Domestic rabbits require commitment, compassion and creativity

Not many would deny rabbits are cute little furry creatures, and being undeniably adorable has made the domestic or European rabbit a popular pet worldwide. But bringing home a bunny isn't as simple as going thump-thump-thump.

'People see that rabbits are easy pets to have, especially for children,' says animal behaviourist and veterinarian Cynthia Smillie at Animal Behaviour Veterinary Practice.

'It's also a good way of introducing pets into the family, but not an easy option at all. A rabbit isn't a little furry thing that you stick in a cage.'

The veterinarian adds Thumpers are friendly, curious and intelligent animals that usually live from seven to 10 years, with some breeds living up to 15 years. 'It's a commitment - a long-lived animal not like a gerbil or guinea pig. It's something you really do have to think about before you get one,' asserts Smillie.

According to Smillie, many owners don't realise the commitment involved in caring for a rabbit. 'Rabbits become quickly abandoned for much of the same reasons as other animals - the cost of time and children lose interest pretty quickly,' she says. 'Rabbits can also have a number of behavioural problems that people don't realise.'

As rabbits are a prey species, hunted and eaten by a slew of predators in the wild, these long-eared animals possess acute senses in their eyes, ears and nose, and they are 'hard-wired to respond in a fearful way.'