In a recent and very interesting development, doctors are using the ability of pets to sniff out potentially fatal diseases in humans before they progress to advanced levels. Call it ESP or an enhanced olfactory sense that allows them to detect abnormal scents, the programs are remarkably accurate and so far, dogs are stealing the show. But doctors and researchers opine that even rabbits aren’t too far behind when it comes to detecting health conditions in humans. For example, it has been noted that rabbits display behavioral changes if and when their parents have fluctuations in their blood sugar levels. If only, we could detect health problems in pets so easily. But unfortunately, most pet parents rely on symptomatic assessment of health conditions in pets rather than using preventive measures. And if you are a rabbit parent, spotting the symptoms may take a lot more than casual observation. Rabbits have an inherent ability to hide symptoms. By the time one realizes that something is amiss, the condition may well have progressed to advanced levels requiring immediate medical assistance from a rabbit veterinarian. Having reared and bought up more than a dozen bunnies, we have had our fair share of misses. From shock to panic to desperation, we have been through all the emotions that most rabbit parents go through at some point in their lives. So, we figured that this was a great time to create a list of the most common health issues that might crop up in your bunnies from time to time and some tips on how to spot them early. #1 – Gastrointestinal StasisGI Stasis is a rabbit parent’s worst nightmare come true. This serious and potentially fatal condition occurs more commonly in rabbits than one would like to imagine. And what makes it so serious is that the symptoms are extremely difficult to spot. GI stasis occurs when the rabbit’s digestive system comes to a halt. Any rabbit food that the rabbit consumes is no longer processed and the metabolism is shut down. SymptomsLethargy, lack of appetite, bloating and reduced fecal matter. One of the easiest ways to detect GI Stasis in rabbits is to rest your ears on your bunny’s abdomen gently and listen for sounds of the digestive system functioning normally. There’s typically a gurgling sound or something similar. If you do not hear any sounds at all, then there are chances that the digestive system may have shut down. TreatmentIn most of the cases, emergency surgery by a rabbit veterinarian may be the need of the hour. But if you have spotted the condition early, then your vet may be able to treat the condition using motility drugs and IV fluids. But if the condition has progressed and the digestive system has shut down completely, then the only way to reactivate the rabbit’s digestive system is via surgery. Contact a veterinarian immediately if you notice any of the above mentioned symptoms. PreventionAn active bunny is a fit bunny. One of the ways to prevent GI stasis is to ensure that your bunny has an adequate supply of a variety of fresh hay, time and place for exercise and lots of fresh water. A high fiber diet will keep the digestive system active and also help reduce the risk of dental problems. #2 – Ear MitesEar Mites are undoubtedly among the most common health conditions that can occur in rabbits. That’s irrespective of whether you keep your bunny indoors or outdoors. The good news is that the condition appears to be a lot more serious than it actually is. It is easily treatable. Having said that, if left untreated, it can quickly progress into secondary infections of the middle and inner ear. In extreme cases, mite infestations can also progress to meningitis. So, like any other health condition, you might want to start diagnosis and early treatment for ear mites. Ear mites are contagious. So the chances of your bunny picking up mites after coming into contact with another infected bunny are high. SymptomsOne of the first symptoms of an ear mite infestation is intense bouts of itching around the ears, neck and head. The itching may be generalized or focused mainly around the ears. There will be scales on the inner ear which will eventually form thick crusted lesions. There may be hair loss and occasional peeling of the skin. If the infestation has penetrated into the inner ear, it may cause loss of balance or head tilt in bunnies. Mite infestations can also spread to other parts of the rabbit’s body especially the belly and the area that surrounds the anus. TreatmentDiagnosis involves taking samples of an exudate that is secreted from the crusted lesions. Your vet may then prescribe anti-parasitic drugs like ivermectin. Treatment also involves cleaning and treating the rabbit’s enclosure or hutch because the condition is contagious and can recur. Everything from the rabbit’s bed to utensils and combs must be completely disinfected before reusing. Never remove the crusts from the ears because it may expose the underlying skin which is prone to infections. Home remedies include using honey or vegetable oil to remove infestations in the early stages. PreventionThe best way to prevent mite infestations in rabbits is to avoid contact with other infected bunnies. Maintain healthy grooming habits that allow you to spot the infection early. Keep the rabbit’s environment clean and sanitized. Ensure that your rabbit has ample room. Ear mite infestations have also been linked to increased stress in rabbits. Keep your pet clean and happy to keep the pesky bugs away.
