FAQs to Keep Your Bunny Safe and Happy While You’re Away
Planning a break but unsure what to do with your rabbit?
You’re not alone. Lots of owners worry about how their rabbit will cope while they’re away. Will they eat? Will they be stressed? Who can you trust to care for them properly?
Rabbits are sensitive animals. They don’t handle change well. Leaving them with someone who doesn’t understand their needs can lead to serious issues.
But it doesn’t have to be stressful. With the proper holiday care, your rabbit can stay safe, calm, and well looked after.
Del from Finchley Dog Walker offers reliable rabbit pop-ins and small animal care across North London. Your rabbit stays in familiar surroundings while Del handles everything—from feeding and cleaning to health checks and updates.
In this guide, I’ll answer the most common rabbit holiday care questions. Whether you’re going away for a weekend or a few weeks, you’ll find tips to help your rabbit stay comfortable and safe.
What are my rabbit holiday care options?
There are three main options, depending on your rabbit’s needs, your budget, and how long you’ll be away:
- Home visits
A professional pet sitter pops in once or twice a day. Great if your rabbit is happiest in their own space. - Live-in sitter
Someone stays in your home while you’re away. Best for nervous rabbits or those with complex needs. - Boarding
Your rabbit stays with a carer or at a rabbit boarding facility. Useful if you want round-the-clock care.
Think about what suits your rabbit’s personality. Are they easily stressed? Do they need daily grooming or medication?
You also want someone who understands rabbit behaviour. Not every pet sitter does. You can learn more about Finchley Dog Walker’s experienced pet care services.
Should I choose home care or boarding?
Home care works best for most rabbits. It keeps them in familiar surroundings and avoids the stress of travel. Your sitter can stick to your rabbit’s routine and monitor any changes in behaviour.
But some rabbits cope fine with boarding, especially if:
- The facility is quiet and rabbit-specific
- They’re bonded with another rabbit
- The carer gives them one-to-one attention
Before choosing, ask yourself:
- Will they be alone or with other rabbits?
- How does the carer handle feeding, cleaning, and health checks?
- Are they trained in rabbit care?
Ask for reviews or to visit the space if you’re booking a boarding facility. The RWAF has a list of standards to look for.
What should a rabbit sitter know?
Not all pet sitters are familiar with rabbit care. Here’s what your sitter should know before you leave:
- Your rabbit’s daily routine
- Litter tray habits
- Signs of distress
- Handling needs
- Medical history
I always recommend leaving clear written instructions, along with emergency contact details and your vet’s number.
You can also download a free pet sitter checklist from the Rabbit Welfare Association.
How often should someone check on my rabbit?
At least twice a day is ideal. Rabbits can go downhill quickly if something’s wrong.
They need:
- Fresh hay and water
- Litter tray checks
- A quick health check
- Human interaction or quiet observation
If your rabbit is older or has health issues, more frequent checks are safer.
One of my clients has a rabbit who hides pain very well. She found out the hard way when a one-visit-a-day sitter missed early signs of stasis. Now she books two daily visits through my pet sitting service.
Can rabbits get lonely if I go away?
Yes. Rabbits are social animals.
If you have a pair, they’ll usually comfort each other. But a solo rabbit needs regular company.
Make sure your sitter spends time near them. Even a quiet presence helps.
Leave familiar toys and avoid changing their setup. Stick to the usual food, bedding, and routine.
You can even leave a jumper that smells like you nearby. It helps reassure them.
What should I leave for the sitter?
Prepare everything before you go:
- Food supply (pellets, hay, veggies)
- Clean water bottles or bowls
- Bedding and litter
- Medication with instructions
- Contact info and vet details
- Emergency plan
Write down your rabbit’s quirks too. Do they hate loud noise? Love basil? Chew the corner of the hutch when they’re bored?
The more your sitter knows, the better they can care for your rabbit.
How can I make travel or boarding less stressful?
If boarding is the best option, ease the transition:
- Bring their usual bedding or a used litter tray
- Stick to the same food and feeding times
- Avoid travel in peak heat
- Use a secure, well-ventilated carrier
- Keep bonded rabbits together
Speak to the carer beforehand about what calms your rabbit. Do they like being stroked? Prefer a quiet corner?
What if my rabbit gets sick while I’m away?
Make sure your sitter knows what to look for:
- Not eating or pooing
- Sitting hunched
- Teeth grinding
- Wet nose or eyes
- Diarrhoea
Leave written permission for your vet to treat them if needed.
In one case, a sitter spotted a rabbit refusing food and got them to the vet within hours. It turned out to be early GI stasis. Fast action saved them.
This is why experience matters. Professional rabbit care can make all the difference.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How much does Rabbit Holiday Care cost?
Home visits start around £10–£15 per visit. Boarding can range from £8 to £20 per day, depending on the care offered.
Can rabbits stay alone for a weekend?
No. They need daily checks at a minimum. Even 24 hours without food can lead to serious health issues.
What if my rabbit stops eating while I’m away?
Contact a vet straight away. Gut stasis can be fatal if not treated early. Your sitter should know how to act quickly.
Want to feel confident leaving your rabbit?
Holiday care for rabbits isn’t one-size-fits-all. Every rabbit is different. You need to think about their habits, their health, and their environment.
The proper care helps your rabbit feel safe, calm, and well looked after while you take time away.
Start planning early. Ask questions. Choose someone who truly understands rabbit pet care.
If you’re in North London, Del from Finchley Dog Walker offers tailored rabbit pop-in visits.
He’s experienced, gentle, and takes time to get to know each rabbit’s routine. It’s care you can trust—so you can enjoy your holiday without worry.
Learn more about rabbit holiday care services or get in touch today to check availability.