Common Health Issues in Rabbits and How to Prevent Them

Rabbits are cute, cuddly pets that bring joy to their owners. However, like any other pet, they are prone to certain health problems. Rabbit owners need to be aware of the common health issues below and take preventive measures to keep their rabbits healthy and happy.
 

Parasites

Parasites such as fleas, ticks, and ear mites are commonly found in rabbits, cats, and dogs. While the naked eye can easily spot fleas and ticks, ear mites can only be identified using an endoscope. Signs of ear mites include scratching, head shaking, and dark brown/black residue in the ears. It’s important to immediately address mite or tick infestations in your pet’s ears as they can result in infections and head tilt.
 

Bladder Sludge

Consuming excessive high-calcium and protein foods can result in bladder sludge in your pet rabbit. If you observe white, cloudy urine, it’s a good indicator that your rabbit has bladder sludge. In severe cases, the urine may resemble toothpaste, and kidney or bladder stones may form.
 

Malocclusion

Rabbits need regular dental care as their teeth grow throughout their lifetime. Poor alignment of teeth or uneven wear can cause them to become overgrown, which is often undetectable from the outside. Molar spurs can cause great discomfort in your pet. Sometimes, this can lead to an abscess in the mouth, which makes it difficult for them to eat.
 

Obesity

Obesity is a concerning issue for pet rabbits and is typically caused by an unhealthy diet and lack of exercise. Unfortunately, it can lead to serious conditions such as fatty liver disease and heart problems. You must ensure your pet rabbits are getting adequate nutrition and exercise. Regarding their diet, prioritize high fiber and low carbs. A gradual shift in their eating habits is the best way to help them attain a healthy weight. Also, don’t forget to provide plenty of exercise for your bunny.
 

Gastrointestinal Stasis

It’s now believed that hairballs are more of a secondary cause, rather than the root cause, of GI stasis. A deficient low-fiber diet can be responsible for the buildup of hairs in the rabbit’s stomach and slow down their digestion process. Eating a high-fiber diet full of hay and fresh veggies can help to lessen the chances of fur becoming trapped in their stomach. Additionally, regular exercise is a key component for helping to maintain their digestive system functioning properly.
 

Just like many other pets, rabbits are highly prone to developing health conditions and illnesses at some point in their lifetime. These can result from genetic factors or exposure to certain environmental elements. In some cases, these diseases are passed on from one rabbit to another. It’s essential to identify the symptoms in time to ensure your pet has the best chance of overcoming any illness.
 

Do you suspect your pet rabbit may suffer from a health issue? Improve their odds at recovery with our vets in Greenwood Village Veterinary Clinic. Call us now at (303) 771-6304 in Greenwood Village, Colorado.