Special needs rabbits often get overlooked or even worse relinquished or dumped outside due to their disability. Just like a human, a rabbit with disabilities needs extra special care and love. Some of it can be time consuming, emotionally or mentally draining and physically tiring. It takes a special person willing to give their time and money to care for a disabled bun.
Caring for special needs rabbits involves tailoring their environment, diet, and daily care to meet their unique requirements. It may also involve providing extra medical attention, including consultations with rabbit-savvy veterinarians who can manage their specific health issues. In some cases, specialized equipment or adaptations to their living space may be necessary to ensure their comfort and safety.
Though we will not get in depth into each disability in this article, we are going to take a quick look at the types of special needs, the adoption stigma, caring for and alternative treatments for disabled rabbits.
Types of Special Needs Buns
Although rabbits can be born with disabilities, others can occur at any point in time during their lives. With their fragile body structure, a rabbit can become incapacitated due to fracturing of bones. These types of injuries can occur from a fall, improper handling or a fight with another rabbit. Illnesses can also leave a bunny hard to care for. Ear infection and E. Cuniculi can showcase the ravages of a parasite leaving a bun with a head tilt and kidney disease. And like us humans, old age can also be a cause.
Causes of Special Needs
Physical Disabilities: Special needs rabbits may have mobility issues due to conditions like paralysis, limb deformities, or missing limbs. Rabbits can be born with these or develop them during their life.
Blindness or Vision Impairments
Deafness: Deaf rabbits may not respond to auditory cues, so they require alternative methods of communication and may need extra care to prevent startling.
Chronic Health Conditions: Some rabbits have chronic medical conditions such as dental disease, arthritis, or heart problems. These conditions may require ongoing medication, special diets, or regular veterinary visits.
Neurological Disorders: Rabbits with neurological conditions may have difficulty with balance and coordination. They may require assistance in maintaining their stability and mobility.
Behavioral Challenges: Special needs can also refer to rabbits with severe behavioral issues, such as aggression, extreme fear, or compulsive behaviors. These rabbits may require behavior modification and patience.
Aging: Older rabbits have different care requirements than younger ones. They may need more frequent vet visits and special diets to address age-related health concerns.
Social Needs: Some rabbits may have specific social needs, such as those who have been traumatized or are particularly shy. They may require a nurturing and patient approach to build trust and provide emotional support.
Types of Special Needs:
- paralyzation
- head tilt
- splay leg
- limb loss
- stroke
- cancer
- infection
- congenital disorders
- blindness, glaucoma
- abscesses
- arthritis
- incontinence
- hearing loss
- behavioral
Adoption of Special Needs Rabbits
Unfortunately special needs rabbits often face more challenges in finding adoptive homes compared to healthy rabbits. Potential adopters may have concerns about the time, effort, and financial commitments involved in caring for a rabbit with specific needs. Additionally, some medical conditions or disabilities may require ongoing veterinary care, which can be a deterrent for some adopters.
Advocating for special needs rabbits is a necessity in giving them the lives they so deserve.
Awareness and Education: Higher adoption rates could potentially be achieved when the public is educated about the needs and capabilities of these rabbits. Rescue organizations and shelters often work to increase awareness of special needs rabbits and dispel misconceptions.
Rescue Organizations: The existence of rabbit rescue organizations that specialize in caring for and rehabilitating special needs rabbits can significantly boost adoption rates. These organizations may have dedicated volunteers and resources to provide medical care and support.
Dedicated Adopters: Some individuals actively seek to adopt special needs rabbits due to their compassion and willingness to provide the care and attention these rabbits need. These dedicated adopters can play a crucial role in increasing adoption rates by spreading the word of their own experiences.
Foster Homes: Foster homes can provide specialized care and rehabilitation for special needs rabbits, making them more adoptable. These homes often work closely with rescue organizations to prepare the rabbits for adoption.
Social Media and Online Adoption Platforms: The use of social media, websites, and online adoption platforms such as Petfinder has made it easier to showcase special needs rabbits in need of homes, which can increase adoption rates by reaching a broader audience.
Special Programs: Some shelters and rescue organizations offer special programs to encourage the adoption of special needs rabbits. This can include reduced adoption fees, ongoing support, and educational resources.
