RABBIT AILMENTS

Domestic rabbits are less resilient than their wilder cousins because they are protected from harm and they do not have to find their own food. If they become ill it will not be because they are starved of food or water, it will be because they have an illness. Your rabbit can live between six and ten years depending on the breed.

There are certain signs to look out for if you think your rabbit is unwell. These are: Skin sores, Obesity or weight loss, Overgrown teeth, Lumps on the skin, Bloodshot or weeping eyes, Dull coat, and Runny nose.

Rabbits suffer more from the heat than from the cold so make sure your rabbit's hutch is not left in full sunlight.There are water bottle covers, hutch and run covers that keep an even temperature all year round and stop green algae forming in the water bottle in the summer.
 

Agoraphobia

All rabbits hate being in exposed spaces because in the wild they are easily spotted so your rabbit will need a large hutch and a covered area to hide in if he feels threatened by someone approaching. If you have a run for your rabbit he will need part of it covered to make him feel safe from other animals and the weather. Make sure your rabbit has some things to hide inside such as a plant pot or drainpipe to make him feel safe.

Anorexia

It is unusual for a rabbit to stop eating through choice, it is more likely to be because of a state of mind due to a sudden change in circumstances. Losing an owner or neglect or cruelty can all cause the rabbit feelings of insecurity. If you are sure that it is not emotional problems that stop your rabbit from eating then it could be that he has a dislocated jaw. If you suspect this then you should contact your vet. Sadly, old rabbits stop eating when they are nearing the end of their life.

 
  Bordetellosis

This is a bacterial infection that causes bronchial problems. The causes are sneezing, laboured breathing, a runny nose, listlessness and lack of appetite. Your vet will be able to X ray your rabbit for a full diagnosis and treat the rabbit before the disease gets worse as it could turn into a more serious problem such as pneumonia.

Constipation

Rabbits are unlikely to suffer from constipation as their fibre rich diet and fresh fruit keep them regular. However, if your rabbit is not leaving enough pellets or they are small and hard it could be because he is not getting enough fibre so giving your rabbit some fresh greens and make sure he has fresh water every day. Ensure the water bottle never runs dry. If there are no droppings contact your vet immediately.

Diarrhoea

Rabbits do not usually suffer from diarrhoea either and the most common cause is too much fibre and not enough starch in the diet. What your rabbit is able to eat from his run may also give him diarrhoea as some of the new spring shoots have high laxative properties. If after all this your rabbit still suffers a trip to the vet is necessary.

 

 

If you are looking for rabbit ailment information, the following links may also be of interest to you: see also rabbit problems.

 

Enteritis

The digestive system of the rabbit is very effective so any changes to the balance can seriously affect the rabbit's health. Enteritis is caused by an infection or the inflammation of the intestines. It is usually caused by the wrong diet, stress or certain antibiotics and the symptoms are: Severe teeth grinding, diarrhoea, bloating, lack of appetite, weight loss and bulging eyes. To avoid this problem give your rabbit a sensible diet and avoid changing it too suddenly as this could change the amount of bacteria in the gut and cause enteritis. You vet should be consulted if you suspect  your rabbit is suffering from this.

Enterotoxemia

Enterotoxemia is a serious condition and your rabbit should immediately be taken to the vet if you think he may be suffering from this. It can cause sudden death. It is a disorder caused by lots of harmful bacteria entering the digestive tract which can produce poisonous toxins. Symptoms include diarrhoea, listlessness and lack of appetite.

Fleas

Rabbits can get fleas from other animals but your vet can give you flea powders to use on your rabbit which are very effective.

  

 

 

 
 
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