A regular monthly health check up can help identify issues early and ensure your rabbit lives a long and healthy life.
Giving your rabbit a home health exam is an important part of responsible rabbit ownership. There is no better health prevention for your rabbit… It could be what saves their life! By now you probably have heard that rabbits are infamous for masking how they feel when they are sick. Observing your bunny’s behavior daily and knowing how they act when they are happy and healthy will help you to determine when they are not up to par.
Learn by observation. Keep a mental note, or even a written record, of what they eat & how much water they drink, how much hay they munch on, what their normal poops look like as well as the quantity of output, their normal urine color and in general overall activity each day. If you have a spunky playful bunny that starts to sleep, or a bunny who poops a lot of golden nuggets that suddenly turn small or non-existent, then something is definitely wrong and you will need to see an exotic vet.
While monthly assessments are valuable, it’s also essential to have an established relationship with a veterinarian who specializes in rabbit care. Your vet can give you hands on training ahead of time on what to look for when conducting your monthly exam. Annual veterinary check-ups are also crucial for comprehensive health care, as they can provide vaccinations, discuss diet and nutrition, and address any specific health concerns unique to your rabbit’s breed or age.
10 Reasons for a Monthly Health Check Up
Performing a monthly health check up on your pet rabbit is essential for several reasons:
- Early Detection of Health Issues: A regular monthly health check up will allow you to detect health problems in their early stages, making them easier and less expensive to treat.
- Preventive Care: Monthly assessments can help you manage possible weight issues or dental problems.
- Bonding and Trust: Handling your rabbit for health assessments helps build trust between you and your pet. When done gently and respectfully, it can be a positive bonding experience. Having your rabbit learn to be handled in a non-stressful environment will help them when they need to be handled by a vet or groomer.
- Monitoring Changes: Tracking your rabbit’s weight, behavior, and overall condition over time can help you notice subtle changes that might indicate underlying health problems or stress.
- Dental Health: Regularly checking your rabbit’s teeth can help prevent dental issues, which are common in rabbits. You can identify overgrown teeth or malocclusions early, ensuring they receive timely dental care.
- Parasite Control: Monitoring your rabbit’s fur and skin can help you spot signs of external parasites, such as fleas or mites. Early treatment can prevent these pests from causing discomfort or spreading to other pets.
- Digestive Health: Rabbits are prone to digestive problems, such as gastrointestinal stasis. Regular monitoring can help you identify early signs like reduced appetite, changes in stool quality, or bloating.
- Weight Management: Tracking your rabbit’s weight can help you manage their diet and ensure they maintain a healthy weight. Obesity is a common problem in pet rabbits and can lead to various health issues.
- Aging Gracefully: As rabbits age, their healthcare needs can change. Regular health assessments help you adapt their care routine to their changing needs, ensuring they age gracefully and comfortably.
- Peace of Mind: Regular health assessments can provide peace of mind knowing that you are taking proactive steps to keep your rabbit healthy and address any potential issues promptly
14 Steps for a Monthly Health Check Up
I like to perform my monthly health check up when my buns are in a sleepy relaxed state. I would highly recommend not doing an exam at the peak of your bunny’s active times as it will be harder to contain them.
Gather Your Supplies:
- Rabbit-safe treats or vegetables for positive reinforcement.
- A towel or blanket to gently restrain the rabbit.
- Disposable Gloves
- Heavy duty gloves if you have a biter
- A well-lit, quiet, and comfortable area for the examination. (I do mine on the floor)
- A notepad and pen to record your observations.
Prepare Your Environment:
- Ensure the room is quiet and free from distractions.
- Set up a comfortable, non-slip surface for your rabbit to sit on.
Approach Calmly:
- Approach your rabbit calmly and quietly to avoid causing stress.
- Use treats or vegetables to lure your rabbit into position.
General Observation:
Begin by observing your rabbit’s overall appearance, posture, and behavior. Look for any signs of distress, lethargy, or abnormal behavior.
Check the Fur and Skin:
- Examine the fur for cleanliness, matting, or signs of parasites like fleas or mites.
- Gently part the fur and inspect the skin for any lumps, bumps, or wounds.
Check the Eyes:
- Check the eyes for any discharge, redness, cloudiness, or signs of injury.
- They should be clear and bright.
- Check around the perimeter of the eye for any bumps which could be a sign of abscess.
Examine the Ears:
- Check the ears for dirt, discharge, or signs of ear mites.
- They should be clean and free from crust or excessive wax with no odor.
Inspect the Nose:
The nose should be dry, clean, and free from discharge or crust.
Check the Mouth & Teeth:
- Gently lift your rabbit’s lips to examine the front teeth (incisors). They should be straight and well-aligned.
- Gums should be a nice pink color
- Check for overgrown, chipped or broken teeth which may require veterinary attention.
Look at the Nails, Toes, Legs and Hocks:
- Inspect the nails for length and signs of overgrowth. Check to make sure none have been torn off.
- Check the toes to make sure they are straight.
- Look at the hocks to make sure they are covered in fur. (free of any abrasions)
- Check each leg and foot to see that they are straight and moving properly. Make sure they are walking with no limping or weakness.
Palpate the Body:
- Gently run your hands over your rabbit’s body to check for any lumps, bumps, or signs of pain.
- Pay special attention to the abdomen, where you might feel any unusual masses or gurgling gassy sounds.
Check the Tail and Genital Area:
- Examine the tail for cleanliness and any signs of injury.
- Inspect the genital area for signs of infection or discharge, including the scent glands.
Monitor Breathing and Heart Rate:
- Watch your rabbit’s breathing for any rapid or labored breathing, which can indicate respiratory issues.
- Average normal respirations for a rabbit are between 30-60/ minute.
- Listen to your rabbits heartbeat. The average is between 120-150 beats/minute.
Weigh Your Rabbit:
Regularly weigh your rabbit to monitor for changes in weight, which can be an early sign of health issues.
If you notice any abnormalities during the health exam or if you have concerns about your rabbit’s health, consult your veterinarian immediately. Problems treated early have a better chance of being resolved as well as keeping your bunny from suffering.
You can find items needed for a monthly health check up in the Mercantile!