Support Networks: In areas where there is a strong network of rabbit enthusiasts and supporters, adoption rates for special needs rabbits may be higher due to shared knowledge, resources, and encouragement. Facebook and Instagram have wonderful support groups which is great because often answeres are just a click away!
To improve adoption rates for special needs rabbits, it’s essential for rescue organizations and shelters to continue their advocacy and educational efforts and for potential adopters to be informed about the needs and rewards of caring for these unique animals.
Caring for Special Needs Rabbits
As I’ve already said, caring for a special needs rabbit requires some extra attention and accommodations to ensure their well-being. The first step is to consult an exotic vet to get a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. Try to find one who is experienced in treating special needs rabbits.
The next step is to educate yourself. Learn everything you can about your rabbit’s specific condition and research how to care for rabbits with similar needs. Join online forums or support groups to connect with other rabbit owners who have special needs pets. Know that you must be patient and understanding with your bun. They may have limitations that will require extra time for tasks like eating, drinking, or moving around. Be patient and provide support as needed.
Modifying the living environment: Ensure your bun has a safe and comfortable living space, free from hazards that could harm him or her. Provide appropriate flooring, bedding, and insulation to accommodate any mobility or comfort issues. Modify the living space to accommodate physical limitations, such as ramps for mobility-impaired rabbits. Maintain a routine as best you can with their food, water, and litter box in the typical locations . Paralyzed rabbits or those that have had limbs amputated may need a custom wheelchair. Specialized litterboxes or incontinence pads help for buns that have mobility issues.
- Start with a x-pen as opposed to free roaming or a hutch. Limit the amount of space to what is needed.
- Create a water proof barrier on the floor
- Add some type of cushion on top of the floor
- Use washable pee pads
- Line to habitat with rolled towels
- Use low water and food bowls
Special diet and hydration: Special needs rabbits may require a modified diet to meet their nutritional needs. Consult your vet for recommendations. As always, have a lot of hay and water available 24/7. You may need to hand-feed or syringe-feed if your rabbit has difficulty eating or drinking. Note: Always keep Oxbow Critical Care or Sherwood Rabbit Emergency Kit on hand.
Medications and treatment: Administer any prescribed medications or treatments as directed by your veterinarian. Keep a detailed medical record of your rabbit’s condition and treatment plan.
Regular check-ups: Schedule regular vet visits to monitor your rabbit’s condition and adjust the treatment plan as needed.
Physical therapy and exercise: Consult your vet about appropriate exercises or physical therapy to maintain muscle strength and mobility. If you are unsure how to perform these yourself, there are physical therapists for rabbits.
Mental stimulation: Special needs rabbits can still benefit from mental stimulation and social interaction. Provide toys and companionship (if suitable for your rabbit’s condition). Organic edible toys such as apple sticks and hay stuffed tubes are great. Keep in mind that items like tunnels and hide-a-ways may not be conducive to a special needs rabbit.
Grooming and hygiene: Some special needs rabbits may require extra care for grooming and hygiene such as wearing diapers. For severely disabled rabbits, you will have to catch their cecotropes and feed them to them. Yes, it may sound gross, but you will become quite used to it and your bun will love you for it. Regularly check for matted fur, clean their bottom if needed, and trim their nails. Check their hocks and fur for urine scald. Use water based wipes for spot cleaning otherwise only wash the areas that need it. A bunny should not be given a full bath, however you can do a sitz bath. Make sure to dry your bunny as quickly as possible after.
Monitor stress levels: Special needs rabbits may be more susceptible to stress. Create a calm and quiet environment and provide hiding spots where they can feel safe. Stress can cause other illnesses such as stasis so you need to be vigilant with this.
Remember that the care requirements for special needs rabbits can vary greatly depending on the specific condition.
Alternative Treatments
Disclosure: I am not a vet, nor do I claim to have answers to medical illness for rabbits. I am educating on possible alternative tools that may be used in conjunction with traditional treatments. As always please consult your exotic vet before attempting any type of treatment.
Holistic treatments for special needs rabbits can complement conventional veterinary care and help improve their overall well-being. It’s essential to consult with a veterinarian experienced in rabbit care before implementing any holistic therapies to ensure they are safe and appropriate for your rabbit’s specific condition.
Acupuncture: Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medicine practice that involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body. It may be beneficial for rabbits with musculoskeletal issues or pain.
