The elder bun, or senior rabbit, will typically require extra attention to their health and wellness as they age. You can help your rabbit to thrive and age gracefully by supporting them through nutrition, health and comfort. While some rabbits will require a small amount of care, others may need a more extensive tailored care plan. It can be difficult to watch your rabbit aging, but as their parent and caretaker, it is imperative to really know them so you’ll be able to identify the signs of aging when it begins. Early intervention and advanced veterinary care can help keep your elder bun comfortable throughout their older years.
Recently I lost my special needs elder bun Grilly. Although it was his time to cross the rainbow bridge, the pain and grief have left a hole in my heart. The bond between an elder bun, especially one that needs an abundance of care, and yourself is very deep. Time and love will bring you together in a way like no other. Care may seem daunting, but after they have gone there will be an emptiness…so embrace your time together while you have it.
Elder Bun Stages
Caring for the elder bun requires special attention to their changing needs as they enter their senior years. With an average life span of 8-10 years old, rabbits will hit this stage anytime between 4-8 depending on their breed, size and genetics.
Signs of Aging
Understanding the needs of you elder bun begins with being able to discern the beginning stages of aging. This will look different for every rabbit. Some may have few changes while others may have many. Decreasing mobility (tapering off of binkying and jumping), physical changes, increasing health problems and a greater time sleeping are all signs of the aging bunny.
Coat Condition
- Thinner fur: The coat of an elder bun may become thinner or patchy in certain areas. You may even see raw skin or skin abscesses as fur falls out.
- Coat texture: The fur may become coarser or lose its softness as well as become matted.
- Graying: Some rabbits may develop gray or white hairs around their face or body, especially in darker-colored rabbits.
Weight Changes
- Weight loss: Elderly rabbits may lose weight, even if they are eating the same amount. This can be due to loss of appetite, muscle loss or dental issues.
- Weight gain: On the other hand, if the rabbit is less active, they may gain weight, especially around the belly. Extra weight can put pressure on the heart and joints. This alone can reduce your rabbit’s life expectancy. If your rabbit is gaining too much weight, cut back on calorie-dense foods (like pellets) and increase hay and low-calorie greens. Make sure your rabbit stays active with gentle play and exploration.
NOTE: weigh your rabbit on a regular basis so as to identify any major changes
Temperature Sensitivity
- Warmth: Older rabbits may be more sensitive to cold temperatures due to decreased body fat or changes in metabolism. Keep their environment warm and draft-free, especially in colder months. You can provide extra blankets or soft bedding for insulation.
- Coolness in Summer: Conversely, the elder bun may also be more susceptible to heat stress. In warmer weather, ensure they have access to cool, shaded areas, fresh water, and ventilation to avoid overheating.
Eye and Vision Changes
- Cataracts: Some elder buns develop cataracts causing vision impairment or blindness. Watch for signs of cloudy eyes or changes in behavior that suggest vision loss. Adjust their environment if needed to help them navigate safely.
- Weepy eyes: Dacrocystitis or weepy eye can be caused by blocked tear ducts or general eye irritation
Hearing Loss/Ears
- Decreased responsiveness: Elder buns may not respond to sounds as quickly or as often due to partial hearing loss.
- Ear Health: Senior rabbits may experience ear problems, such as wax build-up or infections. Lop-eared rabbits are particularly prone to ear infections due to the shape of their ears. Regular checks and gentle cleaning can help prevent issues.
Dental Issues
- Overgrown teeth: Dental problems are common in older rabbits. Overgrown teeth, tooth root abscesses, and molar spurs can cause pain, loss of appetite, and difficulty eating. Regular vet checkups are crucial for detecting and addressing dental issues early.
- Drooling: Dental issues may also cause drooling or wetness around the mouth.
Loss of Muscle Tone
- Weakness in limbs: Elder buns may lose muscle mass if they become less active. You may notice muscle wasting, especially in their back legs, which can make it harder for them to hop or stand for long periods. Reduced agility.
- Splayed legs: In severe cases of muscle weakening or arthritis, a rabbit may have difficulty keeping their legs under them.
