So, it’s the Chinese Year of the Rabbit
Sadly, rabbits are one of the most neglected pets we see in veterinary practice. Rabbits have complex needs and are not an easy pet to look after.
The rabbit’s digestive system is complex, the rabbit needs to ingest the first faeces (called caecotrophs) it passes to fully absorb nutrients it needs from the food. Rabbits need a good diet, most of this should be made up of roughage such as hay and the rest a pelleted complete food with additions of vegetables and herbs. Contrary to popular belief lettuce such as iceberg is no good for rabbits, it can cause them to have tummy upsets. If your rabbit is not eating, this is seen as a Veterinary emergency as they can die from bloat, contact your vet as a matter of urgency.
Rabbits are very sociable animals and should be housed in pairs.
Regular checks should be performed on their nails and teeth, if they are overlong, they need trimming. During warmer months a close eye on their bottoms should be kept ensuring they are not suffering from flystrike (maggots).
Rabbits do need an annual vaccination to keep them safe from Myxomatosis and Viral Haemorrhagic Disease which are both highly contagious and fatal diseases. They are lovely animals but shouldn’t be considered a cheap pet. If you are considering getting a rabbit please get good advice on housing, feeding and behaviour.
Lucy Travers BVSc CertAVP MRCVS Highfields Vets