Rabbit Health

Bladder sludge occurs when excess calcium carbonate crystals thicken a rabbit’s urine, making it gritty or paste-like. This can lead to discomfort, difficulty urinating, and potential bladder issues.

If you notice any of these symptoms, consult your veterinarian for diagnosis and treatment.

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Bladder Stones and Bladder Sludge in Rabbits, by Susan Brown, DVM

Rabbits are susceptible to many types of cancer including papillomas, basal cell carcinoma, osteosarcoma, uterine adenocarcinoma, lymphoma and thymoma.

If you notice any usual lumps or other symptoms, consult your veterinarian for diagnosis and treatment.

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Tumors in Rabbits, by Marie Mead

Thymomas in Rabbits: A Comprehensive Overview, by Paige K Parsons

Dental disease is a common health issue in rabbits and can be caused by poor diet, genetics, improper tooth wear, misaligned teeth, or infections that lead to abscesses. Common symptoms include drooling, difficulty eating, weepy eye, or weight loss.

If you notice any of these symptoms, consult your veterinarian for diagnosis and treatment.

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All About Teeth: Preventative Care & Dental Problems in Rabbits, by Creative Commons Remixed, Paige K Parsons

E. Cuniculi parasite spreads through urine and primarily affects the nervous system and kidneys. Symptoms can include hind leg weakness, head tilt, loss of balance, incontinence, and, in severe cases, paralysis or kidney dysfunction.

If you notice any of these symptoms, consult your veterinarian for diagnosis and treatment.

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E. Cuniculi, by Marinell Harriman

Ear infections in rabbits can be caused by bacteria or parasites such as ear mites. Signs of an infection include ear or head shaking, excessive scratching, discharge, a foul odor from the ears, and, in some cases, head tilt or loss of balance.

If you notice any of these symptoms, consult your veterinarian for diagnosis and treatment.

Gastrointestinal (GI) stasis is a serious condition in which the digestive system slows down or stops, leading to gas buildup, bloating, and discomfort. It can be triggered by various factors, including an improper diet, stress, pain, intestinal blockages, or dehydration.

Signs of GI stasis include:

• Decreased appetite or refusal to eat

• Reduced or no fecal output

• Low body temperature

• Inactivity or signs of pain, such as sitting hunched or in unusual positions

If you suspect GI stasis, seek veterinary care immediately, as prompt treatment is critical for recovery.

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Gi Stasis – The Silent Killer, by Dana Krempels

Megacolon is a gut motility disorder that causes dilation of the colon, leading to chronic digestive issues. It is a genetic condition present from birth and persists throughout a rabbit’s life. The severity and progression of megacolon can vary among rabbits.

Rabbits with megacolon often have distinct coat color patterns and produce irregularly shaped or abnormally sized feces. Managing this condition requires specialized care, including a high-fiber diet, hydration support, and regular veterinary monitoring to maintain digestive health.

If you notice any of these symptoms, consult your veterinarian for diagnosis and treatment.

Learn More:

Megacolon in Rabbits webinar recording, HRS Educator Paula Watkins, August 2020

Slides for the Megacolon in Rabbits presentation, August 2020

Rabbits can get fleas, ticks, and mites, which may cause itching, skin irritation, and even transmit diseases. Rabbits found outdoors or living outside are especially prone to these parasites.

Important: Never use flea or tick treatments without consulting your veterinarian. Some products on the market are highly toxic and can be fatal to rabbits. Your vet can recommend safe and effective treatment options to protect your rabbit’s health.

If you notice any of these symptoms, consult your veterinarian for diagnosis and treatment.

Many houseplants and human foods are toxic to rabbits. Since rabbits love to explore and investigate by nibbling, it’s essential to keep all houseplants and unsafe foods out of reach. Even small amounts of certain plants can be harmful.

Classes of Toxic Plants (WHRS)

Supreme Pet Foods Toxic Plant List

Toxic Foods (SDHRS)

National Animal Poison Control Center (ASPCA)

If you think that your pet may have ingested a potentially poisonous substance, call (888) 426-4435. A $65 consultation fee may be applied to your credit card. This resource is for any animal poison-related emergency, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year

Rabbits can develop upper respiratory infections (URIs), often caused by bacterial infections such as Pasteurella. Since multiple bacteria can be responsible, your veterinarian may recommend a culture to identify the cause and determine the most effective antibiotic treatment.

Rabbits can also suffer from lower respiratory infections, such as pneumonia, which can be more severe.

Symptoms of respiratory infections include:

• Runny nose or nasal discharge

• Sneezing

• Watery or runny eyes

• Labored or noisy breathing

If you notice any of these symptoms, consult your veterinarian for diagnosis and treatment.

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Pasteurella: Its Health Effects in Rabbits, by Marie Mead

Runny Eyes, Runny Nose: What Do They Mean?, by Dana Krempels

Ulcerative pododermatitis, commonly known as sore hocks, is a condition where sores, ulcers, or infections develop on the soles of a rabbit’s feet. It can be caused by wire or hard flooring, prolonged inactivity, obesity, or a rabbit’s natural sitting posture. Some breeds are more prone to developing sore hocks due to their body structure and fur type.

Symptoms of sore hocks include:

• Fur loss on the soles of the feet

• Rough, scabbed, or inflamed skin

• Bleeding or open sores

• Changes in gait or sitting posture due to pain

If left untreated, sore hocks can become infected and lead to serious complications. Providing soft, supportive flooring and maintaining good hygiene can help prevent this condition. If you notice symptoms, consult your veterinarian for proper treatment.

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Treating Sore Hocks, by Dana Krempels

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) in rabbits are caused by bacterial infections in the urinary tract and can be painful.

Symptoms of a UTI may include:

• Straining or discomfort while urinating

• Blood in the urine (note that normal rabbit urine can sometimes appear red)

• Changes in litter box habits or incontinence

• Signs of pain, such as tooth grinding, loss of appetite, or inactivity

• Excessive licking of the genital area

If you suspect a UTI, consult your veterinarian for diagnosis and treatment. Left untreated, UTIs can lead to more serious complications, such as bladder or kidney infections.

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Rabbit UTI (Urinary Tract Infection), by Maria Zayas, DVM

Urine scald is skin irritation caused by prolonged exposure to urine. It is often seen in rabbits living in unclean environments or improper housing, but it can also affect senior rabbits or those with disabilities who have difficulty staying clean.

Symptoms include redness, inflammation, fur loss, and moist or irritated skin around the hindquarters. If left untreated, urine scald can lead to infections and discomfort.

If you notice signs of urine scald, consult your veterinarian for proper care and treatment.

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Urine Scald by Disabled Rabbits

Chronic runny eyes in rabbits can have various causes, including congenital issues, infections, blocked tear ducts, dental problems, or glaucoma. Persistent eye discharge may indicate an underlying health concern that requires veterinary attention. A proper diagnosis is needed to determine the cause and provide the right treatment to keep your rabbit comfortable and healthy.

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Chronic Runny Eyes In Rabbits, by Dana Krempels