Like other pets, rabbits are susceptible to disease, injury, and illness. Rabbit owners need to be guardians of their pets’ health by looking out for signs of health problems to address them accordingly.
Some of the common signs of an ailing rabbit include slow movement, hiding, food aversion, noisy breathing, and unusual stool, to mention a few. Luckily, most illnesses can be prevented by giving your rabbit the correct diet and ensuring you order a nutritious Hay Box for your rabbit, and she feeds on vegetables. Here are some common rabbit illnesses that you should pay close attention to.
- Hairballs
As you may be aware, rabbits are very good at self-grooming and often will not require support cleaning. However, as they self-groom, hair may end up in their stomach, and since they do not vomit, the hair has to be passed out through the gut.
When it is not, the hair forms balls that cause obstruction and other complications. Common signs of hairballs are when the rabbit is not eating or is lethargic. Common treatment options for this condition include medication and surgery.
Hairballs can be prevented by giving your rabbit food high in fiber.
- Overgrown teeth
Overgrown teeth is a common problem among rabbits. Their teeth grow continually throughout their life, but it is maintained at desirable levels through filing as they feed on hay. If your rabbit is not constantly filing down their teeth, they are likely to overgrow, causing injury to their tongue and cheek.
This results in pain which makes them unable to eat. In some cases, the incisors can grow in a curl, making it impossible for your rabbit to eat or even close the mouth. Overgrown teeth can eventually cause death as your rabbit will not be getting nutrition.
The only treatment for overgrown teeth in rabbits is burring the teeth flat. The condition can be prevented by ensuring that 90% of your rabbit’s diet comprises fiber in the form of hay.
- Snuffles
Snuffles, also known as pasteurellosis, is a common illness among rabbits. It is transmitted through close contact with infected rabbits whereby the Pasteurella multocida bacteria is transferred to your rabbit.
Signs and symptoms of snuffles include eye discharge or redness and sneezing. The bacteria can also affect other areas of your rabbit’s body, such as the ears, and cause uterine infections and lumps on the body.
If lumps are formed, surgery may be required for treatment, and the other symptoms can be treated with antibiotics.
Snuffles can be prevented by ensuring your rabbit is not under stress. Some strains of the bacteria are inactive until the rabbit’s immune system is under stress. Avoid overcrowding and ensure the gradual introduction of new diets.
Take Away
Most rabbits contract illnesses that can be prevented by giving them a good diet, maintaining hygiene, and conducting regular checkups. Overcrowded teeth, snuffles, and hairballs are some of the common conditions to watch out for and treat before they cause severe health implications.