Hi,

We have recently been given a rabbit. I have learned a lot on the the care of a rabbit from your site. Thank-you. There has been "concern" from some that a rabbit may not be the best pet for our home as it may cause allergies or diseases for my children. The allergy I could understand, IF they are going to have one as like any other from dogs/cats. However, what possible disease could be passed on to us from a rabbit if any? I keep her cage very clean. I find I'm changing it 3 times a week. Can you tell me if there is any need to be concerned on this?

Thank-you in advance

The things you could get from a rabbit really don't differ in general from those of any pet. Basically, there are parasites like ticks and fleas that any healthy rabbit should not have. Rabbit mites are specific to rabbits though and won't jump to humans. Then, there is the threat of fecal bacteria. This goes with any feces. If someone accidently or purposely injests feces, the E coli and other fecal bacteria can cause symptoms similar to food poisoning. Just keep the cage clean and wash hands after playing with the bun. I can't think of a "disease" that rabbits can pass to humans. I'm very slightly allergic to my buns (but not to cats or dogs) but have never caught anything from them. For more information, see rabbit.org