Rabbits, these small and adorable animals, are often misunderstood by people.

Many myths about rabbits are widely spread, leading to misconceptions about their behavior, diet, and lifestyle.

Here are the top nine common myths about rabbits, along with the truths that reveal them.

1. Only Eat Carrots

This is a common myth, with many believing that carrots are a rabbit's primary food. However, rabbits have a highly diverse diet. While they can eat carrots, they primarily need hay, such as dried grass, as a main component of their diet.

Additionally, fresh leafy vegetables like lettuce, spinach, and cilantro are crucial for their health. Excessive carrots can be detrimental due to their high sugar content.

2. Are Rodents

Contrary to popular belief, rabbits belong to the order Lagomorpha, which is distinct from rodents. While both rabbits and rodents have continuously growing incisors, rabbits have four incisors, whereas rodents have two. Moreover, rabbits chew in an up-and-down motion rather than the side-to-side chewing of rodents.

3. Are Solitary Animals

Many people think rabbits prefer solitude, but they are highly social animals. In the wild, they typically live in family groups or colonies. Domestic rabbits can become lonely and depressed if kept alone for extended periods. Therefore, many rabbit owners opt to keep them in pairs or provide sufficient social interaction and playtime.

4. Can Be Litter-Trained Like Cats

Although effective for cats, litter boxes are not suitable for rabbits. Rabbits have different elimination habits and prefer to relieve themselves on hay or straw. Many rabbit owners line their rabbits' enclosures or play areas with hay, enabling rabbits to eat and eliminate in the same place, thereby maintaining cleanliness.

5. Don't Feel Pain

This myth is not only false but also highly dangerous. Like other mammals, rabbits have a complex nervous system and can feel pain. It is natural for them to conceal signs of pain and discomfort as a survival instinct to avoid becoming prey.

Therefore, if your rabbit exhibits any abnormal behavior such as not eating, reduced activity, or unusual quietness, it may indicate that it is experiencing pain or illness and should be taken to a veterinarian immediately.

6. Need Daily Baths

Rabbits are naturally clean animals and spend a considerable amount of time grooming themselves. Bathing rabbits can strip their skin of essential oils, leading to dryness and skin problems. If a rabbit's fur becomes soiled, wiping it with a damp cloth is preferable to bathing.

7. Have Short Lifespans

While wild rabbits may have brief lifespans, typically 2 to 3 years, domestic rabbits can live much longer with proper care. Well-cared-for rabbits can live up to 10 years or more.

8. Don't Make Sounds

Although quieter than cats or dogs, rabbits do vocalize. They use various sounds to communicate emotions, such as soft purring when content or high-pitched squeals when frightened or distressed. Understanding these vocalizations can help owners better care for their rabbits.

9. Are Ideal Pets for Children

While rabbits may appear docile and cute, they are not low-maintenance pets suitable solely for children.

Rabbits require a significant amount of time and effort from their owners, including providing a proper diet, maintaining clean habitats, regular health checks, and ample social interaction. Children often struggle to meet these responsibilities, making rabbits better suited for experienced adults or families.

In summary, many common myths about rabbits are either incorrect or based on incomplete understanding. Understanding the true needs and behaviors of rabbits not only helps us care for them better but also improves their quality of life.

By debunking these myths, we hope to assist more rabbit owners in providing better care and love for their pets. As companion animals, rabbits can bring endless joy and companionship to our lives, but we must treat and understand them correctly.