Rabbits are social animals, which means they need companionship. When you leave your rabbit alone for too long, they can get lonely and depressed. rabbits can also get anxious when left alone, which can lead to health problems.
As a general rule, rabbits aren’t for those who take continuous long trips on weekends and don’t spend much time at home.
This is because they are social creatures who thrive on interaction. Moreover, they have quirks that can be deadly if they’re not properly attended to within 24 hours.
However, it still depends on multiple considerations such as if you have a pair and if they’re already used to being left alone.
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Why Do They Need Us?
If you’re thinking that rabbits are a lot of work then you’ve probably misunderstood my first sentence.
While they can’t be left alone for longer than 24 hours, it is only because of maintenance such as socialization, water, and food.
Rabbits Are Social Creatures
Rabbits thrive on interaction. If I didn’t know any better, I would’ve mistaken them for social butterflies rather than rabbits!
Kidding aside, they easily get into mischief once they’re left to their own devices and become bored.
They could even spiral into depression once they think that you don’t care for them enough. If you’re unfamiliar with their socialization needs, check out this article on rabbits getting lonely at night.
Water
This is the most important thing that you have to maintain/check up on now and again for your pet rabbits.
Water is essential to them, they can die without it. This is because their body isn’t capable of maintaining itself for an extended period without it.
It fuels their cell, blood, gut, and bladder. When dehydrated, their bodies will immediately falter and shut off as fast as 24 hours.
Food
While it’s not as necessary as water, a continuous streak of not having much food to chomp on will greatly affect their teeth.
Since their teeth continuously grow, they need to have access to food for the majority of their day.
It’s also good for their mental health since nibbling is a natural habit that will keep them happy and contented.
However, maintenance isn’t just about providing them food but making sure that it’s quality food (Vegetables and Fruits).
After all, hay doesn’t provide many nutrients. If they get full of hay fast and refrain from eating vegetables/fruits, they will suffer from malnutrition.
How Long Can They Be Left Alone?
Well, it depends on a couple of things. Each rabbit is different, some may be used to longer hours while others may want you by their side at all times.
Generally, you can do around 7 hours to 24 hours, as long as you have proper equipment set for their basic needs.
Are They a Pair?
If you have two rabbits then they’ll be okay being left alone, at least for the socialization part of their maintenance.
Likewise, a solo rabbit will need more cuddle hours and attention, especially if it’s their favorite pastime.
Your Lifestyle
Rabbits can get used to your daily habits, including when you come home and how early you leave.
This will get them used to the lifestyle you have and adapt based on it. In time, they will get used to entertaining themselves as long as you still give them attention, of course.
This means you won’t need to give them as much time as rabbits who are used to 24/7 cuddles and playtime.
Have You Left Them Alone Before?
If you have an experience of leaving them alone then it should be a good indication for longer hours of being solo.
On the other hand, if it’s their first time then you should start with just a few hours and gradually increase it over time.
What to Do When You Leave Them for Longer than They’re Used To?
Are you planning to take a short trip? Well, make sure that both you and your rabbit are properly prepped for your absence.
This includes having someone reliable to take care of them while you’re away. This person should know the ins and outs of taking care of a rabbit as well as what to do in case of an emergency.
In short, you need to have a backup plan for when things go south.
You should also leave behind a list of things that need to be done while you’re gone. This will help your caretaker know what needs to be done and when.
Last but not the least, don’t forget to say your goodbyes and give them a kiss! It’ll mean the world to them!
Water – Both Bowl and Bottle
For their water, it’s better if you have both a bottle and a bowl since bowls are more comfortable for them but they can easily be flipped/contaminated since it’s open.
Fill it up to the brim before you leave so they have enough water to drink while you’re away.
Food – Lots of Hay!
Leave out lots of hay for nibbling as well as some vegetables/fruits mixed in just to make sure that they’re getting enough nutrients.
If they ate more hay than vegetables/fruits then you should increase the latter’s portion on their next meal.
And if they need more hay, consider getting a large hay feeder, especially if you take long trips often and have to leave them alone a lot.
Clean Their Litter Box
Of course, a litter box is needed for their everyday business. Just because you’re going away doesn’t mean that their poop isn’t!
Make sure that it’s big enough for them to move around in and that it’s cleaned out before you leave.
A Dedicated Room
You can’t keep them in a cage for more than 7 hours, they’ll want some room to hop around and enjoy the day in.
If you don’t have a spare room, you can buy playpens that can be large enough for them to be entertained and not cramped up.
Just to Be Safe…
You could also have a friend or a relative check on your rabbit every now and then, maybe even play with them just to ensure everything’s okay.
It’s better if they’ve already bonded with this person as it can cause additional stress if it’s someone they’re not used to.
When in Doubt, Hire a Rabbit Sitter
This is actually a thing! This is the best option if you’re unsure about leaving your rabbits all alone or if you’re leaving for a week or so.
You’ll need to introduce this sitter beforehand and give them a list of all of their tasks which should include cleaning, food-water maintenance, and socialization.
Make sure to mention all of your rabbit’s quirks and extra needs! Also, give them the emergency contact of your veterinarian in case of an emergency.
Conclusion
Rabbits need constant maintenance. They may not need a lot but they sure need it often! That’s the main reason why they can’t be left alone for 24 hours.
So, before you say a temporary goodbye to your lovelies, make sure that everything’s okay and prepared before leaving.
And if you don’t think that they’re able to handle your absence, it’s okay to hire a sitter. They’re great and they can ensure your rabbit’s safety while you’re away.