#3 – Sore Hocks‘Ulcerative Pododermatitis’ also known as ‘sore hocks’ is a condition in which the sole on the rabbit’s rear legs get infected and inflamed. The condition is typically localized in the area of the rabbit’s feet which come into contact with the floor as the rabbit rests. Sore Hocks can occur due to multiple reasons. But the most common one is a hard floor or wired floor often seen in low quality rabbit hutches. Excessive moisture can also lead to inflammation of the feet. If left untreated, the condition progresses to severe inflammation and can cause lesions filled with pus. In extreme cases, it can affect the connective tissue making it impossible for the bunny to rest or walk normally. It may also limit the supply of blood to the connective tissue leading to brittle bones and even bone death. SymptomsSore Hocks can range from mild to severe and are usually graded depending on the severity of the condition. In grades I to III, the condition is considered moderate and the bunny will show signs of hair loss near the bottom of the rear feet. Swelling is rare but not unusual. In some cases, the skin will become excessively red and may form scabs and ulcers which can be prone to infection. Grades IV and V are advanced stages which are usually characterized by pustules, abscesses and inflamed tendons. Bone marrow infection can occur leading to disability, imbalance and an abnormal posture. TreatmentThe earlier the condition is diagnosed, the easier it is for the rabbit to recover fully from it. Diagnosis involves ruling out abscesses caused due to injury or fractures. Most vets may recommend an ultrasound to detect how advanced the condition has become. Rabbits that are diagnosed with bone infections will require undergoing an extended treatment that may take months. In early stages, the treatment revolves around pain management, reducing discomfort and inflammation. In the later stages however, surgical procedures may be recommended to remove dead tissue and prevent extreme infections. PreventionWell, the good news is that sore hocks can easily be prevented. Ensure that your rabbit has a soft and dry surface to rest on. It must be free of excessive moisture, including urine and feces. Keep the rabbit hutch in a dry environment. Keep an eye out for early signs of infection. If the rabbit hutch has a wire floor, then cover it with a thick and soft layer of flooring. #4 – SnufflesSnuffles are one of those conditions that look innocuous enough to avoid the need for veterinary assistance. But in reality, this annoying upper respiratory tract disorder can leave your bunny gasping for breath and if left untreated, can quickly progress into other conditions like conjunctivitis, wryneck and imbalance. What is worse is that almost every domesticated rabbit will be hit with a bout of snuffles at some point or the other. One of the reasons that it is so widespread is because the condition is incredibly contagious. So, if your bunny is out for their periodic vet visit and comes into contact with an infected bunny or even the nasal discharge, they are on track to get infected themselves and possibly infect their partners who share the hutch. SymptomsThere are many different strains of the bacteria that cause snuffles. The symptoms that your bunny will display depend on the exact strain that has infected them. Some can be as mild as a runny nose with a watery discharge. In advanced cases, the discharge is thick, yellowish and has a mucous like consistency. This is followed by bouts of sneezing and snuffling during which the rabbit finds it difficult to breathe normally. If left undetected or untreated, the infection progresses into the inner ear triggering a horde of unpleasant symptoms. Wryneck which is an uncharacteristic twisting of the neck is one of the conditions triggered by untreated snuffles. Rabbit parents often find it impossible to believe that the runny nose could have triggered something so severe in their pets. There have been cases in which untreated snuffles has triggered pneumonia in rabbits. TreatmentThe normal mode of treatment is antibiotic therapy that may last for almost a month depending on the severity of the condition. But antibiotics and the digestive system in bunnies are not a great combination because it often ends up killing the healthy bacteria in the gut that aid digestion. So, vets usually supplement the healthy bacterial strains during treatment with antibiotics. Ensure that your rabbit has a healthy and nutritious diet during treatment. If the condition was not diagnosed early, then it may develop chronic sinus infections that take prolonged treatment to control. There have even been cases in which the rabbit needed lifelong medication to keep the condition under control. PreventionFor a condition so prevalent among domesticated rabbit breeds, prevention plays a very critical role in ensuring that your pet is not infected with snuffles. If you have multiple pets and one pet is showing signs of an infection, then strict quarantine should be maintained until the infected bunny heals completely. Any shared bedding, food, water and hutch should be cleaned and disinfected. Keep your bunny healthy and active at all times to prevent their immune systems from being suppressed or compromised. Stress can often trigger conditions like snuffles. If you are a rabbit breeder, then ensure that you select a healthy young rabbit that does not have any signs of a possible infection. #5 – Cocci or CoccidiosisIf you have ever been to rabbit support groups or checked online forums for support on rabbit health, you are most likely to have heard about Cocci or Coccidiosis. It has a nasty reputation for being one of those conditions that can lie hidden in your pet for days or even weeks without any symptoms whatsoever. By the time you start to notice that something is amiss, the infection may already have progressed to severe requiring urgent medical attention. For the uninitiated, cocci are caused due to a parasitic infection by a parasite known as Eimeria sp. There are more than 25 known species of the parasite and most rabbits are believed to be asymptomatic carriers of the protozoa. This means that a healthy bunny’s immune system develops immunity to the condition. However, if the immunity is compromised or the rabbit is young or ailing, then the infection can be triggered. SymptomsThe symptoms in coccidiosis are extremely difficult to spot. In early stages, it may be as common as a lackluster coat which overlaps with a plethora of other conditions in rabbits. Some other symptoms include anemia, dehydration, weight loss, lack of appetitie and depression. In intestinal coccidiosis, advanced stages can lead to convulsions and even paralysis in rabbits. On the other