Rabbits have great character, and can be fascinating and rewarding pets, but they need the right environment. Unfortunately too many are sentenced to sad and lonely lives in cramped hutches at the bottoms of gardens. Most rabbits don’t really make ideal children’s pets – they’re quite strong and often don’t like handling. They’re certainly not cuddly toys!

Rabbits are naturally social animals, and are really best kept in small family groups or pairs, but "strangers" are often incompatible. They need human company, time and attention, especially when kept alone.

Accommodation needs to be comfortable and safe, not a prison. The hutch should be as large as possible, tall enough for the rabbit to stand on his hind legs. There needs to be a closed-in sleeping compartment, and the hutch must be raised off the ground and shaded from direct sun. Of course bedding must be kept clean and changed regularly. The rabbit also needs access to a run or secure garden, with toys or tunnels for exercise and interest.

How about a house rabbit? They can be trained to use a litter tray quite easily, and can be great companions, but you’ll need to rabbit-proof wires and potentially poisonous houseplants. They can be determined furniture climbers! House rabbits still need safe access to outdoors.

Feed your rabbit plenty of fresh hay and grass (not clippings) every day, and a small amount of concentrated rabbit food. Rabbits enjoy fresh vegetables, but lettuce can be dangerous. Carrots and fruit are good as occasional treats, but stick mainly to leafy vegetables, for the sake of your rabbit’s teeth and weight. Fresh water must always be available.

To keep rabbits healthy, they should be vaccinated every year against myxomatosis and viral haemhorragic disease. Claws and teeth need to be checked regularly by a vet. Your rabbit should be groomed regularly, and make sure his bottom stays clean and dry.

Neutering is strongly advised for both bucks and does. It doesn’t change a rabbit’s personality, but lessens aggressive or anti-social behaviour and reduces frustration for the rabbit. Female rabbits are very prone to uterine cancer, which is avoided by spaying.