Rabbits are very popular pets because of their docile nature. But what about their cousins, the hare? Many people find these creatures fascinating because of their more dramatic appearance and their role in mythology. They may even dream of keeping a pet hare, but this isn’t a good idea because they aren’t domesticated animals. Luckily, there’s a species of pet rabbit known as the Belgian hare that bears a remarkable resemblance to wild hares.
In this guide, we’ll look at everything you need to know about hares and their alternatives.
Wild Hares Do Not Make Good Pets
Hares are fabulous animals, but unfortunately, they just don’t make good pets.
There are several varieties worldwide, including the European hare, the snowshoe hare, and the jackrabbit. These hares require massive territories, so it would be cruel to confine one to a hutch or cage. European hares may range for up to 300 acres while their cousins, the snowshoe hare, have smaller territories of about 12 acres.
Unlike rabbits, hares don’t burrow; instead, they prefer simple outdoor nests. They have very skittish temperaments, with their immediate defensive reaction being to sprint away. Hares can reach a top speed of 45 miles per hour. Furthermore, unlike with pet rabbits, there are no domesticated breeds. Keeping an adult pet hare would cause the animal intense stress. It’s better to appreciate these animals from afar.
Rescuing a Baby Hare: What to Know
Rescuing baby wild animals always causes ethical debates because well-meaning people may accidentally cause more harm than good. Most experts advise leaving seemingly abandoned baby hares alone unless there are obvious signs of injury or illness. Pet rabbits can have six or seven kits in a litter. A hare might only have two, so the mother may be simply ranging. If you think the hare requires intervention, you should contact an appropriate wildlife rescue agency to help you. Avoid touching the baby hare unless necessary.
Feeding a rescued baby hare (or leveret) is tricky, so avoid it unless you have no choice. Use a syringe to drop kitten milk replacer into its mouth. Never use cow’s milk because it can be toxic for them. After four weeks, you can feed them solid foods, including hay and leafy greens. You should be able to release the leveret after six weeks because it will be strong enough to fend for itself. Avoid the temptation of handling it too much because it will lead to stress. It’s not like a pet rabbit where bonding and socialization are critical.
Belgian Hares Make Good Pets
The best alternative to getting a wild European hare or jackrabbit is a Belgian hare. Don’t be fooled by the name because it’s a misnomer. Belgian hares are actually a selectively bred rabbit. It has many of the physical characteristics of a hare but has the personality of a pet rabbit. Belgian breeders helped create this breed in the 1800s before exporting specimens to the United States at the end of the 19th century.
They have similar elongated and slender bodies with long legs like true hares. Also, Belgian hares have black markings on their bodies, another trait they share with wild hares. They are quite large and can reach up to nine pounds in weight. Their owners love their long ears that can perk up and stand tall. Unlike wild hares, they can make good pets but have specific needs. These rabbits can live for up to 11 years in captivity.
Belgian Hares Are Skittish and Require Delicate Handling
Belgian hares are relatively intelligent and reputed to be a friendly rabbit breed. But sometimes, they’re skittish and prone to nerves. Owners should handle them with care because they may react nervously. Belgian hares have a habit of kicking when they feel afraid. Their instincts will take over, and it will cause them stress. We don’t recommend them for younger children because they’re less docile than other rabbit varieties. They’re also highly active, so consider different rabbit enrichment activities to keep them entertained. You can potty train Belgian hares and teach them to walk on a leash. Consider playing games with your rabbit, too.
Belgian Hares Primarily Eat Hay
Hay should be the main component of your pet rabbit’s diet. It contains high levels of fiber that help with digestive health and strong teeth. It should comprise about 70 percent of your rabbit’s overall diet. It’s also lower in calories than pellets or other food, which should only be provided sparingly. You may also give your Belgian hare green leaves like spinach or kale.
Your rabbit may have a weird habit of eating its own poo. Don’t worry about this because it’s normal for Belgian hares to consume their stool. It aids with digestion, even if it seems strange! Don’t forget to provide them with plenty of water. You should give your Belgian hares unlimited hay and water. However, it’s fine to give them other food like pellets and greens once per day. Don’t forget to remove any waste food so it doesn’t rot or attract unwanted visitors, like rats.
Belgian Hares Need Ample Space to Roam
Wild hares roam across massive territories. Luckily, Belgian hares don’t require as much space as their free-roaming cousins. You can keep them in a hutch with a width of at least 24 inches and a length of 60 inches. A bigger space is better because they are quite large and more active than other rabbit species. Experts recommend a run area of 27 square feet for a pair of Belgian hares. Pet rabbits enjoy being in neutered, opposite-sex pairs; avoid keeping same-sex rabbits because they may fight.
Provide straw bedding for your pet rabbits, and you can cover the floor with wood shavings. Also, situate the hutch in a safe area away from other pets like cats or dogs (especially warrenhounds!) that might harass your long-eared friends.