hand, in hepatic coccidiosis, it can lead to liver damage and bile duct damage. In extreme cases, it can lead to coma and even death. TreatmentEarly and accurate diagnosis is the key to successful treatment of Coccidiosis. Most vets start by discussing the pet’s history and by using symptoms to narrow down on the exact cause. Fecal examination can at times reveal oocysts. But once again, it is extremely difficult to separate those from normal yeast which are common in rabbit feces. In advanced cases, vets may recommend a radiograph to detect signs of liver damage or fluid buildup. Unfortunately, treatment is aimed at management of the condition rather than completely curing it. Treatment methodology is dependent on the symptoms. If the rabbit is displaying signs of dehydration, then intravenous fluids are administered to help restore normal fluid levels in the body. Intestinal coccidiosis is treated with antiprotozoal drugs like Sulfaquinoxaline. Treatment is started for small time durations like 7 days and then repeated to ensure that the condition is contained. The same medication is prescribed for hepatic coccidiosis as well but it rarely prevents liver lesions from forming. Some vets also prescribe antibiotics and dietary supplements which help to boost the immune system as the primary infection is being treated. With early diagnosis and treatment, most rabbits are able to build a lifelong immunity against the protozoa. PreventionPrevention of cocci in rabbits is possible with a regular and stringent sanitation program. The rabbits environment should be cleaned and checked periodically for signs of infection. The hutch should be scrubbed clean of any fecal matter. Use ammonia 10% solution to disinfect the rabbit cage. Keep your bunny active and healthy by providing them with ample room to move around. A healthy diet that is rich in timothy hay with fresh vegetables and fruits will help develop a strong immune system and gut. This is not the most exhaustive list of illnesses and health conditions that can occur in rabbits. But these are by far the most common ones that you are likely to encounter. We hope that this helps you in the early diagnosis, treatment and most importantly, prevention of these conditions in your pets. We would love to hear your thoughts. So feel free to chime in. Images source: Bigstock.com The post Common Rabbit Health Issues and How to Deal With Them appeared first on Rabbit Expert. via Blogger Common Rabbit Health Issues and How to Deal With Them
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First time rabbit parents find themselves wrecking their nerves trying to figure out rabbit grooming. ‘Why is the rabbit shedding so much?’ ‘A bunch of hair just came out and there’s a bald spot. Did I just pluck out more hair than what’s required?’ ‘The nails seem too long. Should I clip it? Will it bleed?’ There’s never a dearth of doubt when it comes to grooming techniques and methods for bunnies. This has partly to do with the fact that rabbits as pets are fairly recent. For a long time, they were bred for meat and fur. So, even experienced rabbit parents sometimes find themselves at their wits end trying to figure out grooming. Unlike dogs, rabbits have an entirely different set of grooming requirements that begins with regular brushing and ends with periodic inspection of the rabbit’s body parts. A well groomed rabbit will be healthy, happy and disease free. So it is crucial that you familiarize yourself with the essentials of rabbit grooming. Also, along with helping maintain the health of the rabbit, grooming also helps you create an everlasting bond with your pet. It is not uncommon for rabbits to look forward to grooming time as they relax and enjoy the experience. We created this Rabbit Grooming 101 guide for new as well as seasoned rabbit owners to make grooming safe, easy and enjoyable. We will cover every aspect of grooming in detail including some basic over the counter recommended medications for common health problems in rabbits. The Basics of GroomingDespite appearing that they don’t need attention and that they can groom themselves pretty well, rabbits are extremely delicate creatures that can rarely display symptoms of health problems. Grooming them regularly helps you keep an eye out for potential problems and spot them before they can escalate to more serious ones. The supplies that you need:
So are you all set to begin? Brushing Your RabbitBrushing helps to remove the hair that the rabbit sheds naturally. And rabbits shed a lot. Most rabbit breeds shed heavily once in three months. The shedding alternates between unnoticeable and mild to heavy during which the rabbit’s coat is replaced by a new one. The duration of the heavy shedding is highly breed specific and also dependent on the bunny itself. You may find that one of your bunnies sheds a lot more than the other. Irrespective of the breed, brushing once a week for short haired breeds ensures that any of shed hair that may be clinging on to the coat is released. For long haired breeds like Angora, brushing is recommended at least once every three days. This also helps to prepare the bunny for the daily brushing sessions that will replace the weekly sessions during phases of molting or heavy shedding. Brushing TechniqueSoft-bristle brushes are perfect for brushing your rabbit’s coat. You should be careful to brush in the direction of the fur only. This is more than sufficient to bring any loose hair to the surface which can then be removed by hand. Some vets also use two different types of brushes for rabbits. While brushes with wider teeth are preferred for breeds with longer hair, bristled brushes are used for shorter fur. If there are too many tangles, you can use a mat rake. When brushing on the underside, gently position the rabbit on your lap making them comfortable. You can use a towel or any other soft cloth to allow the rabbit to rest. Rabbits often doze away into slumber land when you brush their underside. Another simple technique is to wet your hands and just run it over the coat to remove any loose hair. This cannot be considered as a replacement for proper brushing. But it does help to remove any small fur that may not be removed with normal brushing. HairballsRabbits like cats constantly lick themselves as part of their grooming behavior which can result in them ingesting hair. This can cause hairballs which are also known as trichobezoars. But unlike cats, they cannot vomit the hairballs out and it can cause an obstruction in their stomach or in their intestinal tract. Grooming helps to reduce the risk of hairballs in rabbits. One of the telltale signs of a hairball obstruction is lack of appetite and activity. Also, the quantity of feces will reduce significantly. If