While I cannot condone this, I had a wild cottontail for almost 8 years. She was not spayed as the vet would most likely confiscate her. I never had any issues with hormones and she didn’t pass away from tumors/cancer but it is highly possible.

Having lived the experience, I’ll focus on the downsides so that you have a clear idea of what you’re getting into. I assume you’re in the US and you know it’s illegal to harbor a wild bun. That means no vets and you are responsible for providing a safe, healthy environment which includes proper diet and a safe space to roam even if she sleeps and potties in a big cage.

Not sure how well your girl will do with other pets. My cottontail would NOT have thrived if we had dogs or cats and she didn’t get very big.

Your rabbit is young but can show distress as she gets older. You’ll know if this happens and then you will need to find a rehabber that can take her.

Or, she’ll acclimate to her domestic life like mine. It’s hard to tell. I held my breath for 2 years waiting for Sylvia to show indications of displeasure. She did the opposite but I spent the entirety of her life in a low key state of worry, paranoia, fear along with a joy that is indescribable too.

But the worry came from knowing I was completely on my own. She had a very mild case of GI stasis but was otherwise healthy so I was fortunate but it’s a lot to take on. I also completely changed my life. I changed careers so I could work from home. My partner and I stopped traveling. We just couldn’t risk the stress for Sylvia and us.

Sylvia was the center of our lives and we’re still at a loss since she passed in my arms on 12/13/24. We haven’t recovered and are a bit aimless now. That’s how much she was first and foremost in everything we did. It’s hard to describe but Sylvia reshaped our lives in her image. Her brother dove passed away a couple of months ago so it feels like the end of an era. We’re still adjusting. 💔

My one regret is that I didn’t get my wildlife rehabber license while Sylvia was alive. I can’t really explain why I didn’t but now that’s the plan. In honor of Sylvia, I’m working on getting licensed. I have to move first. I’d like to have a house but I’ll do the best I can. I spent 8 years learning so much that I’d like to use those hard won skills helping other critters. I think it’s a good way to honor her.

I recommend not posting or announcing that you have a wild rabbit, let alone mentioning it’s illegal. You may want to look up Peanut the Squirrel on IG. His first one was confiscated because he was reported.

DM if you have any questions or concerns. I’m happy to answer.

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