THE HIDDEN COST OF AN EASTER BUNNY

A pet rabbit can cost almost as much as a family cat during its lifetime - an amazing £3000 - according to research by Britain’s pet charity, The Blue Cross.

With many rabbits handed over to The Blue Cross by owners who assumed the animals cost as little as hamsters or guinea pigs, the charity is urging people to consider the true costs involved in caring for a healthy, happy bunny.

Blue Cross adoption centre manager, Julie Stone, said: ”For anyone about to get their very own Easter bunny, just remember, rabbits are not cheap pets. Keeping a rabbit healthy means buying a hutch they can stand on tiptoe in, giving them fresh vegetables, and vaccinating them annually. The average rabbit lives for seven years and the cost of their upkeep can add up to over £3000. People should not get a rabbit expecting them to cost the same as a hamster – they don’t!”

Without the appropriate care, rabbits can develop health and behavioural problems. The Blue Cross warns that rabbits are complex animals that need just as much attention and commitment as a dog or cat.

All About Pets is The Blue Cross’s national pet care information service that aims to ensure the welfare of Britain’s pets by promoting responsible animal care. The All About Pets range of free information and advice on how to care for pets can be viewed at www.allaboutpets.co.uk

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Notes to editors

The Blue Cross is Britain's pet charity, providing practical support, information and advice for pet and horse owners. Through its network of animal adoption centres it rehomes thousands of animals each year. Its hospitals provide veterinary care for the pets of people who cannot afford private vets' fees.

Costs per rabbit per lifetime can include: Neutering £50; hutch and run £150, Myxomatosis and VHD vaccine £280, flystrike treatment £350, food £336, hay £420, vegetables £630, insurance £575.40, nail clipping £231. Total: £3022.40.

Flystrike should not happen to the rabbit unless it is being neglected, but can occur during the summer months. This can sometimes be paid for by pet insurance.

Media contact: Susan Crown, Direct Line: 020 7932 4066