Your Rabbit's Wellness Check-up
It's often hard to tell when a rabbit is uncomfortable because they're experts at masking pain and illness. That's why you need to bring your four-legged family member in for an annual wellness check-up, complete with routine lab tests.
What to expect during a typical rabbit wellness visit:
- A comprehensive head-to-tail exam (ears and teeth included)
- Monitoring weight
- Stool sample analysis
- CBC (complete blood count) and other blood tests
- Vaccinations (if applicable)
Besides early illness detection, these check-ups are also the perfect time for an in-depth conversation about how best to care for your rabbit. We'll focus on nutrition and proper care, since the right diet and living conditions can ward off various health issues, ultimately enhancing your rabbit's lifespan and quality of life.
Common Rabbit Health Concerns
The majority of rabbit health problems are dental in nature. Given that a rabbit's teeth continuously grow, they need a diet that helps maintain good oral health.
Frequent issues we aim to prevent in rabbits:
- Excessive tooth growth
- Misaligned teeth
- Ear canal issues/infections
- GI stasis
- Ear mites
- Breathing issues
Signs of Illness in Rabbits
Some telltale signs that your rabbit is feeling unwell include:
- Small or reduced droppings
- Drooling
- Not eating
- Respiratory distress
- Head tilt
- Ocular or nasal discharge
- Weakness
- Lack of urination
- Unkempt fur / lack of grooming
- Lethargy
Recognizing When Your Rabbit Needs Help
Since rabbits can be sneaky about showing symptoms of being unwell, it’s essential to know what signs to keep an eye out for. Symptoms can range from subtle to noticeable and may include:
- Loss of appetite
- Labored or heavy breathing
- Audible teeth grinding
- Reduced or absent fecal output
- Watery eyes and nose
- Unusual lethargy
- Head tilt
If your rabbit displays any of the above symptoms or just seems off, don't hesitate to contact us at (215) 995-4049.