News release

Cute and Cuddly Isn’t Always for Everybody

City services | April 11, 2022

Over the last few years, there has been an uptick in rabbits being abandoned outside or dropped off at the Mississauga Animal Services shelter. The City has never seen this many rabbits at the shelters before. Unlike wild rabbits, domestic rabbits cannot survive long on their own outdoors, and none would make it through a winter.

There is a lot of time, space and money that must be invested in having a rabbit as a pet. Rabbits live longer than many people expect, around 10 to 12 years. They are intelligent and social pets, and can be amazing for the right home. They make great pets for older children and adults.

Please, think twice before taking a rabbit as a pet. If you do, consider adopting from Animal Services.

What to expect

Rabbits:

  • Are social animals. They need space to relax, but shouldn’t be secluded from the family.
  • Require a specialized diet, daily care, supervised exercise, pen cleaning and socialization.
  • Should be spayed or neutered to prevent related health and behavioural issues.
  • Often don’t like to be picked up or cuddled.
  • Can be costly to own. Be prepared for an adoption fee, housing, food and rabbit-proofing supplies.
  • Are curious animals and can get into trouble chewing on things or digging around the house.
  • Can be litter trained.

The City has many rabbits up for adoption at Animal Services who are waiting patiently for a loving family to give them a forever home.

If you want to learn more about rabbits, please contact Animal Services at 905-896-5858 or visit mississauga.ca/animalservices.

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Media contact

City of Mississauga Media Relations
media@mississauga.ca
905-615-3200, ext. 5232
TTY: 905-896-5151