Should I keep a cottontail?

[ilikelunch]

A week or two ago I rescued a 3 month old bunny. The family said if I didn't take her they were going to release her into the wild which I know is dangerous for rabbits, especially when they're raised domestic. However, they told me she was a cottontail, and I just found out having cottontails are illegal, plus she's been stealing all the food from the other female rabbit we were bonding her with, and the other rabbit is totally starving now. Do I keep the precious little girl or not since it's illegal? What do I do?

 

[Watermelons]

A good photo may help ID her...

 

[Blue eyes]

Some domestic rabbits can be mistaken for cottontails. Some people have thought that of my domestic rabbit.

 

[ilikelunch]

It's hard to get a good picture of her, she doesn't like being picked up and burrows into my lap when I hold her. This was the best I could do for right now. Her body is pretty long and thinner, and her nose is more pointy looking than it looks in these photos. She also has pretty big ears compare to the other rabbits I have.

 

[Augustus&HazelGrace]

She is definitely NOT a cottontail. And it's totally legal to keep her.

 

[Blue eyes]

Agreed. No way is she a cottontail.

If the people told you her correct age, then she is probably hormonal (or about to be). That could make her grumpy, more stand-off-ish, and/or less agreeable to tolerating another rabbit. Normally one should have all rabbits spayed before attempting a bond. Hormonal rabbits can suddenly turn and fight another rabbit. Just thought I should mention that in case you were not aware.

 

[jess24rose]

yep she's not a cottontail

 

[Nancy Werts]

I'm thinking Silver Fox

 

[Anna R.]

She sure is cute. No way a cotton tail. She is getting used to a new home, and if the family that had was going to release her she may not have been getting a lot of attention or love. Give her a chance to warm up to her new surroundings, and total new life. She sure looks very sweet. Just be patient with her, all is new for her now.

 

[DenMother]

Not a cottontail so I hope you're happy with your new pet! I'd suggest separating your rabbits for a while, confining the new one to a cage so the other one doesn't feel like their space is being infringed upon. This will also keep your... nottontail (lol) from eating the other bun's food. Increase space for the new bun gradually and they should integrate in no time! Best of luck

 

[Nancy McClelland]

Make sure both are neutered and since we only feed in the am and pm, it's easy for us to keep feed in their separate hutches then let them out to run.