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How to Care for and Internationally Relocate Rabbits

A Comprehensive Guide to Keeping Bunnies Happy at Home—and How to Move Them Across Borders Safely


Learn how to care for rabbits and navigate rabbit import/export USA procedures, including crate setup, quarantine, and international bunny relocation tips.


Introduction: More Than Floppy Ears and Cotton Tails


Rabbits are increasingly popular as companion animals—and for good reason. They’re intelligent, affectionate, clean, and can even be litter-trained. But while they may look low-maintenance, rabbits require thoughtful daily care, veterinary attention, and special considerations when traveling abroad.


Whether you're a lifelong rabbit parent or planning a relocation across countries, this guide will help you navigate daily care needs and the intricacies of rabbit transport, international rabbit relocation, and rabbit import/export USA regulations.



1. Common Pet Rabbit Breeds and Their Characteristics


Rabbits come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and temperaments.

Breed

Weight

Notable Traits

Holland Lop

2–4 lbs

Small, sweet, good for beginners

Mini Rex

3.5–4.5 lbs

Plush coat, gentle nature

Lionhead

2.5–3.5 lbs

Fluffy mane, very social

Flemish Giant

15–20 lbs

Huge, docile, needs space

Dutch

4–6 lbs

Playful, alert

Different breeds may require different enclosure sizes, dietary quantities, and travel crate dimensions—critical when planning relocation.



2. Basic Daily Rabbit Care


Housing

  • Minimum space: 3x their body length in all directions

  • Indoor living is safest; outdoor enclosures must be predator-proof

  • Flooring: no wire mesh; use soft mats, fleece, or hay-based bedding


Litter Training

  • Most rabbits can be trained to use a litter box

  • Use paper-based or compressed wood litter (never clumping cat litter)


Diet

  • 80% hay (timothy or orchard grass)

  • 10–15% leafy greens (romaine, cilantro, parsley)

  • 5% pellets (high fiber, low protein)

  • Occasional treats: banana, apple slices, carrot tops


Grooming

  • Weekly brushing; daily during molt season

  • Nail trims every 4–6 weeks

  • Never bathe a rabbit—they can go into shock



3. Social and Behavioral Needs

  • Rabbits are social and should not live alone if possible

  • Fixed pairs (especially neutered males + females) bond deeply

  • Enrichment: tunnels, cardboard boxes, chew toys, puzzle feeders

  • Avoid picking up unless trained—they feel unsafe when lifted





4. Veterinary Care


Common Medical Concerns:

  • GI stasis (life-threatening if not treated quickly)

  • Dental problems (overgrown molars)

  • Ear mites or fleas

  • Heatstroke


Preventive Care:

  • Annual vet checks (with a rabbit-savvy vet)

  • Vaccinations (required in EU, Australia; not in U.S.)

  • Neuter/spay for behavior and cancer prevention



5. Legal Restrictions and Quarantine


Before relocation, check:

  • Destination country’s rules for rabbit import (some ban rabbit entry)

  • Quarantine requirements (Australia, NZ require 10–30 days)

  • Health certificate signed by USDA-accredited vet


Some countries consider rabbits agricultural animals—not pets—so paperwork differs significantly.



6. International Rabbit Relocation: What to Expect


Step-by-Step:

  1. Check import/export rules of both countries

  2. Contact the airline about rabbit acceptance (many only allow in cargo)

  3. Get a USDA-endorsed health certificate

  4. Apply for destination import permits (if needed)

  5. Book a direct, climate-controlled flight


IATA-Compliant Travel Crate:

  • Must allow bunny to stand, turn, and lie down

  • Use absorbent bedding (shredded paper or hay)

  • Attach frozen water bottles to prevent spillage

  • No sedatives (rabbits are sensitive to CNS depressants)





7. Post-Travel Adjustment


  • Monitor for signs of GI upset, stress, or dehydration

  • Recreate familiar enclosure and routine as much as possible

  • Reintroduce hay and favorite veggies gradually



8. 0x Cargo Pet Travel: Bunny-Smart International Relocation Services


We understand that relocating a rabbit requires gentle handling, temperature precision, and compliance with strict documentation procedures.


Our rabbit transport and export/import USA services include:

  • USDA health certificate prep

  • Custom-sized, airline-approved crates

  • Direct routing with minimal transfers

  • Coordination with quarantine facilities (if needed)

  • Real-time flight tracking and vet access



Final Thoughts: Rabbits Deserve Smooth Moves Too


Your bunny may be quiet, but they’re emotionally sensitive, highly aware of change, and rely on you for their entire world. When you relocate, plan early and thoroughly—and let experts handle the red tape.


Keywords included:rabbit relocation • rabbit transport • rabbit import USA • rabbit export USA • international rabbit shipping • USDA rabbit travel certificate


Need to move your bunny abroad?Contact 0x Cargo Pet Travel today to make your rabbit’s relocation safe, legal, and as stress-free as possible.


 
 
 

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