Does Tractor Supply Sell Rabbits in 2024? What to Know
If you’re considering getting a pet rabbit, you may be wondering: does Tractor Supply sell rabbits? With over 21 million American households now owning a pet rabbit (APA, 2022), they are growing in popularity as family-friendly companions. However, Tractor Supply has not sold live rabbits for several years.
Why Major Retailers Stopped Selling Rabbits
Back in 2014, Tractor Supply Co. stopped selling live rabbits at all of its over 1,900 locations across 49 states. This decision came after appeals from animal advocacy groups like the House Rabbit Society, who argued that selling rabbits on impulse leads to mistreatment and neglect down the line.
Petco soon followed suit, ending live rabbit sales in 2016. Their decision aligned with efforts to tackle "the humane treatment of reptiles and small animals" (Petco).
By eliminating rabbit sales, these major retailers aimed to curb impulse buys and better promote rabbit welfare. Rabbits require lots of specialized care and live 10+ years. When people get "Easter bunnies" on a whim without doing research, the animals often end up abandoned.
Rabbit Ownership and Care Needs Statistics
- Est. 6.9 million households own a pet rabbit (APA, 2022)
- Average lifetime cost for a pet rabbit is $7,850 (Protect My Pet)
- Rabbits have a lifespan of 8-12 years on average
- Ideal home temperature for a rabbit is 60-70° Fahrenheit
- Daily diet for a 10 lb rabbit: 1/2 cup pellets, ~5 cups vegetables, and unlimited hay (HRS)
As evident in the data, rabbits are not simple pets. They have extensive care requirements that prospective owners need to thoroughly research beforehand.
Where Can You Get Rabbits in 2024?
Just because major stores like Tractor Supply no longer sell rabbits does not mean there aren’t still great ways to adopt or buy one:
Adopt From An Animal Shelter or Rescue
This is often the most ethical and affordable option. Adoption fees typically range from $25-100. The House Rabbit Society lists state-by-state rabbit rescues here.
Check Local 4H Groups
Many 4H members raise rabbits as projects and have young ones available for purchase around springtime at reasonable prices.
Purchase From Reputable Rabbit Breeders
A good rabbit breeder will health test their rabbits, offer care advice, and be selective about who they sell to. Expect pricing between $50-200 depending on breed and lineage. The American Rabbit Breeders Association has a directory.
Take in an Accidental Litter
Friends, family, or community members sometimes end up with surprise baby bunnies and need to rehome them responsibly. Offer a small fee or donation to ensure they go to caring homes.
| Source | Rabbit Pricing | Other Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Shelters/Rescues | $25-$100 | Mixed breeds, health varies greatly, saves a life |
| 4H Members | $20-$75 | Supports youth agriculture education |
| Breeders | $50-$200 | Purebred, predictable temperament, health guarantees |
| Accidental Litters | Free-$50 | Higher risks – get vet records, handle carefully |
Table 1. Overview of common rabbit sources and what to consider
What Rabbit Supplies Does Tractor Supply Sell?
Tractor Supply may not sell actual live rabbits anymore, but they still carry a huge array of essentials to house, feed, and care for pet rabbits:
Hutches & Housing: A variety of indoor cages, outdoor hutches, exercise pens, etc. Prices from $40-500
Food: Specialized rabbit pellets, treats, timothy hay, alfalfa, vitamin supplements, etc.
Bedding: Pine shavings, carefresh, aspens, grass hays
Gear: Water bottles, bowls, litter boxes, grooming tools, nail trimmers
Safety: Playpens, gates, puppy pads, rabit-safe cleaners
Their affordably priced supplies and wide selector cater nicely to bunny owners. Just be wary of getting the Novalek Rabbit Hutch with Pull Out Tray – it has mixed reviews and quality issues per some customers.
Expert Tips on Preparing For a Pet Rabbit
"Rabbits require a big time and financial commitment," cautions Dr. Sarah Mike, rabbit veterinarian. "From housing set-up, "bunny-proofing" your home, proper diet, and finding an exotic vet, make sure you extensively research having a rabbit ahead of time."
Some key tips from Dr. Mike:
- Baby bunnies under 12 weeks have higher care needs – consider adopting older
- Create both a permanent enclosed home base and rabbit play area
- Rabbit-savvy vet care runs $75+ per visit
- Hay should comprise >70% of a rabbit‘s diet
- Adopt in pairs – rabbits are highly social!
Thorough preparation will set you and your future bunny up for health, happiness, and years of rewarding companionship together! Reach out to local care experts for guidance.
The Verdict: Tractor Supply Won‘t Sell You a Rabbit But Can Help You Care For One!
In summary, Tractor Supply made the decision several years back to stop selling live rabbits at any of their retail stores. Leading pet retailers like Petco followed to promote animal welfare and reduce impulse rabbit purchases leading to neglect.
Yet there remain wonderful ethical options for adopting or buying a rabbit in 2024 if you do your homework on their extensive care needs in advance.
And even though they don‘t sell actual rabbits, Tractor Supply does market a wide range of hutches to housing supplies that can help keep your bunny healthy and happy in your home!
So visit your local store or order online to save on feeders, habitats, bedding and more for your fuzzy friend!
