You walk into a pet shop or rescue center and see a row of soft, twitching noses. Each rabbit looks adorable, but how do you know which one is healthy and ready for a new home?

Picking a rabbit is about more than just falling in love with the cutest face. It's about careful observation and asking the right questions to ensure your future pet is thriving.

Check the eyes, nose, and ears

A healthy rabbit's eyes are bright, clear, and free from discharge. Any crust, cloudiness, or squinting could signal infection or injury. The nose should be dry and clean, without sneezing or wetness around the nostrils. Gently glance at the ears, too—there shouldn't be redness, scabs, or signs of mites. These small checks can reveal a lot about the rabbit's overall health.

Look at the coat and skin

A rabbit's fur tells a story. A healthy one has a smooth, shiny coat without bald patches or excessive shedding. Run your fingers gently along its back to feel for lumps, bumps, or sores under the fur. Check for dandruff or tiny moving specks, which could be mites. Skin issues are often a sign of stress, poor diet, or untreated parasites, so it's worth inspecting carefully.

Assess body condition and weight

Rabbits should feel neither bony nor overly padded. Place your hand along the sides of the body: you should feel ribs beneath a thin layer of muscle and lipids. A rabbit that's too thin might be sick or underfed, while one that's overweight could have diet-related issues. Balanced weight reflects good care and nutrition.

Watch how it moves

A healthy rabbit is alert and moves with ease. Observe how it hops, stands, and sits. Limping, dragging a leg, or sitting hunched could mean pain or injury. Notice if it's curious about its surroundings or stays crouched in the corner—energy and posture often reveal how well a rabbit feels.

Check the teeth

Rabbits' teeth never stop growing, so proper alignment is vital. Ask the seller or caretaker to show the front teeth. They should be even, not overgrown or crooked. Overgrown teeth can cause pain, drooling, and trouble eating. If possible, ask about the rabbit's diet—plenty of hay helps keep teeth naturally worn down.

Look at droppings and litter habits

Healthy rabbits produce lots of round, firm droppings. Uneven or mushy stools can be an early warning sign of digestive trouble. Check the enclosure for evidence of consistent, normal waste. Also, note whether the rabbit uses a litter area—this can indicate both health and how easy it may be to train at home.

Ask about history and care

Don't be shy about asking questions. Find out:

1. How old is the rabbit?

2. Has it been vaccinated (if required locally) or checked by a vet?

3. What's its current diet?

4. Has it been socialized with people or other animals?

The answers will tell you about the rabbit's background, health, and temperament. A responsible breeder, shelter, or shop should be transparent about this information.

Observe temperament and interaction

Every rabbit has a personality. Some are shy and need gentle handling, while others are naturally curious. Spend a few minutes quietly sitting near the rabbit. Does it approach you? Does it flinch or bite when touched? A healthy, well-socialized rabbit is usually calm and interested in people, though young or nervous ones may need time to warm up.

Signs of a stressed or sick rabbit

Be cautious if you see:

• Labored breathing or frequent sneezing

• Discharge from eyes or nose

• Bald spots or scabs on the skin

• Overgrown teeth or drooling

• Refusal to eat or drink

These signs don't automatically disqualify the rabbit, but they mean it needs a vet check before adoption.

Taking home the right rabbit

Once you've chosen a healthy rabbit, prepare a quiet, comfortable space for it to settle in. Bring along some of the food it's used to, and gradually transition to your preferred diet. Book a vet appointment within the first week for a wellness check.

Choosing a healthy rabbit is about patience and observation. By checking its body, behavior, and history, you're setting up both you and your new pet for success. That first day you bring it home, you'll know you've done everything you can to start your life together on the right paw.