you suspect a hairball obstruction in rabbits, then contact a vet immediately. Matted FurTime and again, you may discover matted fur on your bunny’s body. Sometimes, it can be in locations which are very difficult to comb through. For example, under the tail. You might be tempted to go chop-chop on the mat as it can easily alleviate the tension that it causes. But rabbits have extremely delicate skin which is easily prone to cuts from a scissor. You can use a mat rake with a fine blade to take the mat apart. In case you find it very difficult to remove with a rake, speak to your vet for help. Mites And FleasDespite frequent grooming and care, fleas and mites can find their way on to your rabbit’s skin and fur. These pesky little critters can hide themselves amazingly well and by the time you notice your rabbit scratching their gut out, the fleas might have spread to a full blown infestation. The first and most important thing is to find out the number of fleas on your rabbits body. Gently run your hands parting the fur to spot the fleas. If the infestation is mild, then use a flea comb. It is pretty similar to using a grooming comb and rabbits usually like being combed. After combing, if you find any fleas in the comb, then dip it in a soap solution or alcohol to ensure that the fleas are killed. If the infestation is severe, then you may need to speak to a vet who will recommend a topical medication like Advantage, Program or Revolution. All three of these are brand names for topical insecticides which are safe for application in rabbits. Care must be taken to ensure that the rabbits do not lick or ingest the medication as it can cause an upset tummy. One of the best spots to apply the medication is behind the neck. Revolution in particular, is considered as one of the best treatments for multiple conditions including mites that cause ear canker and mange. Speak to your vet about measuring the medication so that you can administer the right doses. Also, mite eggs can often hide in the fur or dander that the rabbit sheds. For this reason, it is crucial that you completely scrub and clean both, the cage as well as the area that the rabbit enjoys a free run in. That may be the house or the backyard or the run. But it must be vacuumed and any fur or dander that the rabbit may have shed prior to the treatment must be removed. Scratchy SkinRabbits can develop bald patches or flakes on their skin due to mites. Sometimes, it can also be caused due to an allergy triggered by fleas. In either cases, your vet may recommend one of the three medications that we have mentioned above. In cases of chronic inflammation or in case of bacterial infections like pyoderma, speak to your vet about the best treatment methodology. Cleaning The Scent GlandsIf your rabbit suddenly smells like a skunk, then it may be due to the buildup of a gooey or waxy substance in their scent glands around the anus. This is scent musk and is a normal secretion in rabbits. However, some bunnies secret a lot more than others. It has a very pungent odor and cleaning or unplugging the glands from time to time helps prevent the buildup and the odor to an extent. Gently position the rabbit on your lap, lift up the tail and part the skin around the little anus to expose the scent glands. You will be able to see the waxy buildup now. Use a Q-tip to scoop out the secretion from one gland. Repeat for the other gland as well. You can also use a cotton wad dipped in some petroleum jelly to lubricate the gland. This makes it easier to remove the waxy secretion. FYI, rabbits also have scent glands under their chin which they use to mark their territory. NailsHouse rabbits often do not get enough exercise on a variety of ground surfaces. They spend most of their lifespan on carpeted floors or linoleum surfaces which prevents their nails from being naturally worn out and maintained. So, you may have to trim the nails from time to time to a suitable length. Nail trimming is a fairly simple process once you know the precise length to trim it to. The nail has a vein in it which is also called the quick. You need to clip the nails just below the quick. If you accidentally do clip the quick (common occurrence), just apply Styptic powder to stop the bleeding. If you are new to it, your vet can help you with the process. Some rabbits are petrified of nail trimming. So, it is important to associate nail trimming with positive reinforcement. Offering them treats or patting them helps ease the anxiety. Also, if you start at an early age, the bunny will get desensitized to the trimming. Declawing a RabbitNever ever, declaw a rabbit. A rabbit’s claw helps them generate traction on the floor and they are not retractable like those of a cat. In effect, the rabbit will be hopping around on the surgery site for days to come until it is completely healed. Not only is it extremely painful for the bunny, but it is very likely to get infected. Sore HocksRabbit cages must have rugs or fleece blankets that provide your bunny with a soft and comfortable resting place. This will help prevent the padding of the feet from being worn out or form calluses. Calluses or skin inflammation on the pads must be treated immediately for the risk of infection which can become chronic over a period of time. Also, ensure that the resting rugs are dry. Moist surfaces can trigger a bacterial skin infection. TeethWith the incessant gnawing and chewing on the hay that is kept in their hutch or cage, a rabbit usually keeps their teeth growth in check. However, if your bunny has crooked teeth then it may not get worn out naturally with the chewing. In such cases, you may have to clip the teeth to restrict or control their growth. If left unchecked, it grows to an extent that the rabbit finds it impossible to eat and can even starve to death. You can use a teeth clipper yourself or you can take your rabbit to the vet to get the teeth clipped. It’s a simple and painless procedure. Bathing TimeIt’s fun to see the bunny frolic in water, isn’t it? Well, it is far from fun for the rabbit. Rabbits hate water. In fact, they despise the experience so much that it can traumatize them and make them extremely anxious. In some rare cases, it can also cause a heart attack. Rabbits do not need to be bathed. Like cats, they are excellent at licking themselves clean. However, there may be situations when you feel that the rabbit needs to be bathed. For example, it has a poopy butt or has tracked in dirt or has matted fur all over. You can always use a damp towel to spot clean. Read our section on matted fur to know how to detangle mats. But let me reiterate. Never bathe the rabbit unless your vet recommends it as a measure to bring down fever. Checking The EarsThe buildup of ear wax