Rabbits With Special Needs

Life with a special needs rabbit can be both challenging and very rewarding. Disability does not necessarily mean the end, as many special needs rabbits live long and happy lives. Special needs can include illness, disability, or simply the challenges of old age.

Senior rabbits

As your rabbit ages you may start noticing changes in your rabbit, such as decreased mobility, changes in fur texture, weight or muscle loss, altered litter box habits, and a general slowing down. Rabbits have an average lifespan of 8-14 years and are considered seniors between 5 and 8 years old.

There are many ways to support your senior rabbit, including:

  • Providing a low-profile litter box for easier access

  • Offering pelleted food formulated for senior rabbits

  • Adding soft beds and blankets to their space for extra comfort

  • Providing joint supplements and other supportive care

Talk to your vet about options like acupuncture, massage, laser therapy, pain medication for arthritis, dietary adjustments, or any other concerns to help keep your rabbit comfortable and healthy.

Deciding when to say goodbye to your rabbit is one of the hardest choices you’ll face as a caregiver. For senior rabbits, this is often an ongoing decision over several months rather than a single moment. Rabbits are prey animals and instinctively hide pain, so it’s important to watch for subtle signs that their quality of life is declining.

Signs that your rabbit may be struggling include persistent difficulty moving, loss of interest in food or companionship, difficulty staying clean, or signs of chronic pain despite treatment. If you're unsure, talk with your veterinarian about pain management, supportive care, and when humane euthanasia may be the kindest choice.

You know your rabbit best. Trust yourself, seek guidance, and remember that saying goodbye is an act of love.

Head tilt

Head tilt, also known as torticollis, causes a rabbit’s neck to twist, making the head lean to one side. This condition can have several causes, including middle or inner ear infections, E. cuniculi infection, head trauma, stroke, cancer, or roundworm infection. The severity of the tilt can vary from mild to severe.

Identifying the root cause of head tilt is crucial for proper treatment. If your rabbit shows signs of head tilt, seek care from an experienced exotic veterinarian as soon as possible to begin appropriate treatment.

Rabbits with head tilt often lose balance and may roll as they adjust to their condition. Recovery takes time, and creating a safe, supportive environment is essential.

After seeking treatment from an exotic vet, set up a comfortable space for your rabbit by:

  • Placing rolled towels or padding around the perimeter to prevent injury

  • Reducing their living space until they regain balance

  • Using a low-front litter box or washable pee pads to help keep them clean

  • Replacing large water bowls with smaller, low-sided bowls or a water bottle

  • Providing soft, snug spaces where they can lean or wedge themselves for stability

Rabbits experiencing early head tilt may struggle to eat and drink on their own. Syringe feeding and hydration may be necessary—consult your vet for guidance on supportive care.

Mobility and paralysis

Loss of mobility, including paralysis, can have various causes, such as trauma to the spine, pelvis, or limbs; arthritis; degenerated or damaged vertebral discs; E. cuniculi; bacterial infections; roundworm; other illnesses; or advanced age.

Signs of mobility loss may include wobbling, stiffness, an unusual gait, dragging limbs, occasional falls, or loss of balance due to leg weakness. If you notice any of these symptoms, contact your veterinarian as soon as possible. Early treatment is essential for the best chance of recovery and improving your rabbit’s quality of life.

Rabbits with diminished mobility may benefit from the support of a cart, which can help them move more freely and improve their quality of life. However, not all rabbits adapt well to carts, so it's important to consult your veterinarian to determine if this is the right option for your rabbit's specific needs.

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