Common Cottontail Suggestions

Bunnies play dead and then jump at the first chance they get, which can lead to spinal injuries after rescue. Please avoid handling them and keep them contained until rescue assistance arrives.

• Cow’s milk makes bunnies sick.
• Use goat’s milk or kitten replacement formula only.
• Do not feed cold or dehydrated animals. It is more important to get them to a wildlife center. Cold and dehydrated animals are in shock and cannot digest food.
• Bunnies with closed eyes need to be stimulated to potty, or their bladder can rupture. Failure to toilet them can cause their bladder to rupture.
• Secure the animal in a carrier with a soft towel, away from pets and children. Comfort the animal by providing warmth in a dark, quiet area where it can rest and help transport to a wildlife rescue.

Cottontail Rescue Tips

Mother rabbits don’t abandon their nests. They only tend to babies a few times a night to quickly feed them. Babies are left alone in shallow divots in grass, garden beds, under woodpiles, and in junk piles. If the animal is healthy and the nest was inadvertently destroyed, it is always best to try to reconfigure the destroyed area and let the mother come back to continue her care

It is normal to see bunnies with eyes open and no parent. This is normal and these guys should not be rushed to rehab. Bunnies accidentally taken at this age have a low rate of survival. They stress easy and they still need their Mom . If you believe the animal is in need of assistance, please call a rehab center.