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Rabbits: a UK guide to care, health, law and costs
A UK guide to keeping rabbits: what they need, how long they live, health and cost, the law and what to do in an emergency.
This is general information for the UK. It is not veterinary or legal advice, and every animal is different. Speak to a vet about your pet's health, and check current rules on GOV.UK, or with your local authority. The Be Pet Wise app can also show rules for other countries.
At a glance
| Typical lifespan | About 8–12 years |
|---|---|
| Daily time | Feeding, cleaning and time out of the hutch |
| Space | A large run and living area, not just a hutch |
| Best for | Families who can commit to a pair and daily care |
Care and food
Rabbits need unlimited hay or grass (most of the diet), a portion of fresh leafy greens and only a small measure of pellets. They need a large, safe space to run, jump and stand up, shelter from heat and cold, and something to chew and dig. Clean their living area regularly.
Character and suitability
Rabbits are social and are happiest kept with a compatible rabbit, usually a neutered pair, since they can become lonely and stressed on their own. They are active around dawn and dusk, and often prefer not to be picked up. Gentle, patient handling builds trust.
Health and lifespan
Dental disease, gut slowdown (stasis), snuffles and fly strike in warm weather are common. Vaccination against myxomatosis and rabbit viral haemorrhagic disease is widely recommended, and neutering helps behaviour and health. Rabbits hide illness, so check droppings, appetite and behaviour daily.
Allergies
Hay, dust and rabbit dander can trigger allergies and asthma. Ask about it before adopting, and keep bedding and hay well managed.
The law in the UK
Rabbits are covered by animal welfare law, so owners must meet their needs for diet, environment, behaviour, company and health. Cruelty and neglect are offences. Check local rules on breeding and keeping animals in rented homes.
What it costs
Budget for large enclosure and run, hay and greens every week, vaccinations, neutering, insurance or savings for vet bills and dental care, and a second rabbit. Rabbit vets can be more specialist and costly than for cats and dogs.
Emergencies: when to call a vet
Treat as an emergency: no food eaten or no droppings for around 12 hours, a swollen or hard tummy, breathing difficulty, maggots (fly strike), head tilt, sudden collapse or heatstroke. Rabbits can deteriorate very quickly.
Adopting or buying
Rabbit rescues often have bonded pairs and will help match a new rabbit to yours. Buy from a breeder only if you can see the parents' home, and avoid impulse buys.
Frequently asked questions
How long do rabbits live?
Most pet rabbits live about 8 to 12 years with good care.
Should rabbits be kept alone?
Rabbits are social animals and are generally happier with a compatible rabbit companion, usually a neutered pair.
What do rabbits eat?
Mostly unlimited hay or grass, plus fresh leafy greens and a small measure of pellets. Sugary treats should be limited.
Do rabbits need vaccinations?
Vets widely recommend vaccination against myxomatosis and rabbit viral haemorrhagic disease, even for indoor rabbits.
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Open Be Pet WiseBrowse all guidesReviewed 2026-09-20. General information for the UK, not veterinary or legal advice. See a vet for any health concern.