Introduction
Rabbits are masters at hiding signs of illness. This is a survival instinct, as in the wild, appearing weak or sick makes them an easy target for predators. As a result, pet rabbit owners need to be particularly observant and attentive to their rabbit’s behavior and habits. Recognizing what to do if your rabbit gets sick is crucial for their wellbeing.
Recognizing the Signs of Illness
Rabbits are creatures of habit. Any deviation from their normal behavior could be a sign of illness. Here are some signs to look out for:
Changes in Behavior
If your usually active rabbit is now lying in the back of the cage, perhaps hunched over, this could be a cause for concern. Similarly, if your rabbit who usually greets you with leaps and bounds suddenly stops, it’s an immediate cause for concern.
Changes in Eating and Drinking Habits
Rabbits who are ill may eat less or refuse certain foods. A change in thirst levels can also be a sign of illness. If your rabbit refuses their usual fresh food or any of their special treats for more than a day, you should call the vet.
Changes in Stool
Your rabbit’s litterbox can provide a wealth of information. A healthy digestive tract will produce large, round fecal pellets. Increasingly smaller, irregularly shaped droppings or droppings strung together with fur may indicate a problem.
Physical Signs
Loud tooth grinding, very cold or hot ears, runny eyes or nose, labored breathing or chronic sneezing, wet chin or drooling, and loss of balance or a head tilt are all signs that your rabbit may be sick and needs to see a vet.
Physical Changes
Physical changes such as weight loss, a dull coat, or a bloated stomach can also indicate illness. If your rabbit’s stomach is distended or hard, or if touching their stomach appears to cause them pain, seek help immediately.
Respiratory Issues
If your rabbit exhibits raspy or heavy breathing, or if they lift their nose high in the air to breathe, they may have a lower respiratory infection, a critical illness that requires immediate expert care.
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What to Do If Your Rabbit Is Sick
If you notice any of the above signs, it’s crucial to act quickly. Unlike with other pets like cats and dogs, we should never take a ‘wait and see’ approach with our rabbits. If we think they’re unwell, they very likely are. At the first signs of something not being right, they should be brought to the vet immediately.
Veterinary Care for Sick Rabbits
The first thing the vet will do is to check the rabbit over and stabilize them if needed. An unwell rabbit is at high risk of gut stasis (bloat), especially if they have not been eating much. So, many will benefit from supplemental fluids and feeds. Similarly, a rabbit may need injectable medicine to help keep their gut moving and provide pain relief.
Once stable, the vet will try to treat the underlying issue. For example, if a rabbit has a urinary infection, they will be given antibiotics. Or, if they have overgrown teeth, they will be burred down.
Conclusion
When it comes to rabbits, time is of the essence. As soon as we pick up on subtle signs of illness, it’s time for a trip to the vet. Regular check-ups and preventive care can also help ensure your rabbit’s wellbeing. Remember, each rabbit is different, and knowing what is normal behavior for your rabbit could save their life.
References
Please note that the information provided in this post is based on general knowledge and experience with pet rabbits. For specific advice and information, always consult with a professional or trusted source.
