8 Conditions That Affect Pet Rabbits: Key Signs & Care

Rabbits make wonderful family pets, living happily both indoors as house rabbits or outdoors in hutches. Their popularity has grown significantly, with many people appreciating not only their companionship but also the special care rabbits require to stay healthy and happy. Responsible ownership involves understanding common health concerns so you can provide the best for your pet.

In this guide, we explore eight conditions that can affect pet rabbits. Recognising early symptoms ensures your rabbit receives timely veterinary treatment, improving their chance of recovery and wellbeing.

1. Mucoid Enteritis

This condition mainly affects young rabbits aged 7 to 14 weeks but can occasionally appear in adults. It is often triggered by stress and poor diet, particularly lacking fibre. Key signs include:

• Diarrhoea coated in sticky mucus
• Weight loss

Mucoid enteritis is serious and potentially fatal if untreated. Avoid stress and maintain excellent hygiene in your rabbit's environment. If symptoms appear, seek veterinary care immediately for hydration and treatment.

2. Sore Hocks

Sore hocks cause significant discomfort, usually affecting the back feet though front feet can also suffer. Causes include standing on wire flooring, obesity, or overgrown nails. Signs include:

• Rabbits tiptoeing or avoiding pressure on feet
• Cracked, inflamed, or bleeding footpads

Prevent sore hocks by providing solid, clean bedding or matting and keeping nails trimmed. Veterinary treatment with antiseptic ointments may be needed if infection occurs.

3. Snuffles (Respiratory Infection)

Snuffles results from bacterial respiratory infection and spreads easily between rabbits through sneezing. Signs include:

• Thick, creamy discharge from eyes and nose
• Matted fur on front paws from nose wiping

Your vet can prescribe appropriate antibiotics, but relapses are common, especially under stress. Keep housing clean and isolate infected rabbits to prevent spread.

4. Wry Neck

Wry neck is a neurological condition where rabbits tilt or roll their head, often causing disorientation and lack of coordination. Symptoms to watch for:

• Lethargy
• Head shaking
• Hearing loss

Immediate veterinary diagnosis is essential, often requiring antibiotics. Recovery can be slow and incomplete, so early care helps improve outcomes.

5. Bladder Sludge & Stones

Poor diet low in fibre can lead to urinary problems such as sludge and bladder stones. Indicators include:

• Thick or sludgy urine
• Weight loss and depression

Your vet may surgically remove stones. Prevention focuses on a balanced diet rich in roughage, low in protein, and adequate calcium for dental and bone health.

6. Bloat

Bloat is a sudden, painful build-up of gas in the stomach and is life-threatening within 24 hours. Signs include:

• Firm, swollen abdomen
• Lethargy or depression
• Audible stomach gurgling

Urgent veterinary treatment is required. To reduce risk, provide a fibre-rich diet and avoid sudden diet changes.

7. Ear Mites

Rabbits with ear mites continuously shake and scratch their ears. Look for:

• Brown, crusty wax in ear canals
• Red, inflamed ear tissue

Ear mites are contagious; check new rabbits carefully before introduction. Your vet can prescribe effective treatments. Gentle cleaning with olive oil can soothe irritation but must be done cautiously to prevent injury.

8. Gastro-Intestinal Stasis (GI Stasis)

GI stasis occurs when digestion slows drastically, often from a poor diet or stress. Symptoms include:

• Small or no faecal pellets
• Loud stomach gurgling
• Reluctance to move and loss of appetite

Prevention involves feeding a fibre-rich diet, providing fresh greens and clean water, and ensuring daily exercise in a secure space. If you notice signs, visit the vet immediately for diagnosis and treatment.

Understanding these common rabbit health conditions empowers owners to provide attentive care and seek prompt veterinary help when needed. Always source rabbits from reputable breeders and maintain regular vet check-ups to enjoy many happy years with your pet.

For those interested in adopting or buying a rabbit, consider browsing reputable rabbit breeders to find a healthy companion.