Signs Of Sickness In Bunnies

Rabbits are charming and adorable little pets. However, they’re quite different from dogs and cats, and have some very unique traits and care needs. They are also small and fragile, and can get very sick, very fast. It’s important to keep a sharp eye out for possible signs of sickness. A Kitchener, ON vet lists some key ones below.

Reduced Appetite

It’s almost always a red flag when an animal loses interest in dinner. This is particularly concerning with bunnies, as they normally nibble continuously. Several types of gastrointestinal issues, such as bloat, can quickly become life-threatening with these guys, so take any digestive issue or change in appetite very seriously.

Dental Issues

Floppy has open-rooted teeth, which grow continuously. Your cute pet should always have plenty of chew toys, as well as an endless supply of fresh grass hay. You’ll also need to watch for signs of dental trouble. These include drooling, facial swelling, dribbling food, and trouble eating.

Unusual Waste

As you may know, bunnies produce two types of feces: small, round ones, which are basically normal feces, and a second type, cecotropes. Cecotropes look like little grape clusters, and consist of nutrition that didn’t get absorbed the first time around. Floppy re-ingests these, to ensure she’s getting all the nourishment she can out of her food. Watch for any changes in the size, shape, color, smell, and/or texture of your furball’s waste. 

Strange Behavior

If you were to call your vet every time Floppy did something odd, you may have us on speed dial by the end of the week. What we mean here is behavior that isn’t normal for your furry buddy. That includes withdrawal, unusual posture, trembling, fever, and lethargy. Your rabbit may also grind her teeth, tilt her head, stagger, stumble, or vocalize her discomfort. You may also notice Floppy sitting in a strange position, or just not acting like herself.

Fur Problems

Bunnies are naturally quite clean. Floppy’s coat should be soft and smooth. Dullness, thinning, missing fur are all signs that something isn’t quite right.

Breathing Issues

Floppy should breathe smoothly and quietly. Sniffling, sneezing, or stuffiness may seem like nothing major, but can be signs of serious respiratory issues developing. Coughing, gasping, and wheezing are also red flags.

As your Kitchener, ON animal hospital, we are dedicated to providing top-notch veterinary care. Contact us anytime!