Image: istockphoto.com/Rich Legg/ Lisa Thornberg
Sadly most Easter chicks die within weeks and most rabbits end up abandoned in shelters. In fact, after dogs and cats, rabbits are the third most common pet found in shelters.
Children and rabbits don’t mix
By nature, rabbits are delicate creatures who easily upset and startled. Despite their cuddly appearance, they don’t like being held or squeezed and usually respond to enthusiastic affection by biting or scratching.
Many Easter rabbits get accidentally dropped by children who are startled by this unexpected response. A bunny with a broken leg or back is not exactly the kind of Easter memory you want.
Rabbit love
In a few months that cute bunny is going to be an adolescent rabbit looking for love. Amorous rabbits can be quite aggressive -- especially the females and most household rabbits must be neutered to calm them down. This will require a veterinarian who handles exotic pets.
Long term commitment
Rabbits can live up to 10 years and require constant attention. Since they are prodigious poopers their cages must be cleaned daily, unless you train them to use litter. They are also prone to digestive diseases so the proper diet is important and you must watch their health closely. Unfortunately, due to their high maintenance needs, most rabbits end up being neglected.
Do your research
Rabbits are lovely, affectionate creatures and with the proper care they can make good pets. Just don’t buy on impulse. If you’re absolutely sure you want a rabbit, and then educate yourself. Be sure to visit the Rabbit House Society, a non profit organization offering plenty of advice to keep bunny happy and healthy.
Chicks not suitable
Unless you live on a farm and are planning on starting a hatchery or growing your own food, buying a baby chick for Easter is not a good idea. The urban home just doesn’t have the right set-up.
According to the American Humane Association, the majority of Easter baby chicks usually die within a few weeks of the holiday. Stress, broken bones from being squeezed or dropped and lack of proper care and diet are usually the cause for premature deaths.
Special requirements
Chicks younger than six weeks need a brooder box that can supply high, steady heat with enough room for the chick to run around. Older chicks need a specially designed chicken coop that offers protection from cats, dogs and other predators. Special feed is needed for each stage of development.
More than you bargained for
The demand for Easter chicks often creates breeding factories where the chicks are raised and shipped in crowded conditions. As a result most are infected with Salmonella. Children sometimes become infected after handling or playing with the birds. Be sure to wash your hands thoroughly after handling any chicks.
Feathers will fly
Should your Easter chick survive Easter, within weeks it will be a full grown hen or rooster and no longer cute or fluffy. Since most municipalities don’t allow livestock in the community, you may be fined for having a barnyard in your living room.
Healthier choices
Here some alternatives to create some Easter magic:
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