So I am an animal lover. I have/have had cats, fish, ducks, chickens and pigs. I have wanted rabbits for so so so long, and the property owner just gave me permission to get two. After doing extensive research (I’m a very serious animal owner, and studying to be a vet nurse) I have totally psyched myself out. See, I am an over thinker, and animal welfare is a huge priority in my life. The buns would have to live mostly outside. We have a wooden kids playhouse (5ftx5ft) which will be converted into a rabbit house (hay, toilet, water, toys, bedding etc), some large corrugated tubing which would run between their house and a smaller run in the garden. We would allow them out on the grass for supervised play most evenings, and in rough/cold weather, we will have a fold out pen available to them inside. Is this enough??? I have had chickens in the past that I just couldn’t stand to see cooped up, so I ended up letting them free range after just one day. Obviously I can’t do this with rabbits! I have serious issues with knowing an animal is bored or unhappy. I know buns are high maintenance, and the work load doesn’t bother me, but are they emotionally high maintenance? My biggest fear is I will adopt some rescues, and I will feel regret (purely because I won’t feel like they are happy in our family). Told you I overthink things!
I should also add that I live in Auckland NZ, we have a very mild climate, and our only suburban predators are cats and dogs.
Thanks!