General Health Issues

By Debra Olon-West

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Note: Information was found from a combination of sources, such as experienced breeders, our vet, and 'Official Guide Book: Raising Better Rabbits & Cavies' by the ARBA. We have been fortunate enough to work with a veterinarian who specializes in small animals.
CAUTION: this information is meant to supplement current knowledge and is no substitute for the care of a qualified veterinarian. If you are unsure what is wrong with your rabbit, please contact your rabbit savvy vet for help.

Overweight

Symptoms: layers of fat visible; excessive eating; inability to feel the rabbit's backbone.

Treatment: Slowly reduce the amount of feed; keep timothy hay consistent; reduce the amount of treats; encourage exercise daily outside of the hutch if possible.

Prevention: Limit the amount of treats given; feed the rabbit once a day according to size; allow at least ½ -2 hr. exercise time daily.

Overweight rabbits are susceptible to increase rate of heart attack or trouble with breeding.

Underweight

Symptoms: Prominent hip, shoulder, and other bones; poor flesh condition; lethargic

Treatment: Increase in healthy diet, additional water; add exercise time slowly. Consult vet if necessary.

Prevention: Keep the rabbit on a healthy diet and consistent feedings, and care.

General Diarrhea

Symptoms: Stool more of a liquid consistency; lack of appetite.

Treatment: Remove pellets; keep rabbit on a diet of timothy hay, rolled oats, and plenty of water. Recommend adding fruity yogurt with acidophilus to diet (1 teaspoon per day). Consult your vet if necessary.

Prevention: Fresh feed and water; clean cage; consult vet if this persists, as it could be a secondary infection.

Hair Blockage (Fur Ball; Fur Block)

Symptoms: Intermittent diarrhea; poor appetite or no appetite at all; loss of weight; moulting; pulling fur; 'string of pearls' in the stool.

Treatment: Daily dosing with ½ teaspoon of mineral oil for 3 straight days; repeat once a week; consult your vet as necessary. Surgery might be needed if the blockage is too severe.

Prevention: weekly, small doses of Vaseline/mineral oil for animals that are susceptible; use of papaya tablets may help.

Several of our rabbits (including Trixie) have dealt with this problem; it is not unusual. You might want to watch those who are moulting or have very thick coats. We like to give chunked papaya tablets, which they like, to their feed. Plenty of fiber also helps, as does pineapple chunks or you could mix the juice in their water.

To view the most up to date list of available bunnies, please visit our Pet Finder site at www.petfinder.org.