How to Convince Your Parents to Let You Buy a Bunny

Co-authored by Chandler Chang, PhD and Amber Crain

Last Updated: February 6, 2023 References Approved

Rabbits can be wonderful and loving pets, but your parents may have reservations about adopting one. If you're looking for guidance on how to convince them, you've come to the right place! In this article, we'll walk you through everything you need to know so you can approach your parents the right way and present your case. If you're ready to get started, scroll on down. Good luck!

Things You Should Know

Research the basics of rabbit care before you talk to your parents. This shows them that you're prepared and serious about getting a bunny.
Make your request when your parents are relaxed. Use a calm, mature tone of voice to explain that you want a rabbit.
Offer to demonstrate your responsibility and provide solutions if your parents mention specific concerns or problems.

1

Research basic rabbit care.

Learning the basics will show your parents that you're serious. Spend some time online looking up the basics of rabbit care on websites like the Humane Society or RSPCA. Here are some important bunny facts to know:
- Rabbits usually live in cages stocked with wood shavings.
- Rabbits primarily eat grass hay, dark green vegetables, and pellets.
- Bunnies need to be socialized and handled properly.
- Rabbits need to be bathed and groomed regularly.
- Rabbits usually live 5-8 years, but they can live up to 12 years.^{[1]
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2

Make a list of concerns your parents may have.

Common concerns about owning a rabbit include cost and upkeep. Luckily, most concerns can be addressed if you're proactive about finding solutions. Ask yourself why your parents may say "No" and jot down a list of potential reasons they may refuse.^{[2]
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The Humane Society of the United States
National organization devoted to the promotion of animal welfare
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- The cost of having a pet rabbit. Adoption fees, rabbit food, and other supplies (like their hutch or cages, litter box, wood shavings, chew toys, etc.) can add up fast!^{[3]
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- The time required for upkeep. Your parents will want to know that you're willing to take the time to care for your rabbit properly.
- The routine cleaning required. Some people tend to think of rabbits as messy pets. Your parents may worry about things like a smelly rabbit cage.
- The space required. Your parents will want to make sure your home has the available space to accommodate the rabbit’s cage and other needs.

3

Prepare solutions for their potential concerns.

Providing immediate solutions will impress your parents. Find a clear and specific way to deal with each concern on your list. That way, if your parents raise them while you're talking, you can offer solutions immediately. This shows your parents that you've put a lot of mature thought into this. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
- If cost is an issue: offer to get a part time job or put your allowance toward to pay for the rabbit's care.
- If upkeep is a problem: look at your own schedule. Find pockets of time each day where you can commit to caring for your rabbit.
- If cleanliness is an issue: offer to clean the cage every other day and keep it in your room to address concerns about smell. If your parents worry about messes, let them know rabbits can be litter trained.^{[4]
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- If space is a concern: scout out an available area in the house and clean it so it’s ready to go. You need space for a fairly large cage, plus at least one rabbit-proofed room in your home.^{[5]
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  The Humane Society of the United States
  National organization devoted to the promotion of animal welfare
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4

Practice what you're going to say.

Practicing your request can help you feel less nervous. It's normal to be nervous if you're making a big request. Practicing ahead of time can help you feel more prepared and you'll feel calmer once the conversation starts. You can jot down a rough idea of what you want to say and then rehearse in front of a mirror.
- Don't write out exactly what you're going to say or try to memorize anything—you want to have room to improvise. Just jot down a rough idea and read over it a few times.

5

Pick a good time to talk to your parents.

Make your request when your parents are relaxed and calm. If your parents seem busy or annoyed, it’s probably not a good time to ask them for something. You want to approach your parents when they're in a good mood, so look for times when they're not busy.^{[6]
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- For example, talk to them on a Saturday afternoon instead of a busy weeknight.
- Say something like, "Guys, do you have a minute? I wanted to ask you something."

6

Make your request in clear, direct way.

Use a calm tone of voice to explain that you want a rabbit. Emphasize that you’ve already done a lot of research about rabbit care and the costs associated with pet bunnies. Tell them that you’re prepared to answer any questions they may have.^{[7]
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- Say something like, "So, I really want to get a pet rabbit. I've been reading a lot online, so I know all about taking care of one. I think I could do this by myself and it wouldn't create extra work for you."
- Provide a good reason for your request—this may help convince your parents to agree to what you're asking.

7

Listen to your parents' perspective.

Give them your full attention when they respond to your request. Really listen to what they're saying and try to understand their concerns. The better you understand what they're worried about, the easier time you'll have addressing their concerns.^{[8]
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- Nod along as your parents make their points to show them that you're listening.

8

Offer to compromise or demonstrate your responsibility.

There may be ways to meet your parents halfway on the issue. Listen to your parents' concerns and see if you can find a compromise that works for everyone. Since you've already researched solutions for their potential concerns, you should have a few answers ready!^{[9]
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- Offer to show them how responsible you are, explain how you plan to help with costs, or bargain with your parents to get them to change their minds.
- If your parents are concerned about the smell of the rabbit, offer to keep it in an outdoor shelter most of the time instead of the house.^{[10]
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- Ask if you can earn it in some way. For example, promise to bring your grades up if your parents agree to let you have a rabbit.

9

Tell them you don't need an answer today.

Give them time to think about your request instead of pressing them. If you think your parents are going to need a lot of convincing, your best bet is to give them time. Otherwise, they’ll probably just shut you down right away. Having a little extra time will also give you a chance to prove yourself to them.
- Say something like, “I just wanted to tell you what I’ve been thinking. You don’t have to respond right now. I understand if you want to take time to think about it and I’m willing to prove to you that I can do this.”
- Basic manners can also go a long way. For example, "Could you please think about it? Thanks!"

10

Ask them why if they say "No."

If you know why they're saying no, you can come up with potential solutions. This can also give you an opportunity to address any specific concerns they have and potentially look for a compromise. Just make sure you ask them to explain their reasoning politely.^{[11]
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- Say something like, "Can you please tell me why you're saying 'No?' I just want to understand better."

11

Avoid arguing if your parents still refuse.

Even if you're frustrated, fighting with your parents won't help. This makes it more likely your parents will say stick to their guns about this. Instead, accept a "No" for now. Calmly accept their answer without complaining.^{[12]
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- If you get frustrated, take a few deep breaths. Remind yourself being mature may help persuade your parents.
- End the conversation on a good note. Say something like, "Thanks for listening anyway. I really appreciate it."

Expert Q&A

Question

What do indoor rabbits need?

Jamie Freyer, DVM
Licensed Veterinarian
Dr. Jamie Freyer is a Licensed Doctor of Veterinary Medicine based in Washington. With over ten years of experience in clinical practice and industry, she specializes in veterinary medicine and surgery, animal behavior, and animal genetics. Dr. Freyer holds a BS in Life Science from The University of Portland and a DVM from Oregon State University.

Jamie Freyer, DVM

Licensed Veterinarian

Expert Answer

It's nice to give them a nice crate to go into, but it's a good idea to let them get out of that for a bit. Make sure they have an environment where there's lots of fun things for them to do, but keep them away from things that could end up hurting them, such as wires. Buy high quality rabbit food, timothy hay, and a selection of green veggies.
Question

What if they tell me to wait a few weeks to talk about it?

Community Answer

Give your parents the time to think it over. It's reasonable that your parents want time to consider such a big decision, so let them have that space.
Question

Will this work for any pet?

Community Answer

This is a good general guide for a variety of pets. Just make sure to research the specific pet you're adopting.