or debris in a rabbit’s ears must be cleaned at least once every four weeks. Just check the inside of the ear and use a cotton swab or a baby wipe to scoop out the wax. Do not use Q-tips as it may cause the wax to get pushed further inside the ears. Also, there’s always the risk of damaging the inner ear. If your rabbit hutch is outdoors, then ear mite infestations will occur at some point or the other. Thankfully, the condition is easy to treat if diagnosed early. You can use a topical solution like Mitox or anything similar that your vet recommends. Once the condition is treated completely, use baby oil to prevent a reinfection. The EyesLast but not the least, we have the rabbit’s eyes. Your bunny’s eyes will naturally produce some gunk or wax which form crusts in the corner. These can be removed by using a damp cotton swab allowing the crust to loosen first. However, if you feel that the rabbit is crying or there’s a white mucus like discharge from the eyes, then it may be a condition called runny eyes or epiphora. This is one of the commonest conditions in rabbits. The only respite may be to head to the vet because if it is a bacterial infection, it needs to be checked before it spreads or becomes more severe. The Vet Check upEven if you are a diligent groomer, you still need to ensure that your bunny gets its periodic checkup by a veterinarian. If you are unsure whether the vet is rabbit savvy, you can always use the House Rabbit Society Veterinarian Index to find a rabbit-savvy vet close to you. Regular health checkups help to spot any potential health condition that you may have missed out on. Remember what we told you about the lack of symptoms in rabbits? To Sum it upAfter every successful grooming session, pat your rabbit to encourage them and instill a positive feeling about the grooming experience. You can also use their favorite treats. Images source: Bigstock.com The post Rabbit Grooming Guide For Responsible Rabbit Owners appeared first on Rabbit Expert. via Blogger Rabbit Grooming Guide For Responsible Rabbit Owners A new pet rabbit should first be taken to a qualified veterinarian for a check up. I say qualified veterinarian because some veterinarians choose not to see rabbits. Ask for a recommendation from a rabbit rescue, they should be able to give you a list of veterinarians to use. I cannot stress enough the importance of this first exam, you need to establish a relationship with a veterinarian. That way if the bunny is ever sick you have a veterinarian to make an appointment with. Veterinarians are busy; they will be more likely to squeeze in an emergency with an existing client over someone they don’t know. Rabbits are sensitive and because of that fact owners should be on the look out for signs of illness. Signs of illness in rabbits include but are not limited too:
If your rabbit is displaying any of the above symptoms contact your rabbit veterinarian immediately. To truly know when your rabbit is sick you need to spend time with your pet. Play with your bunny and handle it (if tolerated) often. That is the only way you’ll be able to catch illness early. Image source: Bigstock.com The post Signs of Illness in Pet Rabbits: Is my Pet Rabbit Ill? appeared first on Rabbit Expert. via Blogger Signs of Illness in Pet Rabbits: Is my Pet Rabbit Ill? Like other mammals, pet rabbits are susceptible to certain problems and illnesses. It is beneficial for owners to be aware of these potential problems so that they can do their best to prevent them. Common Rabbit Illnesses And ProblemsThere are certain rabbit illnesses that pet rabbits are susceptible too, however, with proper care, correct diet, and regular handing and cleaning of the rabbit hutch, owners can prevent many problems. Some common rabbit illnesses include:
Rabbit ParasitesJust like dogs and cats, rabbits can suffer from parasite infestation. Many are preventable or treatable with correct care. Owners that are concerned should consult the veterinarian. These rabbit parasites include:
Owners should seek veterinary advice if their rabbit is showing signs or illness, is lethargic, off its food or any other signs. Image source: Bigstock.com The post Common Rabbit Illnesses And Problems appeared first on Rabbit Expert. via Blogger Common Rabbit Illnesses And Problems If you’re buying a pet bunny from a pet store or a backyard breeder, you need to make sure it is absolutely healthy before bringing it home to your family. Some diseases, including some forms of mange and most parasites can be contagious to humans, especially small children. Consider adopting a bunny from an animal rescue organization, or at the very least, know what to look for when shopping for your rabbit. Check Out The Bunny’s HeadThe first things to look at when shopping for a healthy bunny are the eyes—they should be clear and not runny or congested with a watery discharge. A healthy bunny’s nose should be pink inside and relatively dry. Its nostrils should expand and contract in a steady, even manner unless it is extremely hot, in which case the respiration will be more rapid. If you notice blue discoloration or rapid breathing under mild weather conditions, you may suspect potential heart and lung problems or some sort of infection. If the bunny is sneezing a lot, he may have a contagious disease called “snuffles.” You should avoid a bunny that is sick. The inside of your bunny’s ears should be soft and clean, with no ear mites or scabs. His teeth should be clean and straight, not bent into a horn shape. If a bunny’s teeth grow too long or are malformed, he may not be able to properly eat solid foods and might have to have his teeth clipped—a terribly painful procedure that only helps the rabbit for a short amount of time, as the teeth continue to grow. Coat, Belly And BottomOne of the best indications of a rabbit’s overall health is the shape of its coat. It should be shiny, soft and smooth, with no rough patches, bald spots or standing ends. A bunny’s belly should be fat and round, but if it is hard or bloated, it might be sick or pregnant. Unless you are prepared to take care of a litter, avoid purchasing a pregnant bunny. The bunny’s bottom should be clean, as rabbits, like cats, are constant groomers. If you see fecal matter on this bottom or in the fur, the bunny might be suffering from diarrhea. Checking Bunny’s LimbsBecause rabbits are so very fragile, it is extremely easy for them to get fractures or broken bones if dropped or mishandled. Before buying a bunny, watch how it moves across the floor. If you notice that the rabbit seems to be favoring one paw over another, or if it is dragging a leg when it moves, the bunny may have been seriously injured and require expensive medical care. Whether purchasing your rabbit from a