Somebunny's
just brought home a new rabbit? As a responsible owner,
you'll need to provide your pet with a proper diet,
lots of playtime, and regular veterinary care. As
soon as the newest addition to the family is settled
in, we recommend a trip the vet for a thorough examination.
Rabbit Care Starts with Picking a Vet
Veterinarians
specializing in companion rabbits aren't always
easy to find, but it's in your bunny's best interest
to locate a doctor who regularly treats the species.
Ask the members of your local rabbit rescue group
or shelter for a referral. And you'll find great
information on selecting a veterinarian at the House
Rabbit Society's website, www.rabbit.org. This is
also an excellent time to purchase a carrier to
safely transport your bunny. Check out your pet
supply store for a special wire rabbit carrier that
includes a litter tray and a small travel-size water
bottle.
Rabbit Health Care – the First Exam
When
you bring your rabbit for his first exam, be prepared
to provide information on where and when you acquired
your pet, what you're feeding him, what his living
accommodations are like and anything unusual you've
noticed about him. The veterinarian will then conduct
a complete physical exam of your pet, from nose
to tail. The doctor will pay special attention to
your pet's teeth, examining the entire mouth for
overgrown or broken teeth and signs of infection,
such as abscesses.
Most
shelters alter the rabbits they adopt out, but if
you got your bun from a breeder or pet shop, chances
are he or she hasn't been neutered or spayed. If
yours has not, be sure to schedule a date for the
surgery with your veterinarian. Spaying your female
will virtually eliminate the risk of her succumbing
to ovarian, uterine and mammarian cancers. Unneutered
male rabbits are prone to negative behaviors such
as chewing and digging, and will spray urine to
mark their territory.
Rabbit Health & Care – Annual Vet Visits
To
keep your rabbit in good condition, Experts
recommend an annual visit to the vet. Weight loss
or gain, often an indicator or illness, will be
checked, and any necessary tests or radiographs
can help your vet monitor your pet's health. Yearly
check-ups are especially crucial for the prevention
of dental disease. If your rabbit's teeth do not
grow evenly, or are overgrown, the veterinarian
may need to file, clip or reshape them. Depending
on which teeth are affected, your pet may require
anesthesia for this procedure. This extremely important
aspect of your rabbit's health cannot be overlooked--dental
problems can interfere with his ability to eat.
A
healthy rabbit is curious, bright-eyed and energetic,
boasting glossy fur and a good appetite. If you
notice any unusual symptoms in your pet, do not
wait until your annual check-up to consult your
vet. Signs of illness include diarrhea, constipation,
runny nose and eyes, dark red urine, lethargy, fur
loss and red, swollen skin. If you think your rabbit
is ill, it's important to contact the veterinarian
immediately.
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