Herbal Remedies: Some herbal remedies, such as chamomile, ginger, or echinacea, might be used to address specific health issues in rabbits. However, it’s crucial to consult with a veterinarian or herbalist who is knowledgeable about safe herbs for rabbits.
Physical Therapy, Massage and Bodywork: Gentle massages or bodywork techniques can help improve circulation, reduce stress, and ease discomfort in special needs rabbits. Always consult a professional with experience in animal massage or bodywork.
Dietary Supplements: Certain supplements, like probiotics, can aid in digestion and support the immune system. Ensure that any supplements you provide are approved by your vet and appropriate for your rabbit’s needs.
Bach Flower Remedies: These are flower-based remedies used to address emotional and behavioral issues in animals. Some special needs rabbits may benefit from these remedies, but it’s important to consult with a knowledgeable practitioner.
Energy Healing: Techniques like Reiki or Healing Touch can be used to help balance your rabbit’s energy and promote relaxation. These therapies are non-invasive and gentle. Crystal healing is another non-invasive modality where crystals are placed on your buns chakra points or around their enclosure.
Laser Therapy: Laser therapy is a low stress treatment with minimal to no side effects that can help reduce chronic pain.
Hydrotherapy: Hydrotherapy involves using water to promote physical rehabilitation. It can be beneficial for rabbits with musculoskeletal problems but should only be done under the guidance of a qualified professional. (This is a controversial treatment as rabbits really should not be bathed for the stress factor)
Holistic Veterinarian: Consider seeking the services of a holistic veterinarian who is trained in both conventional and holistic treatments, BUT they should consult with your current exotic vet to help provide guidance on using a combination of approaches tailored to your rabbit’s needs.
Sound Healing: Sound healing, also known as vibrational or sound therapy, involves the use of sound and vibration to promote relaxation, reduce stress, and potentially support overall well-being. While sound therapy can be beneficial for humans, its effectiveness for animals, including rabbits with specific diseases, is less clear. However, you can experiment with gentle and soothing sounds to create a calming environment for your rabbit. I like to use YouTube for sound healing with my rabbits.
When using sound therapy for a rabbit with a disease, it’s important to be mindful of the volume. Rabbits have sensitive hearing, and loud or sudden noises can stress them. Always observe your rabbit’s behavior to ensure the sounds are not causing distress. If you notice any signs of discomfort or agitation, discontinue the sound therapy.
Different types of sound healing are:
- Nature Sounds: Playing recordings of nature sounds like birdsong, running water, or rustling leaves can create a peaceful atmosphere for your rabbit. These sounds may help reduce stress and anxiety.
- Soft Music: Calm, instrumental music can have a soothing effect on animals. Avoid loud or jarring music, and opt for gentle melodies.
- Binaural Beats: Binaural beats are audio tracks that use specific frequencies to influence brainwave patterns. They are sometimes used in sound therapy for relaxation and stress reduction. Some people have reported positive effects on pets, including rabbits, though more research is needed.
- Tibetan Singing Bowls: The harmonic tones produced by Tibetan singing bowls can be pleasant and calming for both humans and animals. Play them softly in the background to see if they have a positive impact on your rabbit’s well-being.
- Frequency Therapy: Some sound therapies involve specific frequencies designed to stimulate healing or relaxation. Research is ongoing in this area, but you might explore these approaches with the guidance of a knowledgeable practitioner.
Whether you are adopting a special needs rabbit or caring for your own who becomes disabled, it can be a rewarding experience strengthening the bond between the two of you. Keep in mind a disabled rabbit can still lead long, happy and fulfilling life. Just like the ebb and flow of life, so too will be the journey of the special needs rabbit so be prepared for the commitment and challenges that come with it. There will be good days and then your bun may regress, so don’t get discouraged. Keep an open and happy heart as your bun will be able to feel your feelings. If a treatment fails, try a new one. As long as your bun is willing to fight then so should you.
Please, if your bun becomes disabled and you find you can not care for it, never ever let it loose outside. They will not be able to fend for themselves and you are sentencing them to death. Call your nearest animal shelter, rescue or sanctuary and relinquish them to someone who can help. If you are afraid of judgement, don’t be. And if you want help, you can always message me and I will help you find an organization.
