Rabbit Care Checklist

A rabbit care checklist covering housing, a hay-based diet, litter, grooming and health.

Published July 14, 2026

Housing & Space

Provide a large enclosure or rabbit-proofed pen
Allow daily time to run and stretch in a safe area
Rabbits need exercise well beyond a small hutch
Add a hideout or covered area for security
Keep housing out of extreme heat, cold and drafts
Use solid flooring or soft surfaces to protect feet

Diet

Offer unlimited fresh grass hay at all times
Provide a variety of rabbit-safe leafy greens daily
Give a small measured portion of quality pellets
Limit treats and avoid sugary or starchy foods
Supply clean, fresh water daily in a bowl or bottle

Litter & Cleaning

Set up a litter box with rabbit-safe litter and hay
Spot-clean the litter box daily
Clean the full enclosure and replace bedding regularly
Wash food and water containers
Check corners for soiling outside the box

Grooming

Brush the coat regularly, more often during molts
Rabbits ingest loose fur when self-grooming
Check and trim nails as needed
Inspect the rear end for soiling, especially in warm weather
Check ears and eyes for discharge or irritation
Never bathe a rabbit unless advised by a vet

Health Monitoring

Watch appetite and droppings daily for changes
A rabbit not eating or pooping needs urgent vet care
Check teeth alignment and watch for drooling
Observe behavior, posture and energy levels
Feel for lumps or signs of pain during handling
Schedule routine check-ups with a rabbit-savvy vet

Enrichment & Social Needs

Provide chew toys to support dental health
Offer tunnels, boxes and digging or foraging options
Spend daily time interacting at floor level
Consider a bonded companion, as rabbits are social
Rotate toys to keep the environment interesting

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A rabbit care checklist is a routine guide to keeping a pet rabbit healthy — proper housing and space, a hay-based diet, litter habits, grooming and regular health checks. It helps owners meet the specific needs that make rabbits more involved pets than many expect.

Rabbits need far more than a small hutch and pellets. Unlimited hay is the cornerstone of their diet and dental health, they require daily exercise and space, and they are prey animals that hide illness, so close daily observation is essential.

This printable list suits new and current rabbit owners and covers daily, weekly and routine care. Rabbits are social and long-lived, so treat this as an ongoing baseline rather than a one-time setup.

Print it or download the PDF and tick off each task as you go.

FAQ

What should a rabbit eat?

Unlimited grass hay should make up most of a rabbit's diet, supported by fresh leafy greens, a small measured portion of pellets and limited treats. Constant hay supports digestion and wears down continuously growing teeth.

How much space does a pet rabbit need?

Rabbits need far more room than a small hutch — a large enclosure plus daily time to run and stretch in a safe, rabbit-proofed area. Confinement to a tiny cage harms their health and behavior.

Can rabbits use a litter box?

Yes. Many rabbits litter-train well, especially once spayed or neutered. Place a litter box with rabbit-safe litter and a handful of hay in their favored corner and clean it regularly.

When should I take my rabbit to a vet?

Rabbits hide illness, so see a rabbit-savvy vet for any drop in appetite or droppings, which can signal a serious gut problem. This checklist is general guidance; routine check-ups and spay or neuter are best discussed with a vet.

Can I print this rabbit care checklist?

Yes. Print it or download the PDF so you can keep it handy and tick off daily and routine tasks.