What You Need To Know About Your Pet Rabbit
Rabbits make lovely domestic pets. They’re soft, cuddly and the perfect amount of curious, and they can add special energy and unique value to any loving family. However, it’s important to remember that pet rabbits are closely related to wild rabbits. Thus, caring for your rabbits and spotting early signs of common health issues is key in creating the perfect living environments for your beloved pets. Keep reading to learn about how to care for your rabbit and identify potential illnesses.
HOW TO CARE
For A Pet Rabbit
As with any animal, rabbits require specific care to live happy and healthy lives. Below are some of the most critical care factors to consider:
- Feeding: Rabbit diets are simple — 80 percent hay or grass and 20 percent leafy greens/veggies.
- Desexing: Desexing is a great way to control breeding. Both male and female rabbits are typically desexed between four to six months old.
- Parasite Control: Rabbits are susceptible to fleas, lice and mites. Proper medication and prevention are essential to keeping your rabbit parasite-free.
MOST COMMON
Health Issues For Rabbits
Rabbits do face a few common health issues and challenges. But, by learning how to ensure your pet’s health and recognize early warning signs of an unhealthy rabbit, you can avoid most of the common health issues. For preventative disease control, we recommend attentively observing your pet rabbit, feeding it a healthy diet and administering regular health check-ups.
Common health issues for rabbits include:
- Overgrown Teeth: Rabbits’ teeth grow continuously throughout their lifetime. To prevent them from overgrowing, make sure to feed your rabbit 80 to 90 percent fiber-based grass or oaten hay.
- Hairballs: Rabbits and hairballs are part and parcel. To avoid any hairball-based health issues, it’s crucial to feed your rabbit a high fiber diet.
- Uterine Tumors: It’s common for female rabbits to get uterine cancer early in life, but desexing your rabbit can help negate that reality. If you happen to spot blood or aggressive behavior, it’s most likely because of a tumor.
- Myxomatosis: Mosquitos, fleas and infected rabbits transmit this disease infectiously. You can identify this disease by looking for swelling and discharge around the eyes and nose of your rabbit.
- Encephalitozoon Cuniculi: This disease is a fungal infection that affects the brain and nervous system. Changes can also be seen in the eye. If you notice a change in your rabbit’s eyes, contact your veterinarian to have them take a closer look.
When To Call A Rabbit Vet
If you notice any clinical signs mentioned above, it’s a good idea to call your rabbit vet. That way, you’ll ensure your furry friend gets the proper treatment for their ailment as soon as possible.
Interested In Adding Rabbits To Your Family?
University Animal Clinic proudly provides unparalleled service for our clients, including exotic pet treatments. If you’re thinking about adding a rabbit to your family and have any questions, call us at (941) 253-5218 or contact us online. We also invite you to visit our location in Bradenton, Florida.