breeder or a pet store or adopting it from a private owner or rescue organization, with a little observation and insight, you can choose a healthy bunny that can remain in your family for years to come. Image source: Bigstock.com The post How to Buy a Healthy Rabbit: A Checklist For Choosing a Physically Fit Bunny appeared first on Rabbit Expert. via Blogger How to Buy a Healthy Rabbit: A Checklist For Choosing a Physically Fit Bunny Encephalitozoon cuniculi is otherwise known as e. cuniculi. It is a very small parasite which infects rabbits and other mammals and in some rare instances has also infected humans (with problems affecting their immune system). This disease attacks the central nervous system. How Do Rabbits Catch E. Cuniculi?Most rabbits suffering from e.cuniculi have caught it from their mother whilst in the nest. If a female rabbit has this disease she can pass it onto her babies via contaminated urine. Once a rabbit has been infected for one month, they will start producing spores of the virus, which they can easily pass onto other rabbits. The rabbit ingests contaminated spores (usually in food), and the disease is then absorbed and travels through to the brain and other internal organs. Symptoms of Encaphalitozoon CuniculiNot all rabbits with this disease display symptoms. Many rabbits with e. cuniculi have a normal life However some do display more severe symptoms of the disease. Due to the affects of the disease on the central nervous system, the following symptoms can occur:
Any of these problems could be an indication of e. cuniculi, however they could also be an indication of other problems, therefore veterinary advice should be obtained should any of these symptoms occur. Is There Any Treatment For Encephalitozoon Cuniculi?Possibly, however it is difficult to give a definite diagnosis of the disease. The antibodies of the disease can be detected by a simple blood test. However these tests cannot always tell if the rabbit has had the disease in the past and is now recovered, or if the rabbit currently has the disease. Frequently the disease is diagnosed too late for treatment and fatality occurs. Over the last few year vets in the USA have been treating rabbits with e. cuniculi using fenbendazole or albendazole with good results, however these medications are not yet licensed in the United Kingdom. Even though fenbendazole and albendazole can be effective in killing the e. cuiculi parasite, the affects that they have had on the central nervous system are irreversible. It is thought that weaning baby rabbits from their mother early can reduce the risk of the disease spreading. If a rabbit displays any symptoms which may be an indication of e.cuniculi, please consult a vet immediately. The post Rabbit Diseases: Encephalitozoon Cuniculi appeared first on Rabbit Expert. via Blogger Rabbit Diseases: Encephalitozoon Cuniculi Rabbits can make incredible pets, combining many of the unique traits of other animals. Like dogs, they are playful and loyal, but like cats, they often have an independent streak and require less attention. But what do you feed a rabbit? Which rabbit food to choose? Even though your rabbit is domesticated, its diet should resemble what it would eat if it were in the wild. So that offers a great starting point for launching into our topic! What Do Wild Rabbits Eat?In the wild, the key component of a rabbit’s diet is hay. In fact, it accounts for anywhere from 80%-90% of a wild rabbit’s diet. That means it should account for the vast majority of your domesticated bunny’s diet as well. Why is hay so important? It has a number of vital health benefits for rabbits:
Aside from hay, what do wild rabbits eat and drink? When the weather is warm and food sources are plentiful, rabbits in the wild turn to various grasses, weeds, vegetables, and flowers to fill out the rest of their diets. As these food sources dissipate in the winter, bunnies may consume bark, twigs, and needles from evergreen trees. During the springtime, they also may eat buds while waiting for vegetables to grow and flowers to bloom. What Do Pet Rabbits Eat?For the most part, your pet rabbit’s diet is going to closely resemble that of a wild rabbit. When shopping for rabbit food for sale, you will be looking for hay for rabbits to eat as well as vegetables. But you also will be shopping for pellets and treats. Before getting into the details, it is worth pointing out that baby rabbits have different dietary needs than adult rabbits. So let’s break this section down and look first at what you should be feeding a baby bunny, and then what you should feed a full-grown rabbit. What Do Baby Rabbits Eat?If you want to know how to feed and take care of a baby bunny, that depends in part on whether you are talking about a wild bunny or a domesticated baby rabbit. Say you found a baby rabbit nest, and that nest has clearly been disturbed. Your first thought is probably going to be to move the nest, the babies, or both. You should generally not do this, as the babies probably have not been abandoned. Mother rabbits avoid their nests most of the time so that they will not draw the attention of predators. They return to feed their babies. If a baby is severely injured and/or you have stronger reasons to believe they are truly orphaned, you may feel tempted to take them in. Their care and feeding is quite complex, however, because you have to find a way to replace the protective nutrients in their mother’s milk. For this reason, it is highly advised that you call a local wildlife rehab center and get an expert on the job. What do domesticated baby bunnies eat? Head to your local pet store and shop for either goat milk or kitten milk replacer (KMR). Sometimes a vet will carry these as well. Never go with low-fat! You also should add probiotics to the mix. Note that the exact formula you need will vary from one species to the next, as will the amount you need. Domestic baby bunnies should be fed sitting upright twice a day using a syringe or eyedropper. In theory you can follow these rules with wild babies as well, but again, contacting your local wildlife rehab center is highly advised. How often do you feed a rabbit? Following are basic guidelines for babies. Remember, they can vary from species to species:
With certain species of baby bunnies (with the exception of jackrabbits), you need to also make sure that they are urinating and defecating after eating. This procedure involves using a cotton ball swabbed in warm water. It is a bit beyond the scope of this article, but hopefully it helps you see important it is to do in-depth research before caring for a baby bunny. What Do Adult Rabbits Eat?Now that you know more about what baby bunnies eat, let’s talk about what to feed an adult rabbit.
