A 5-year-old rabbit is generally considered to be in its senior years, roughly equivalent to a human in their mid-40s, with some sources placing it around 44-45 years in human age, marking a middle-aged or senior stage where their care needs might shift towards supporting their overall health and potential age-related concerns.
Rabbit Year 1 = Human Year 21. RY 2 = the 21 HY above + 6 = 27 HY. RY 5 = the 21 HY + 6 HY = 27 + 6 = 33 + 6 =39 + 6 = 45.
A pet rabbits life expectancy is usually 8-12 years, and they're considered senior when they reach 7-8 years old, but the lifespan of a rabbit varies as every bunny is different.
Small and medium rabbits have a longer lifespan and are considered to be elderly between six and eight years old. Large, giant and dwarf breeds have a shorter lifespan and are considered elderly at four years old. All rabbits age differently and some can show signs of aging sooner than others.
The 3-3-3 rule for rabbits (and other pets) is a guideline for adjusting to a new home: 3 Days for the rabbit to feel overwhelmed and hide, 3 Weeks to start settling in and showing personality, and 3 Months to feel truly at home and build a strong bond. It helps adopters manage expectations, understand that fear and skittishness are normal, and encourages patience as the bunny decompresses in its new environment, emphasizing providing a safe space and routine.
Rabbits are sociable creatures that can form deep bonds with their human companions.
Their back legs are stretched out behind the body and their front paws are pointing forward. A happy rabbit jumps into the air with all four paws off the ground and twists in mid-air before landing. This is called 'binkying' and is a sign that the rabbit is happy or excited.
However, if your otherwise healthy elder rabbit begins to exhibit these signs, it's possible that his or her time is coming to an end.
Rabbit Lifestyle
If they suffer from too much stress due to children, other pets, or loud sounds it can cause them to go into shock which can be potentially fatal.
Rabbits are considered old when they're only 4 or 5, sometimes younger! While other breeds won't start slowing down until they're 9 or 10. Vets commonly see rabbits that are 12 years old, and rabbits as old as 14 have been seen in practice.
If you have a single rabbit, it's never too late for them to bond with another rabbit. If you have a young rabbit (under 12 weeks old) you'll usually be able to introduce another young rabbit of the same sex easily. If you have an older rabbit it take a little longer.
6 Signs Your Rabbit Is Getting Old
They groom you
They will lick each other and maybe give a couple love nips to help the other bun out. When your rabbit starts to lick you or your clothing, it means that they see you as part of their bunny family. They trust you and love you enough to care about your cleanliness and well being.
Rabbits become 'senior:' at 5 to 8 years old.
What are the signs of aging?
Unlike their wild relatives, who live for an average of one to two years, domesticated rabbits can live between eight to 12 years. This is because they are not exposed to disease, food scarcity and predators.
The 3-3-3 rule for rabbits (and other pets) is a guideline for adjusting to a new home: 3 Days for the rabbit to feel overwhelmed and hide, 3 Weeks to start settling in and showing personality, and 3 Months to feel truly at home and build a strong bond. It helps adopters manage expectations, understand that fear and skittishness are normal, and encourages patience as the bunny decompresses in its new environment, emphasizing providing a safe space and routine.
A previous study based on primary veterinary care showed that the most common causes of death in pet rabbits were myiasis, myxomatosis, and bite injuries, which could be prevented by improved housing and suitable care [5].
Is there such a thing as a 'low mood' in rabbits?
When one rabbit in a pair passes it's extremely important that the survivor is given the chance to be with the deceased body for a few hours. This may sound bizarre, even morbid, but leaving the deceased body gives the surviving rabbit the ability to say goodbye and absorb what has happened to their friend.
Signs your rabbit is unwell
Deciding when to put your rabbit to sleep
They will consider whether the rabbit is in pain (which can sometimes be difficult to assess), has stopped eating, is showing changes in behaviour or is unable to display natural behaviours.
Working out if your rabbit could be lonely
Show your bunnies you love them by providing a safe, spacious and comfortable environment. 🐰 The best way to gain your rabbits 'trust is by simply spending lots of time by being near them while allowing your rabbits to approach you in their own time.
Rabbit Sploot: A very relaxed position where a rabbit tucks their front legs under their body and stretches out their back legs. AKA: “paint me like one of your French girls” We LOVE seeing these adoption updates with relaxed, happy rabbits 😍