Digestive Changes
- Changes in appetite: Their appetite might decrease, or they may become more selective about what they eat.
- Slower digestion: Elder buns may have slower gut motility, leading to constipation or digestive issues such as gas and GI stasis. Monitor their stool quality and eating habits closely.
- Droppings: The size and frequency of droppings may change, sometimes becoming smaller or less frequent.
Urinary Problems
- Incontinence: The elder bun may struggle with bladder control, leading to accidents or urine scalding (irritation caused by urine on the skin).
- Increased urination: Kidney function may decline, leading to increased urination or more diluted urine.
- Urinary Health: Older rabbits may be prone to urinary tract infections
Behavioral Changes
- Less active: Elder buns may become less playful, show a lack of interest in toys and become more sedentary.
- Cognitive Changes: Just like humans, elderly rabbits may experience some cognitive decline. They may become more forgetful or disoriented, like having a “senior” moment, but this is usually mild. Keeping their environment consistent and stress-free can help them remain comfortable.
- Changes in Social Behavior: Senior rabbits may become more dependent on their human caregivers, while others may prefer solitude. Respect your rabbit’s preferences while continuing to provide gentle affection and attention.
- Depression: This is not uncommon as the elder bun becomes more immobile, unable to groom himself or especially if they lose another bonded mate.
Common Health Problems
For any health issues with your elder bun, you must see your exotic vet as soon as possible for the correct testing and course of treatment
As older rabbits slow down it is not uncommon for them to develop a variety of health problems. Because rabbits are well adept at hiding their pain, it’s important to give your rabbit monthly at home health exams. When you begin to notice your rabbit slowing down, it is advisable to consult your exotic vet and perhaps schedule wellness assessment visits bi-annually. A rabbit-savvy veterinarian can monitor their health and spot early signs of age-related problems such as arthritis, dental disease, or organ dysfunction.
Illnesses & Ailments
Arthritis, Spondylosis, and other skeletal problems: Symptoms include stiffness, struggling to get into litter box, decrease in jumping or climbing, struggling to groom, sitting in awkward positions, change in behaviors such as aggression and loud grinding of teeth due to pain. This occurs when discs and joints degenerate and bone spurs grow on the vertebrae due to wear and tear.
X-rays will be needed to assess your rabbits condition and treatment needed. Medications such as Meloxicam (Meloxicam can increase the probability of kidney disease) or Gabapentin may be prescribed to help alleviate pain. It is also important for your rabbit to get Vitamin D…thus allow your rabbit to nap in the sunshine.
Cataracts & Glaucoma: Symptoms include a hazy opaqueness to the pupil (the eyes may appear somewhat cloudy), edema and loss of vision. Cataracts will need to be surgically removed while Glaucoma can be treated with medicated drops.
Dental Disease: Symptoms can include poor or loss of appetite, swelling around the mouth and cheeks, drooling or wetness around chin, overgrown teeth, watery eyes, lumps near jaw, weight loss, decrease in droppings or difficulty grooming. If you notice these signs, contact your vet for an examination…your rabbit will need x-ray to determine the next course of action.
Kidney Disease: Symptoms include excessive thirst, tender kidneys, increased urination, blood in urine, dense or white urine, litter box regression, weight loss, decreased appetite and sludgy urine. This occurs when the kidneys can no longer clear toxins from the body. It can be caused by dehydration, diabetes, infections, poor diet, trauma, tumors, cysts, cancer and urinary tract obstructions. Hydration, medication and a reduced calcium diet will be prescribed.
Bladder: Symptoms can be pain upon touching. Stones and sludge are by-products in the bladder that can cause extreme pain for your rabbit to pass. Your rabbit may need subcutaneous fluids or a bladder flush.
Liver: When stored fat in tissues becomes metabolized and caecal bacteria becomes askew, there is a breakdown of how nutrients are processed and the liver can shut down. Continual eating is critical. If your rabbit has dental problems or GI Stasis, then you need to administer Oxbow Critical Care or Sherwood Recovery Food.
