Can You Keep a Wild Baby Rabbit as a Pet?

Wild baby rabbits can be found in many parts of the world and are often seen as cute and cuddly creatures. However, it is important to remember that wild rabbits are not domesticated and should not be kept as pets.

Baby Rabbits Need Specialized Care

Baby rabbits are born with their eyes closed and furless. They are completely dependent on their mother for food and care. Wild rabbits give birth to their young in nests lined with fur and vegetation. The mother rabbit will nurse her young multiple times a day and will also keep them clean and warm.

It is impossible to provide the same level of care for a wild baby rabbit in a domestic setting. Baby rabbits need a diet of fresh vegetables, hay, and water. They also need to be kept in a warm, draft-free environment. If you are unable to provide this level of care, then you should not attempt to keep a wild baby rabbit as a pet.

Wild Rabbits Can Transmit Diseases

Wild rabbits can carry a variety of diseases that can be transmitted to humans. These diseases include tularemia, salmonellosis, and rabies. Tularemia is a bacterial infection that can cause fever, chills, and muscle aches. Salmonellosis is a bacterial infection that can cause diarrhea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. Rabies is a fatal viral infection that affects the brain and spinal cord.

If you are bitten or scratched by a wild rabbit, it is important to seek medical attention immediately. even if you do not see any signs of infection, you may still be at risk of contracting a disease.

Wild Rabbits Are Not Tame

Wild rabbits are not tame animals. They can be unpredictable and may bite or scratch if they feel threatened. Even if you raise a wild baby rabbit from a young age, it is unlikely that it will ever become fully socialized. This means that it may never be safe to handle or interact with.

If you are looking for a pet rabbit, you should adopt a domesticated rabbit from a shelter or rescue organization. Domesticated rabbits have been bred to be friendly and gentle, and they make great companions.

Conclusion

For all of these reasons, it is clear that wild baby rabbits should not be kept as pets. They need specialized care, they can transmit diseases, and they are not tame. If you are looking for a pet rabbit, you should adopt a domesticated rabbit from a shelter or rescue organization.