What Do Pet Rabbits Drink?Do pet rabbits drink water? Yes! In fact, wild rabbits turn to ground sources of water to stay hydrated, so if you serve your bunnies water out of a bowl, that mimics how they would drink in nature. You can purchase water bottles for rabbits, but these are largely used in breeding facilities and the like because they are convenient for staff—not because rabbits enjoy them. Rabbits prefer bowls, so stick with a heavy ceramic bowl (a lightweight plastic dish will “wander” a lot, as rabbits like to move things around). What Rabbits Can’t EatNow that you know what to feed a rabbit, it is also important to talk about foods not to feed rabbits. Here are some examples:
Note that this is not a complete list of all foods bunnies can’t eat—if in doubt, always look up a specific type of food before you feed it to your rabbit (you can check our post about what can rabbits eat). There are many outdoor plants which your bunny should also avoid, some examples being clover, anemone, buttercups, hemlock, ivy, and foxglove. Again, this is not an extensive list, so make sure your yard is safe before you let your bunny go out and munch on your plants. Action Tips
ConclusionThere are many things which can go wrong with a rabbit’s diet, whether we are talking about an adult rabbit or a baby. So make sure that you research the topic in-depth before you attempt to care for a pet rabbit of your own. That way you can ensure that your bunny will stay safe and healthy! The post What Do Rabbits Eat and Drink? appeared first on Rabbit Expert. via Blogger What Do Rabbits Eat and Drink? In a pet food market that is overcrowded with mom and pop brands making an appearance each passing day, Manna Pro has managed to carve a niche of its own. Its small word range of pet food that includes foods for rats, mice, hamsters, gerbils, guinea pigs, rabbits and chinchillas are a favorite among pet parents looking for small sized firm pellets without unwanted mixes and colors. I have personally used their rabbit feed for the rabbits and the chinchilla range for the chinchillas that we rescued and fostered for a while. This is my Manna Pro small word rabbit feed review. Budget Priced Rabbit FoodLiving with six bunnies can be more expensive than what you’d imagine. Along with the dry food, I also have to get them regular share of fresh hay, leafy greens, fruits and veggies. So, when I was asked to foster two rescued bunnies for three to four months, I was on the lookout for budget priced rabbit foods that wouldn’t compromise on the nutritional profile either. After a few hits and misses, I finally narrowed down on the Manna Pro Small World Feed. And immediately, I was very impressed with the ingredient list and the price tag. There’s Wheat Millrun, Sun cured Alfalfa Meal, Soybean hulls (20%), Rice Bran, Soybean Meal, Corn Distiller’s Dried Grains with soluble and a whole laundry list of vitamins and minerals which provide your bunnies with the nutrition that’s lacking in the natural food they eat. Here are the ingredients that I liked. Wheat Millrun: Wheat millrun is the byproduct of milling that’s loaded with fat, fat-soluble vitamins like vitamin A, D, E, K and minerals. The reduced starch content and the fact that it is gluten free, make it an excellent addition to the dry food for rabbits. Also, it has very high fiber content. Alfalfa Meal: Sun cured alfalfa meal adds the much needed protein in the formula. However, the content is kept to a minimum as excessive of alfalfa can cause urinary problems in adult rabbits. Rice bran: A small percentage of rice bran adds some healthy fats to the food which also helps to keep the rabbit’s coat shiny and soft. Not to mention that this improves the taste of the pellets. Vitamin Blend and amino acids: Along with the fat soluble vitamins that I mentioned earlier, the Manno Pro small world rabbit feed also contains a whole range of B vitamins and essential amino acids. That’s about the best nutritional profile in any rabbit food that you’d get for less than $6 for a 10 lbs bag. Don’t get me wrong here. I am not trying to pinch pennies and feed junk to my pets. I’d never do that. But Manna Pro’s pricing for the dry food formula is unbelievable. I have seen many other brands being sold for obscenely high rates having much worse ingredients in it. Do Bunnies Like It?I have been using the Manna Pro Small word rabbit feed with hundreds of bunnies in the foster and rescue center that we head. The bunnies just gorge on it. The pellets are small, soft and chewy and one of the most important aspects is that they are uniform sized. There are no multi-colored pellets that your bunnies can cherry pick. Add this to a regular diet of timothy hay and your bunnies should be able to maintain a healthy weight and have rich and lush looking coats. What is The Right Dosage For my Pet?As always, I recommend that the dry food should only account for approximately 5% of the rabbit’s total diet. The other portions should be evenly split between fresh veggies, green leafies and the likes. Because of the cheap price tag, a lot of pet parents are guilty of going overboard with the Manna Pro Small worlds rabbit feed. Always limit the dose to ¼ cup a day for small sized rabbits and ½ cup a day to larger sized bunnies. A single bag should easily last you for up to 6 months. Why I Like Manna Pro Rabbit Feed
VerdictYou cannot beat the pricing and the formula isn’t bad either. Bunnies love it, parents seem to love it too and it has excellent customer reviews. If you are looking for a dry food formula that doesn’t break the bank, go for the Manna Pro Small word rabbit feed. The post Manna Pro Rabbit Food: Review by The Experts (2017 Updated) appeared first on Rabbit Expert. via Blogger Manna Pro Rabbit Food: Review by The Experts (2017 Updated) In recent times, there has been a lot of hue and cry over the use of GMO grains in animal food products. When it comes to rabbit pellets, a lot of manufacturers are guilty of supplementing their dry pellets with soy and/or grains. While both these ingredients are usually well tolerated in bunnies, they tend to trigger an avalanche of health disorders in some rabbits. The simpler problems are those associated with the gut and fur. Serious problems can be potentially fatal in the long run. So, one of the preventive therapies that vets suggest is to go off any dry rabbit food that contains soy or grains. Sherwood Adult Rabbit Food with its timothy blend is one of the first ones recommended by vets. This simple but nutritionally dense dry food formula contains ingredients that are considered to be a natural part of the rabbit’s diet. Natural Timothy Hay Based FormulaThe primary ingredient is Timothy Hay. While you may already be feeding your rabbit fresh hay, a timothy hay based dry pellet is higher in fiber content which helps to regulate your bunny’s eating habits. Further, the rabbit food also contains flax seed which is equally fiber dense. But the perks of flaxseed go beyond the fiber content. It is rich in Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids which are immensely beneficial for the rabbit’s coat and cardiovascular health. Sherwood’s adult rabbit food also helps prevent dental disease which is common in rabbits that are fed cheap dry food formulas due to the excessive amounts of protein, undigested starch and an imbalance in calcium and other vital nutrients. Here are a few benefits of this formula that I have experienced firsthand with my rabbits.
