Rabbits are prey animals by nature, which means they often hide signs of illness until conditions become advanced. Regular observation, preventive care, and veterinary visits are essential to ensuring your rabbit lives a long and healthy life.
Nutrition: The Foundation of Rabbit Health
- Hay First: Unlimited fresh hay (like Timothy or Meadow hay) is the most important part of a rabbit’s diet. It aids digestion and keeps teeth healthy.
- Fresh Greens: Daily servings of leafy vegetables such as romaine lettuce, kale, parsley, and cilantro.
- Pellets: Limited portions of high-fiber pellets, specifically formulated for rabbits.
- Treats: Small amounts of fruits like apple slices, banana, or berries. Avoid sugary, starchy, or processed treats.
- Water: Fresh, clean water should always be available.
Avoid: Iceberg lettuce, onions, garlic, chocolate, and processed foods, as these can be toxic to rabbits.
Common Rabbit Health Issues
- Dental Problems
- Rabbit teeth grow continuously. Overgrown teeth can cause pain, drooling, and difficulty eating.
- Providing hay, chew toys, and wooden blocks helps naturally wear down teeth.
- Digestive Issues (GI Stasis)
- A life-threatening condition where the digestive system slows down or stops.
- Symptoms: Loss of appetite, small or no droppings, lethargy.
- Prevention: High-fiber diet, hydration, and exercise.
- Respiratory Infections
- Rabbits are prone to respiratory illnesses like “snuffles.”
- Symptoms: Sneezing, nasal discharge, watery eyes.
- Regular vet care and a clean environment are key to prevention.
- Obesity
- Caused by poor diet and lack of exercise.
- Ensure daily playtime and limit high-calorie treats.
- Parasites
- Fleas, mites, and intestinal worms can affect rabbits.
- Routine check-ups and preventive treatments help keep them parasite-free.
Grooming and Hygiene
- Brushing: Essential to prevent fur ingestion and hairballs, especially during shedding season.
- Nail Trimming: Regular trimming prevents injury and discomfort.
- Ear Care: Check ears for mites, wax buildup, or infection.
- Cleaning: Keep hutches and litter boxes clean to avoid infections and odors.
Housing and Environment
- Spacious Housing: Provide a large enclosure or allow free-roaming in a safe, rabbit-proofed space.
- Litter Training: Rabbits can be trained to use a litter box with hay placed nearby.
- Chew-Proofing: Protect electrical cords and furniture from chewing.
- Temperature Control: Keep rabbits in cool, well-ventilated environments; they are sensitive to heat.
Exercise and Enrichment
- Rabbits need at least 3–4 hours of free exercise daily.
- Provide tunnels, cardboard boxes, and toys for mental stimulation.
- Interaction with humans or other rabbits helps prevent loneliness.
Preventive Rabbit Care
- Regular Vet Visits: Annual check-ups to monitor weight, teeth, and overall health.
- Vaccinations: Depending on the region, rabbits may need vaccinations against viral hemorrhagic disease or myxomatosis.
- Spaying/Neutering: Prevents unwanted litters, reduces aggression, and lowers the risk of reproductive cancers.
Services We Provide at Vedic Pets Clinic for Rabbits
- General health consultations
- Dental care and treatment of overgrown teeth
- Nutritional counseling
- Surgical services (spay/neuter, soft tissue procedures)
- Emergency and critical care