Can you set a domesticated rabbit free?

No, you can't let a rabbit go in the wild.

Wild rabbits evolved where they live, so in a way they're built for their environment: they can survive the weather, and there are wild foods nearby that they can eat.

Unless the wild rabbits around you are the European Rabbit species (and if you live on the continent of America, then they aren't), then none of this is true for pet rabbits. Pet rabbits evolved in the Mediterranean region, so they can eat the wild plants there, and they can't withstand very cold or very hot weather.

Wild rabbits were taught how to survive by their parents, so they know how to make shelters, and where to find food, and what kinds of foods are healthy, and how to escape from predators.

Pet rabbits don't know any of these things. What your pet rabbit knows is you, and your home. It knows human beings and human-made environments, with food and shelter provided and no predators. It doesn't know how to survive in the wild.

IF YOU NEED TO REHOME YOUR RABBIT

Do all of these things:

• Contact local shelters
• Contact local rabbit or small animal rescue organizations
• Talk to your vet
• Research rabbit care and behaviour (whatever problem you're having with your bunny, maybe it's really easy to solve and you just didn't know!!!)

If all else fails, consider looking around for someone to take your bunny. But THINK CAREFULLY ABOUT THIS.

Don't give your bunny away to just anyone. Ask friends about their friends, talk to acquaintances, etc. Talk to them about what they think of animals. Are they prepared for the responsibility? Are they considerate, loving people? If you're considering strangers, then screen them. Interview them!

Once you've decided on the new owner, make sure they have the tools they need to care for the bunny properly:

• Info about rabbit care and behaviour -- print out a package of basic info from a website like the House Rabbit Society, and give them a list of good websites and online rabbit discussion boards and forums
• A list of local rabbit supply stores
• Records from the last vet appointment and contact info for the vet
• Full bags of supplies

Check in on the bunny for the next little while -- and help her new owner, if she has any questions or encounters any trouble!