Do Bunnies Like This?If your bunny is used to eating junk dry food then they may be reluctant to switch over to the Sherwood adult rabbit food because it is a lot healthier and does not contain flavors or preservatives. So, you will have to spend some time transitioning the rabbit to the new food. Be rest assured, that once the rabbit gets used to this food, they won’t be eating anything else. What is The Right Dosage For my Rabbit?The dosage for your rabbit depends on the amount of natural hay that you feed them. Ideally, you should feed your rabbit at least 50% of their body weight in natural hay. If that is not the case, then you can feed them 1 cup of the Sherwood Adult Rabbit Food every day. On the other hand, if your rabbit gets their share of hay, then you can feed them ¼ or ½ a cup of the Sherwood rabbit food every day. Why I Like Sherwood Adult Rabbit Food – Timothy Blend (Grain & Soy-Free)
VerdictAs one of the only dry food formulas without GMO grains and soy, the Sherwood Adult Rabbit Food is a must buy if your bunny is experiencing any of the health conditions that I have mentioned here. The post Sherwood Adult Rabbit Food: Ingredients, Review & Ratings (New For 2017) appeared first on Rabbit Expert. via Blogger Sherwood Adult Rabbit Food: Ingredients, Review & Ratings (New For 2017) Kaytee’s rabbit foods are quite popular among both bunnies and bunny parents. Given that bunny parents don’t eat the pellets themselves, it’s obvious that they like the food because it’s healthy and their pets love it. This is the Kaytee Rabbit Food Supreme which is also called the Fortified Daily blend and is one of the most popular products in their range. It is a blend of pellets in a variety of shapes and colors and contains a healthy mix of nutritional ingredients that cater to rabbits of all ages. But since the pellets are not uniform and they are of different colors too, pet parents who are new to the food are skeptical wondering if it’s artificially colored or if the rabbits will eat it easily. Here’s my Kaytee Supreme Rabbit food review that also contains my experience feeding this to two of my bunnies. The Natural Grain Based FoodOne of the first and most notable differences among the Kaytee fortified daily blend and other dry foods is the ingredients. This is not a hay (timothy or alfalfa) based food. Instead, it is sourced and pelleted from a range of natural grains and seeds. This gives it a slightly crunchier texture as opposed to other foods. But that’s precisely what works in its favor because rabbits take an instant liking to the pellets. But that does not mean that the food does not contain alfalfa. It is rich in proteins, carbohydrates, fats and vitamins. The primary source of protein in the food is alfalfa which makes it perfect even for young growing bunnies as well as aged pets who have suffered a lot of weight loss. Wheat middlings are used as the carbohydrate source and this also doubles up as the dietary fiber that aids in digestion and prevents a sluggish bowel movement. Rabbits have very sensitive tummies and you’d want to know that this contains Tocopherols, which are preservatives. They are well tolerated though and there are zero instances of this food not agreeing with a rabbit’s digestive system. Along with the vitamin blend that is typically found in dry rabbit foods, the Kaytee Supreme Rabbit food also contains a healthy blend of Omega 3 acids which help in improving the quality of the rabbit’s coat. One of the best ingredients in the fortified daily blend that helps prevent fur-fall is Biotin. If your rabbit is experiencing constant skin/fur problems, then try switching over to the Kaytee Supreme rabbit food. Do Bunnies Like This?I switched over to the Kaytee Supreme food after my vet recommended it for Chloe, my five year old bunny who had developed severe flaking and patchy fur loss. I had to transition gradually from Chloe’s timothy hay based dry food and it did take some effort. But it was completely worth it because Chloe’s fur woes disappeared in the span of just three weeks. And since then, he’d not touch any other dry food except this one. I have also tried to introduce a young rabbit to the Kaytee supreme and she took an instant liking to it. Along with my personal experiences, there are ample customer reviews that also state that their bunnies love this dry food. So, you shouldn’t have any problem with bunnies refusing to touch this. It has a very fresh aroma and most bunnies will dart towards their food bowls in no time. What is The Right Amount to Feed Your Pet?That depends on a lot of factors. The most important one is how much fresh food your rabbit eats. Along with the dry food, your rabbit also needs unlimited access to their favorite hay along with a variety of leafy green veggies and fruits. If the fresh ingredients in the diet are being given every day, then you can add ½ cup of the Kaytee Supreme to their diet for a small rabbit breed like a mini lop. If you have a large rabbit breed, then you can up that to 1 cup at least. Please keep in mind that any dry food should not be more than 5% of the rabbit’s diet. Why I Like The Kaytee Supreme Rabbit Food
VerdictThe Kaytee Supreme food is a great choice of a grain based dry food. It has an excellent nutritional profile and easy-to-chew pellets that are much loved by bunnies of all ages. The post Kaytee Rabbit Food: Detailed Review by The Rabbit Expert (2017 Edition) appeared first on Rabbit Expert. via Blogger Kaytee Rabbit Food: Detailed Review by The Rabbit Expert (2017 Edition) |
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