# How Long Do Rabbits Live?

> Rabbit lifespan is typically 8–12 years (pet); 1–2 years (wild). What shortens or extends life, life stages, and status (Domesticated).

- **Species:** Rabbit (*Oryctolagus cuniculus*)
- **Conservation status:** Domesticated
- **Diet:** Herbivore
- **Habitat:** Grassland and woodland; domestic worldwide
- **Lifespan:** 8–12 years (pet); 1–2 years (wild)
- **Top speed:** Up to 56 km/h (35 mph)
- **Canonical HTML:** https://globalanimalguide.org/animals/rabbit/how-long-do-rabbits-live/
- **Parent profile:** https://globalanimalguide.org/animals/rabbit/
- **Last reviewed:** 2026-07-16

## Quick answer

The rabbit is a small, fast-breeding mammal kept worldwide as a popular pet and found in the wild across grasslands and woodlands. Domestic rabbits descend from the wild European rabbit, have nearly 360-degree vision, and can live 8 to 12 years with good care. They communicate through body language such as thumping and joyful leaps called binkies.

## Who should skip this page

Skip this if you need a prognosis for one named animal. This page is a species lifespan range.

## Built to escape

Rabbits are prey animals built to detect and flee danger. Their eyes sit high on the sides of the head, giving nearly 360-degree vision to spot predators, and their long, powerful hind legs let them run in fast zigzags. A hard thump of the back foot warns other rabbits of danger.

## Help protect the Rabbit

Rabbits are among the most abandoned pets, often surrendered or released once the novelty fades.

[Donate to animal rescue](https://worldanimalrescuenetwork.org/donate/)

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Source: Global Animal Guide (https://globalanimalguide.org/animals/rabbit/how-long-do-rabbits-live/). Licensed CC BY-NC 4.0 — free for non-commercial reuse with attribution.