How Much Does a Pet Rabbit Cost?
If you want to get a rabbit, it’s important to know how much a pet rabbit costs. That’s why I’ll give you an estimated budget idea for that. Let’s break down the costs into three categories: upfront costs, annual ongoing costs, and lifetime costs. Keep in mind that these numbers may increase or decrease depending on your location.
Upfront Costs
These are the essential expenses and home preparation costs you’ll face when getting your bunny:
- Bunny cost: $40 to $50 (depending on breed)
- Carrier: $30
- X-pen (home base): $40
- Food (including hay): $40
- Litter box: $20
- Bedding/litter: $10
- Food and water bowls: $10
- Spaying or neutering: $350
- Grooming supplies: $30
- First aid supplies: $30
- Bunny proofing supplies: $40
- Toys/accessories (hiding houses, tunnels, chew toys): $40
Total upfront cost: $640 (excluding the cost of obtaining the rabbit)
Annual Ongoing Costs
These are the expenses you’ll incur each year:
- Hay: $140
- Bedding/litter: $96
- Veggies: $260
- Pellets: $66
- Replacement toys/accessories: $100
- Pet-safe cleaning supplies: $15
- Property damage: $150
- Yearly vet checkup: $100
- Bunny boarding (assuming one vacation/year): $250
Total annual ongoing cost: $1,177
Lifetime Costs
Assuming your bunny lives up to 12 years of age, the lifetime cost would be:
Annual cost x 12 + Startup cost = $14,764
Saving Money on Rabbit Care
Here are some tips to save money on rabbit care:
- Adopt bunnies from shelters or rescues; rescued bunnies are almost always already spayed and neutered and have had their first medical checkup.
- Foster bunnies to experience joy without the full financial commitment.
- Buy hay from a local farmer; it also lasts much longer than store-bought hay.
- Make your own toys using dried hay, wood blocks, or sticks.
- Use safe fruits as treats.
- Grow your own herbs and vegetables.
- Consider pet insurance.
- Provide a healthy lifestyle for your rabbit to keep it away from disease and the veterinarian.
So those are the estimated costs you would have to spend if you have a pet rabbit.
You can read this rabbit care article to learn how to take care of your rabbit. I discuss all the basic things so that you can provide them to stay healthy and happy.
Chondon Sarker, known as the Bunny Guru, is a passionate rabbit owner with over 10 years of experience. He has three pet rabbits and has gained extensive knowledge in rabbit behavior, health, nutrition, and housing. Chondon aims to share his expertise to help other rabbit lovers provide the best possible care for their furry friends.