Nearly 1.5 million U.S. households have pet rabbits. But in spite of this statistic, misconceptions about these lively guys abound.

While they top out on the cuteness scale, rabbits have some trying traits, like their penchant for digging and chewing. And bunnies are high-maintenance pets, given their need for hay and fresh veggies every day.

Their low cost and cuddly looks often make rabbits impulse buys, especially as gifts for children. But they can live for 10 years or longer. What’s more, rabbits and kids often mix like oil and water; held tightly in a child’s hug, rabbits can panic and lash out. But if not held securely enough, a rabbit can fall from a child’s arms and be seriously injured.

If you know all this and are still committed to owning a long-eared companion, you might have what it takes to be a rabbit person for life.