Bringing Japanese rabbit care up to global standards
How to Care for Rabbits (Officially Certified by the House Rabbit Society)
Rabbit Care Basics | House Rabbit Society Certified World Standard Care Guide
The House Rabbit Society (HRS), the world's largest rabbit conservation and education organization, has established a world-class educational program based on years of activity and research. This program presents the latest rabbit care methods, prioritizing the ecology and welfare of rabbits, in an easy-to-understand format using slides in Japanese.
Rabbits are animals that "live indoors as part of the family."
In the past, it was common in Japan to keep rabbits in outdoor cages. However, research and practice by the Human Rabbit Society (HRS) have shown that rabbits can live much longer and healthier lives when they live indoors with humans.
Rabbits kept outdoors are subject to many factors that shorten their lifespan, including sudden temperature changes, stress from predators, and psychological damage from loneliness. Rabbits that live indoors as part of the family often have an average lifespan of 10 to 12 years or more.
The right diet for rabbits: The correct ratio of hay, vegetables, and pellets.
The most important part of a rabbit's diet is hay (timothy). Providing them with unlimited access to hay every day is absolutely essential.
Guidelines for the proportion of meals
Hay (timothy): Makes up over 80% of the total diet; unlimited.
Fresh leafy greens: about 1 cup per kg of body weight daily.
Pellets: Small amount (as a nutritional supplement, not as a treat)
Fruits and carrots: Limit consumption due to their high sugar content.
While the idea that "rabbits should eat carrots" is widely accepted, carrots are high in sugar, and feeding them daily can lead to obesity and digestive problems. It's better to feed them leafy green vegetables (such as red leaf lettuce, parsley, and coriander).
Reasons why rabbits need a large space
Rabbits are naturally animals with high physical abilities, capable of running several kilometers a day. If they spend their entire lives confined to a small, commercially available cage, they will suffer from serious health problems such as lack of exercise, stress, and weakened bones.
Living environment recommended by HRS:
Secure a large space enclosed by a circle, fence, or transparent panel.
Create a set time each day when your pet can run around freely in the room.
The cage is seen as a place to sleep and a place to use the toilet, so during the day, let them roam as freely as possible.
Why is spaying/neutering necessary? | Impact on rabbit health and lifespan
Rabbit sterilization is not simply about "reproduction control." For female rabbits in particular, sterilization is a life-saving medical procedure.
According to HRS data, approximately 80% of unspayed female rabbits develop uterine diseases.
Benefits of sterilization surgery
Female: Prevents serious diseases such as uterine cancer and pyometra.
Males: Territorial behavior, spraying, and aggression are significantly reduced, and the risk of testicular cancer and hernias decreases.
Both males and females: They tend to have calmer temperaments and are more likely to be successfully toilet trained.
For information on the appropriate timing of surgery, we recommend consulting a veterinarian specializing in exotic animals who can treat rabbits.
Average lifespan and health management of rabbits | Things to know for a long life
The average lifespan of a rabbit raised in a suitable environment and with the right diet is 10 to 12 years. A rabbit's lifespan can vary greatly depending on whether or not you have the correct knowledge.
Key points for health management
Observe their daily behavior (appetite, amount and shape of feces, movement).
Find a veterinarian specializing in exotic animals who can treat rabbits in advance.
I get regular health checkups once or twice a year.
Provide plenty of hay to maintain digestive health.
Be mindful of malocclusion (this can be prevented by ensuring they eat plenty of hay).
Rabbits are animals that "hide their illnesses." Observing them carefully on a daily basis and taking them to the vet as soon as you notice any abnormalities is key to a long and healthy life.
Things you should know before bringing a rabbit into your home
Like dogs and cats, rabbits are family members that require long-term commitment. The HRS (Human Resources Research Society) also strongly recommends adopting a rescue rabbit rather than buying one from a pet shop.
Checklist before the event:
Can you take responsibility for caring for it for more than 10 years?
Are all family members in agreement to welcome a rabbit into their home?
Is there a veterinary clinic nearby that treats rabbits?
Do you have someone you can ask to take care of you when you are away for an extended period, such as during travel or hospitalization?
Download the official HRS-certified rabbit care slides for free.
"World-class care based on rabbit ecology and welfare"
What you can learn from this slide (Key points of world-standard rabbit care) House Rabbit Society
Establishing a safe indoor environment: Knowledge to completely eliminate external threats and weather risks, and to ensure that families can live together safely.
A space that respects physical abilities: A spacious living environment utilizing enclosures and panels to accommodate the high physical abilities of rabbits.
Medical Care, Diet, and Sterilization: The Mindset of a Responsible Guardian for Supporting Your Pet's Health Throughout a Long Life of 10+ Years
This guide will help you understand "true rabbit happiness" in just 10 minutes. Whether you're considering getting a new rabbit or simply want to improve your current rabbit's living environment, download this "world-standard textbook" and start a new life based on rabbit welfare.