Have you recently become a bunny owner? Congratulations! You’ve chosen a super cute pet. Rabbits do have some specific care needs, however. They also have different ways of signaling when they don’t feel well than cats and dogs do. It’s important to know what to look for. A local Flat Rock, NC vet lists some signs of illness in rabbits below.
Unusual Waste
Bunnies have two types of waste: fecal pellets, and cecotropes, which are re-ingested. Anything unusual, such as diarrhea and/or changes in the size, shape, amount, texture, color, or odor of Floppy’s waste should warrant an immediate call to the vet.
Vocalization
Rabbits are usually pretty quiet pets. However, if your furry buddy is growling, grinding her teeth, or making other unusual noises, she could be sick.
Fur
Floppy’s fur should be soft and smooth. If it looks thin, matted, greasy, or dull, there may be something going on. You’ll also want to look for things like redness, lesions, or scaling on the skin.
Gait/Posture
Things like staggering, stumbling, limping, or moving stiffly can all be red flags with our furry pals. Sick bunnies may sit or stand in an unusual position, hunch their backs over, or tilt their heads in an odd way.
Facial Swelling
Bunnies have open-rooted teeth, which puts them at risk of many dental problems. Facial swelling is often a sign of trouble here. Other possible red flags include drooling and dropping food.
Reduced Appetite
It’s almost always a red flag when an animal doesn’t feel like eating. If Floppy isn’t interested in her hay and/or dinner, she could be sick. Keep in mind that bunnies can’t vomit. Any type of gastrointestinal issue can become very serious!
Sniffles
Respiratory problems can be very dangerous in pets. Floppy not only has a very delicate respiratory system, she’s also close to the ground, and can be exposed to lots of dust. Sniffling, sneezing, watery nose, and/or troubled breathing are all signs that your bun needs care right away.
Changes in Behavior
Pay attention to Floppy, and watch for anything that seems unusual for her. For instance, a normally-curious rabbit that just wants to sit in her cage may be sick. Ask your vet for more information.
Please contact us for all your bunny’s veterinary care needs. As your Flat Rock, NC pet hospital, we are hoppy to help!
