a Rabbit?
Rabbits can be wonderful companions for the right household — you just need to know what you’re getting into. If you’ve done your research, assessed your lifestyle, and are fully prepared for the responsibility, start your search on furpetvo.com.
There are tons of rabbits sitting in shelters and rescues — all ready to kick off their next chapter with someone who truly understands them. No matter your living situation, experience level, or family makeup, there’s a rabbit out there who’s the perfect match — just waiting for the chance to meet you. On furpetvo.com, you can filter by age, size, temperament, and more to find your ideal companion.
Commonly Asked Questions
- Are rabbits good pets for kids? Rabbits don’t make good pets for young children because they’re fragile and easily startled. Older kids — with consistent adult guidance and support — can form respectful, rewarding bonds with rabbits.
- How long do rabbits live? Rabbits live much longer than many assume: typically eight to 12 years with proper care.