Otitis Infections: Outer ear symptoms may include shaking of the head, ear scratching and oozing fluid. Middle ear symptoms can include head tilt, leaning or rolling to one side, loss of balance, teeth grinding and a reluctance to move. Chronic infections can lead to deafness and or permanent head tilt. Ear infections are most notable in the Lop breed. Discerning the cause of the infection will determine the treatment.
Cancer: Reproductive cancers are the most common amongst the elder bun community. Symptoms include blood in the urine, swelling in the abdomen, weight loss and aggressive behavior. Female rabbits that have not been spayed are at an extremely high risk. According to the Rabbit Welfare Association & Fund of the UK, up to 85% of un-spayed females develop cancer by the age of 5. Testicular cancer is found in unneutered males. Find out more about other types of cancers that rabbits can develop.
Respiratory: Symptoms may include labored breathing, sneezing, nasal discharge, decreased appetite, weight loss. Respiratory illnesses are often linked to dental disease. Care may require nebulizer treatments, antibiotics, fluid drips and supportive treatments like critical care diet.
Cardiac Disease: (heart) Symptoms may include persistent upper respiratory infections, breathing problems such as neck extended upwards to breathe, coughing, lethargy, weight loss or gain, unable to lie flat. Medications and diuretics may be used for treatments.
Pododermatitis: (aka sore hocks) Symptoms may include swelling, redness, hot to the touch, missing fur, ulcers or sores. The more inflamed and ulcerative the harder it is to treat. Sore hocks occur because of reduced fur thickness, especially amongst the Rex breed, and less mobility. Keep their living area clean and dry, and provide soft, absorbent bedding to cushion their feet.
E. cuniculi: While rabbits of any age can develop the parasitic disease E-c, it is thought that one of the probable factors giving rise to the onset is age. Symptoms may include head tilt, rapid eye movement, circling, rolling, seizures, and lack of coordination. E. cuniculi is difficult to diagnose. Vets will use a variety of extensive testing to try to determine if a rabbit has E-c, however confirmation is only definitive by autopsy. If E-c is suspected treatment must be swiftly executed.
Holistic Care for the Elder Bun
Before adding any supplements to your elderly rabbit’s diet, consult a rabbit-savvy veterinarian. Dosage, duration, and potential interactions with medications should always be carefully considered. Discuss any alternative treatments with your vet as well. Not all therapies are suitable for every rabbit, so it’s important to tailor the treatment plan to your rabbit’s unique health and behavioral needs.
Supplemental Care
Holistic supplementation can play a beneficial role in supporting the health and well-being of elderly rabbits. The immune system of an elder bun may weaken, making them more susceptible to infections. Immune-boosting supplements such as flowers, herbs, weeds, roots and branches can support overall health and resilience.
Flaxseed Oil which is rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids can promote a healthy coat and helps to prevent dry skin. A small amount added to their diet can help keep their fur shiny and their skin healthy. Coconut oil and vitamin E applied topically can help with dry flaky skin.
Diluted teas, given sparingly, are a great way to infuse healing with hydration. Chamomile is a mild herb that can have calming effects, reduce anxiety and helps to cleanse the liver and kidneys. Nettle, Dandelion, Cranberry and Raspberry leaf teas have many multiple benefits as well.
Supplemental care such as Oxbow critical care and Sherwood pet recovery should be kept on hand for the onset of digestive issues. You can offer probiotics, such a Bene-bac, formulated specifically for rabbits that will support gut health by promoting healthy bacteria in the digestive system. They can be particularly useful after antibiotic treatments.
Alternative Therapies
Alternative therapies can benefit the elder bun to improve their overall well-being and manage common age-related issues such as arthritis, mobility problems, and chronic pain. These therapies are often used alongside conventional veterinary care and can provide gentle, non-invasive relief for aging rabbits.
Acupuncture
- What It Is: Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medicine technique that involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body to stimulate healing and balance the body’s energy (Qi). It’s commonly used to relieve pain, improve circulation, and support overall health.
- Benefits: Acupuncture can be particularly beneficial for the elder bun suffering from arthritis, joint pain, or other chronic pain conditions. It can also help with digestive issues, respiratory problems, and stress reduction.
