Readers ask: How To Tell If A Rabbit Is Sick?

What can make a bunny sick?

Some possible cause of an illness in your rabbit could be mites, ear infection, kidney infection, dental problems, hairballs, digestive problems, heatstroke, GI stasis, obesity, snuffles, sore hocks, paralysis, fleas and lice.

How do you tell if your rabbit is hurt?

Signs of pain include: > grinding teeth > rapid and shallow breathing > pulling hair > decreased grooming > hunched posture > lethargy > increased thirst and urination > a reluctance to move > bulging, strained, staring, or unfocused eyes.

How do you check a rabbits health?

Rabbit Health Check: Signs of a Healthy Bunny

1. Eyes. Healthy rabbit eyes are clear and bright.
2. Ears. A small penlight can help you get a good look into your rabbit’s ears.
3. Nose. A rabbit’s nose should be free from discharge.
4. Chin. Rabbits have a scent gland under their chins.
5. Teeth. Gently pull the upper and lower lips back.
6. Mouth.
7. Feet.
8. Nails.

How do I know if my rabbit is dehydrated?

Your rabbit may be dehydrated if you see any of these problems: thick sticky saliva, crusty eyes, poor appetite, small amounts of dark colored urine, or hard dry fecal pellets. In order to correct dehydration, extra water must be given to your rabbit. Sometimes this can be done by helping the rabbit drink.

How do you treat a sick rabbit?

While you seek treatment, try to keep your rabbit hydrated and warm. A syringe with water or soft foods (applesauce or baby food) can assist. Depending on the condition, your vet may prescribe prescription medication to help your rabbit’s condition.

How do you know if your rabbit is dying?

Rabbit is limp, floppy or cold These rabbits are very, very sick and may be close to death. The common end point of dehydration, shock or sepsis is a weak floppy rabbit, often with cold ears. They tend to sit hunched in a corner and ‘feel funny’ when you pick them up.

Can rabbits be physically sick?

Rabbits are physically incapable of vomiting. (Answer to Pop Quiz) The phisiology of rabbit digestive system is such that rabbits are not able to vomit. THat’s one of the primary reasons why ingesting fur can lead to so many serious problems, such as wool block, or sluggish motility when combined with a low-fiber diet.

Can you give ibuprofen to rabbits?

Ibuprofen can be administered orally to rabbits (LILES and FLECKNELL, 1992). The drug is however, not currently recommended for the relief of post-operative laparotomy pain in this species.

How fast do rabbits heal?

Your rabbit will be very tired and needs to rest tonight. Male rabbits tend to bounce back more quickly after surgery and will be almost normal within 24 to 48 hours. Females take longer and it may take 2 to 4 days for her to gradually return to normal activity.

How do I know if my rabbit is too skinny?

If you feel the back bone too easily and it is sharp to the touch, your rabbit may be too thin. You should be able to feel a softly rounded spine. If you do not feel it, your rabbit may be overweight.

What is the best food for rabbits?

Rabbits should have a daily diet of mostly hay, a smaller amount of fresh vegetables, and a limited number of pellets. Hay is the most important part of a rabbit’s daily intake. Unlimited, high-quality grass hay, such as Timothy, orchard or brome, should make up the bulk of a rabbit’s diet.

Why is my rabbit getting skinny?

Weight loss usually means one of four things: Not enough food being given. Poor quality food – for example, rabbits aren’t designed to live just on straw, or salad or green leaves – they need good quality grass or hay. Dental disease – bad teeth are the single most common cause of weight loss.

Does rabbits drink water?

In short, water is vital. Rabbits must have access to plenty of fresh water at all times. Rabbits eating lots of fresh grass and greens will drink less, whilst those eating mostly hay will drink more. Bowls are better than bottles as lapping from a bowl is more natural to rabbits.

Why is my bunny not eating or drinking?

Common causes of gut stasis in rabbits include: Pain from dental infections, sharp spikes on the teeth, urinary tract infections or gas within the guts caused by an inadequate diet. Stress from a change in environment or loss of a partner, or even something like fireworks. Lack of water.

How much water do rabbits drink?

Hidden Water For Rabbits This means that if your rabbit is acting normally and his or her drinking habits haven’t changed, don’t panic if your pal doesn’t seem to be drinking the recommended amount of water, which is 1.5 to 5 ounces per 2.2 pounds (50 to 150 mL /kg) of body weight.