While the general lifespan for pet rabbits is 8-12 years, some studies suggest female rabbits (does) might live slightly less (around 3.7 years in one UK study) than males (5.2 years), though factors like spaying, diet, and care significantly impact this, with well-cared-for, indoor, spayed females often living 10+ years, surpassing averages for unspayed females due to reduced cancer risk.
Unlike their wild relatives, who live for an average of one to two years, domesticated rabbits can live between eight to 12 years.
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].
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.
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.
Is there such a thing as a 'low mood' in rabbits?
Reaction to unfamiliar or confusing situations. Whether it's a change in routine, a rearranged living space or a new scent, you rabbit may thump as a sign to say that something isn't quite right. And they may continue doing this until they feel reassured.
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.
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.
Signs your rabbit is unwell
The most common symptoms of a dying rabbit include a lack of appetite, a loss of strength, and erratic movements.
Zoonotic diseases associated with rabbits include pasteurellosis, ringworm, mycobacteriosis, cryptosporidiosis and external parasites. Rabbits can transmit bacteria through bites and scratches.
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 can definitely form a strong bond with their human caregivers, showing signs of attachment through behaviours like seeking attention and responding positively to interaction.
In answer to the question what animal eats rabbits, the most common that springs to mind is the fox. But there are numerous others including pet dogs and cats, birds of prey, stoats, weasels, ferrets, badgers and snakes.
Although hard to spot, there are a few signs of dementia, or CDS, in pets:
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.
Consider arranging some time to talk with your vet. They will help you assess your rabbit's quality of life. 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.
If a rabbit comes up and nudges you or hand and puts their head down to be pet, that's a sign that they love you and enjoy the way you interact with them. If a rabbit is willing to come up to you whenever they want and ask to be pet, then that is a clear sign that your rabbit loves and trusts you.
You should take the body to the hospital as soon as possible, however if your bunny dies while the hospital is closed, place the body in the refrigerator until you can get to the veterinary hospital. It is important that you don't freeze the body as this will damage the tissues.
Most rabbits will suddenly roll onto their side in what's known as the “flop” – the ultimate chill-out posture. It can look like they've passed out, but really, it's their way of saying, “Life's good.”
Rabbits, by nature, are active at night and during the day, taking naps as and when it suits them, so it is not acceptable to shut a rabbit into a cage even at night or when you are out.
If they are sitting upright and their front paws are 'boxing' at you, they are likely very unhappy. Vocalising. Rabbits don't tend to make much noise and when they do it's a sign they're feeling very threatened. You may hear them grunting or growling and in extreme cases, they can scream.