- How It Works: Acupuncture can reduce inflammation, improve mobility, and enhance the function of internal organs. Many rabbits tolerate the treatment well, and it is usually a relaxing experience for them.
Massage Therapy
- What It Is: Massage therapy involves the manual manipulation of soft tissues in the body, such as muscles and connective tissues, to promote relaxation, improve circulation, and alleviate discomfort.
- Benefits: The elder bun that suffers with arthritis, muscle stiffness, or limited mobility can benefit from gentle massage. It can reduce tension, improve flexibility, and promote better blood flow to sore or stiff areas.
- How It Works: Gently massaging your rabbit’s muscles and joints helps relieve stiffness and pain. Always use soft, gentle strokes, and avoid areas that are sensitive or inflamed. It can also help rabbits relax and feel comforted.
Laser Therapy
- What It Is: Laser therapy uses low-level lasers or light-emitting diodes (LEDs) to stimulate healing and reduce inflammation. This therapy is non-invasive and involves directing specific wavelengths of light to target tissues.
- Benefits: Laser therapy is often used to manage chronic pain and inflammation, particularly in rabbits with arthritis, sore joints, or healing wounds. It can help speed up tissue repair and reduce pain.
- How It Works: The laser penetrates the tissues to reduce inflammation and promote healing at the cellular level. It also increases blood flow to the treated area, which helps reduce pain and improve function. Laser therapy is painless and usually well-tolerated by rabbits.
Chiropractic Care
- What It Is: Chiropractic care involves the manual adjustment and realignment of the spine and joints to improve function and alleviate discomfort. It focuses on the relationship between the spine and nervous system.
- Benefits: Chiropractic care can help an elder bun with mobility issues, misalignment, or pain related to arthritis or spinal problems. It can improve posture, flexibility, and overall comfort.
- How It Works: A trained animal chiropractor performs gentle adjustments to the rabbit’s spine and joints. These adjustments can alleviate pressure on nerves, reduce pain, and improve the rabbit’s range of motion.
Reiki
- What It Is: Reiki is a form of energy healing that involves channeling healing energy by providing a meditative space to share with the elder bun with the intention of promoting physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being.
- Benefits: Reiki can be particularly helpful for rabbits with chronic pain, anxiety, or other stress-related conditions. It can promote relaxation, emotional balance, and overall well-being.
- How It Works: During a Reiki session, the practitioner will sit near your rabbit to meditate. The treatment is non-invasive and can be deeply calming for the rabbit, making it a good option for those experiencing chronic discomfort or emotional distress.
Tellington TTouch Therapy
- What It Is: TTouch is a form of gentle bodywork that uses circular hand movements and touches to improve an animal’s balance, behavior, and overall well-being.
- Benefits: TTouch therapy can help the elder bun by reducing stress, improving circulation, and increasing their sense of well-being. It may also help with mobility issues by promoting relaxation and reducing muscle tension.
- How It Works: The practitioner gently applies specific touches, strokes, and lifts to different parts of the rabbit’s body, aiming to release tension and improve physical and emotional balance. This therapy is very gentle and soothing, making it suitable for older rabbits.
Other therapies that can be considered are hydrotherapy, crystal, sound and color.
Elder Bun Modifications
The specific needs your elder bun may require will depend on the symptoms he or she exhibits. When your elder bun starts to exhibit signs of slowing down, you should take him or her to your vet to get baseline testing done. This includes bloodwork and x-rays. As your rabbit declines, the vet will be able to compare findings.
Behavior
With decreased eyesight and or hearing, your rabbit may startle easily. Approach them quietly and calmly. Rabbits are known to suffer from stress. Try not to disrupt your rabbits routine or make too many unnecessary changes to their environment.
Environment
Mobility tends to be an issue in elder buns. If your rabbit lives in an enclosure that is multi-levelled or free roams up and down stairs, it would be a good time to move bunny to a first floor single level space. Remove ramps and climbing toys. Make everything easily accessible on the floor.
