What to Have in Your Bunny First Aid KitWhile the importance of having a regular veterinarian for your rabbit cannot be understated, sometimes bunnies have small accidents or need minor medical attention that you may be able to take care of at home. Here are some suggestions for items to include in a first-aid kit for your bunny. Hopefully, you will never need to use the supplies contained in your kit, but it is nice to know that you have them ready if necessary! |
Rabbit Health
Many people incorrectly think of rabbits as low-maintenance pets. However, rabbits require care similar to that of a cat or dog, and this includes regular medical exams by a qualified veterinarian. The best time to find a vet for your pet is before you actually need one. It is important to see a vet familiar with the unique needs of rabbits, as their care can differ quite a bit from that of a cat or dog. If you need help finding a veterinarian for your pet, please see our list of recommended veterinarians.
Below are some common concerns regarding rabbit health. For more information, please refer to the recommended links on this page or consider purchasing "The House Rabbit Handbook" or "Rabbit Health in the 21st Century".
Spaying/Neutering
Spaying or neutering your rabbit is critical for the rabbit's health and longevity and to help control the overpopulation of rabbits. Female rabbits have an 80% chance of having uterine or ovarian cancer by age 5; spaying nearly eliminates that risk. In addition, altering your rabbit will often:
- Improve litterbox habits
- Decrease territorial or aggressive behavior
- Increase sociability.
For more complete information on spaying and neutering, please visit the House Rabbit Society web site.
Antibiotics
This is one area where the difference between rabbits and other animals is critical. Amoxicillin, the pink stuff that smells like bubble gum, is extremely dangerous for most rabbits. Never give, or let your veterinarian give, your rabbit oral Amoxicillin.
Safe antibiotic options include: Chloramphenicol, Doxycycline, sulfa-drugs based like Septra or TMS, or fluoroquinolones such as Baytril, Cipro, or Dicural.
Teeth
A rabbit's teeth grow continuously throughout her life. In a rabbit with normal teeth, the natural action of chewing will help wear down the teeth so that they stay at a reasonable length. Some rabbits, like some people, have teeth that do not line up correctly. This is known as malocclusion. Normally, only the front teeth are maloccluded, but occasionally, the back teeth are also out of alignment.
Since there are no braces for rabbits, the only two options available for rabbits with malocclusion are regular tooth trims or, in extreme cases, removal of the teeth. A domestic rabbit can survive quite easily without her front teeth, as long as her human companions are willing to cut any large solid foods (carrot, fruit, etc.) into bite-size pieces.
