When families begin looking for rabbits, it’s often with the hope of finding a gentle companion for their children. But while rabbits can make wonderful family members, they are not always the “easy first pet” people imagine. Respecting their needs, adopting responsibly, and teaching children patience are the real keys to building a lasting bond.
This blog brings together advice shared in rehoming groups, rescue insights, and our own experience through Guinea Gourmet Treats and Guinea Garden Sanctuary.
Why Adoption is the Best Start
Rabbits are the third most abandoned pet in the UK (after dogs and cats). Many end up in rescues due to overbreeding, impulse purchases, or families not being prepared for their needs.
By adopting:
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You give rabbits a second chance at life.
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Most rescues neuter, vaccinate, and health-check before rehoming.
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Rabbits are often personality-assessed, meaning rescues can match them to families with children.
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You support ethical, welfare-led care instead of fuelling the cycle of breeding and abandonment.
Bleakholt Animal Sanctuary, the Rabbit Welfare Association & Fund (RWAF), and local rescues across Manchester and beyond are filled with rabbits waiting for homes. Choosing them is a compassionate, responsible decision.
Respecting Rabbits: Not “First Pets” but Family
A common misconception is that rabbits enjoy being picked up or carried around. In truth, rabbits are prey animals — many find handling stressful. Even rabbits “used to children” may become anxious in a new environment.
That’s why it’s important to set realistic expectations:
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No forced handling. Children should be taught that rabbits choose if and when they want affection.
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Stress of moving. Every rehome is traumatic at first. Time, patience, and gentle consistency matter more than cuddles in the beginning.
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Safe spaces. Rabbits should always have hideaways and a quiet area where children know not to disturb them.
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Observation first. Encourage children to watch, learn body language, and interact at the rabbit’s pace.
When children are guided to respect an animal’s choices, they not only bond better with their pets but also learn empathy and patience.
The Role of Children: Bonding Without Pressure
Children can form strong, positive relationships with rabbits when introduced properly. The best way is to focus on quiet presence and enrichment rather than instant petting.
Practical tips:
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Offer treats by hand. Natural forages, fresh herbs, or gentle hay-based snacks help rabbits associate children with safety and positivity.
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Sit on the floor. Let rabbits come over in their own time.
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Keep interactions short and calm. A few minutes of gentle stroking on the head (if the rabbit chooses) is enough.
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Involve kids in care. Filling hay racks, refreshing water, or scattering forage teaches responsibility without pressure.
The RWAF advises that under-10s should always be supervised, and adults remain primary carers. Rabbits may not suit every child, but when respect leads, the relationship becomes rewarding for everyone.
The Right Environment: Space and Enrichment
Samantha in the thread mentioned a 9ft x 6ft enclosure — and that’s a fantastic start. The RWAF recommends a minimum of 10ft x 6ft x 3ft for a pair of rabbits, so Samantha is already on the right track.
Rescues and welfare organisations emphasise:
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Companionship. Rabbits thrive in pairs.
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Freedom to run, dig, and explore. Big spaces reduce boredom and health issues.
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Mental stimulation. Forages, tunnels, branches, and chew toys prevent destructive behaviour.
How Guinea Gourmet Treats Supports Rescue Rabbits
Through my own rescue background with Guinea Garden Sanctuary, I’ve seen how much diet and environment shape recovery. Natural forages don’t just support physical health — they also build confidence, calm nerves, and encourage natural behaviours.
That’s why at Guinea Gourmet Treats, everything we create is:
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Rooted in rescue knowledge. Over 10 years’ experience in care and rehabilitation.
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Science-backed and natural. Forages designed to mimic wild grazing.
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Suitable for a wide range of pets. Rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters, and even Giant African Land Snails.
For rabbits settling into a new home, introducing gentle, familiar scents and tastes through forage can make all the difference in helping them feel secure.
Explore our range here: https://www.guineagourmettreats.co.uk 🌿
Final Thoughts
Children and rabbits can be a wonderful match — but only if guided by respect, patience, and proper education. Adoption from rescues ensures rabbits get the homes they deserve, while children learn empathy and responsibility the right way.
A rabbit isn’t a “starter pet” or a toy — it’s a family member with needs, feelings, and boundaries. Respect those, and the bond that grows will be one your children cherish for years to come.
💛 Thinking of adding rabbits to your family? Start by exploring rescues near you, read up on rabbit welfare at RWAF, and don’t forget to check out our natural forages and enrichment ideas at https://www.guineagourmettreats.co.uk.
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