With many elder buns experiencing arthritis, it is a good idea to provide soft non-slip flooring especially if it is made of an absorbent material. Place area rugs, Vetbed (wicks away urine) and fleece blankets around to provide comfort for your rabbit.
You may want to re-examine their litter box as many have sides that are too high to hop into. Alternatives would be a custom 3 sided walk in litter box, low entry litter box or washable pee pads on top of thick waterproof mats. Provide multiple places for your elder bun to relieve themselves.
To sum up:
- Provide soft, padded bedding to cushion their joints.
- Ensure that litter boxes have low edges for easier access.
- Avoid stairs, ramps, or high surfaces if your rabbit has mobility issues.
- Use rugs or carpet in areas where your rabbit roams to prevent slipping on hard floors.
Nutrition
Senior rabbits often have changing nutritional needs, and it’s important to adjust their diet to maintain a healthy weight and provide them with the nutrients they need. Many rabbits may eat less as they age, however it is still important to follow a balanced diet. The primary component of their diet should still be hay. If you notice they are not eating as much hay, try switching up the variety. You can use a mix of Timothy, Orchard or Oat hay. Sprinkle in some forage as an added health benefit.
Depending on the rabbit’s health, you may need to adjust their pellet intake. Some elderly rabbits may benefit from pellets formulated specifically for seniors, which are easier to digest and contain additional vitamins and minerals.
Continue offering a variety of leafy greens, such as romaine lettuce, cilantro, parsley, and dandelion greens, but ensure you avoid overfeeding high-calcium greens like spinach or kale, as older rabbits may be more prone to urinary issues.
Seniors may either have a decreased thirst drive or have a hard time reaching their water bowl (due to lack of mobility). It’s important to provide fresh water in multiple places at all times.
Keep an eye on their poop. It can be a telltale sign if they are getting the proper nutrition. Runny poops can be a sign of imbalance. Also keep a watchful eye on their urine. Sludgy residue can indicate the presence of kidney or bladder problems resulting from foods too high in calcium.
Grooming
Grooming may become an issue if your elder bun has signs of paralysis or arthritis. Time spent grooming can create a deep bond between you and your rabbit. Check for any physical anomalies such as lumps, examine inside the ears for mites or a waxy build up and inspect their eyes for discharge or crusting. I find an eyebrow comb works wonders when grooming around the eyes and nose.
It is not uncommon for an elder bun to develop a messy behind. Remember you should never give your rabbit a bath. In the case of a soiled hind end, try using water wipes or a dry bath with cornstarch first. If you have a real mess, you can hold your bunnies butt under the faucet, but be sure to dry them well after.
Since elder buns are less active, their nails will not naturally wear down and may need to be clipped more often. Overgrown nails can be painful.
When grooming your rabbit you will need to check and keep clean his or her scent glands. Ease open the slits located to the left and right of their vent and using a Q-tip gently extract the waxy build up.
Enrichment & Exercise
As the elder bun slows, down exercise and mental stimulation are still extremely important. Provide enrichment activities like safe toys, tunnels, forage mats, or hiding spots to keep your rabbit mentally thriving. If your rabbit has trouble moving and exercise is an issue, ask your vet about physical therapy exercises and massage to keep the muscles from atrophying.
End of life Preparedness
Your rabbit has been a significant part of your life, providing companionship, comfort, and joy. By acknowledging your rabbit’s final stage of life and planning accordingly, you can make their life more comfortable. As a rabbit nears the end of life, your focus should be on keeping them comfortable and pain-free. This may include providing pain medication, making their environment as stress-free as possible, and helping them with grooming and feeding.
Once your rabbit has begun the elder bun stage, it is only inevitable that you will have to deal with their passing. It is a good idea to have a plan in place with your vet or cemetery so you can focus on them when the time comes. Anticipatory grief can be common during this stage of life and of course your grief in general will be that much deeper as caregiver once your rabbit is gone.
Final Thoughts
Just like most humans, rabbits will inevitably go through the elder bun stage of life. And just like us, they will need extra care and modifications to their environment. With a little forethought and some early planning, you can make life a little bit easier for both of you transitioning into the senior years.
