How Long Do Rabbits Live? Complete Lifespan Guide
Discover how long pet rabbits live, from dwarf to giant breeds. Learn average lifespans, life stages, health factors, and tips to help your rabbit live longer.
Rabbits live longer than most people think. With proper indoor housing, nutrition, and good veterinary care, pet rabbits can live as long as medium-sized dogs.
This complete guide covers average lifespans, how size and breed affect longevity, the big differences between wild and pet rabbits, and key tips for extending lifespan. For a personalized estimate, use the Rabbit Age Calculator .
Average Lifespan of Pet Rabbits
Most pet rabbits live 8–12 years with good care. Smaller breeds often live the longest.
Wild rabbits live only 1–3 years due to predators and harsh conditions.
See your rabbit’s “human age” with the Rabbit Age Calculator.
Rabbit Lifespan by Type
Different types of rabbits have different lifespan ranges:
Life Stages of Rabbits
Rabbits pass through predictable developmental stages:
Key Factors That Affect Rabbit Lifespan
1. Indoor vs Outdoor
- Indoor rabbits live significantly longer.
- Outdoor rabbits face parasites, weather extremes, predators.
2. Diet
- Main diet of hay (timothy, orchard grass)
- Measured pellets
- Fresh leafy greens daily
3. Spay/Neuter
- Spaying females prevents uterine cancer.
- Neutered males are calmer and healthier.
4. Veterinary Care
- Rabbit-savvy vet visits yearly
- Early treatment for dental disease & GI stasis
5. Exercise & Enrichment
- Daily free-roam time
- Toys and safe chewing options
- Bonding and social interaction
Conclusion
Pet rabbits can live 8–12+ years with proper care. To see your rabbit’s life stage and human-age equivalent, try the Rabbit Age Calculator .
FAQ
How long do pet rabbits live?
Most indoor pet rabbits live 8–12 years.
Which rabbits live the longest?
Small and dwarf breeds often reach 10–12+ years.
Why do wild rabbits live so little?
Predators, weather, food scarcity, disease.