How To Care For a Sick Rabbit Before the Vet Visit

When your pet rabbit is unwell, quick, calm action can make all the difference before you reach a vet. Rabbits are prey animals and often mask illnesses, so recognising symptoms early and providing supportive care is crucial for their recovery. This guide shares what to do if your rabbit falls sick or suffers an injury, alongside key tips to keep them comfortable and safe.

1. Immediate First Aid for Injuries

Should your rabbit have any injuries like a bleeding paw or bite, the most important step is to control bleeding without causing further pain. Wrap the wound gently with a clean, dry towel and apply steady pressure to stop bleeding. Avoid using cotton wool near sensitive areas like the eyes as fibres can cause irritation. Always keep wounds clean, and clean the rabbit's environment thoroughly to reduce infection risk.

2. Suspecting a Broken Bone

If you notice limping, swelling, or unusual posture in your rabbit, a broken bone might be the cause. Immobilise the rabbit gently and seek veterinary care urgently, as untreated fractures can worsen. Handle your rabbit softly and minimise movement to avoid extra pain or injury.

3. Handling Eye Injuries

Eye injuries must be treated cautiously. Use lukewarm water and a lint-free cloth to carefully clean away discharge or debris. Do not apply any medications at home without veterinary advice. Prompt professional examination is essential to prevent lasting damage.

4. When Your Rabbit Stops Eating

A loss of appetite in rabbits is serious and can indicate dental problems, digestive issues, or other illnesses. Rabbits have very delicate digestive systems; even slight disruptions can become life-threatening. Monitor food and water intake closely and seek veterinary diagnosis and treatment immediately if your rabbit ceases eating or drinking.

5. Recognising Head Tilt (Torticollis)

If your rabbit is tilting its head unusually or seems disoriented, this is a sign of a neurological problem, such as ear infections, stroke, or other conditions. Make the environment safe and padded to prevent injury and arrange urgent veterinary assessment to determine the cause and receive appropriate treatment.

6. Identifying Diarrhoea and Dehydration

Watery, brown discharge or diarrhoea can quickly dehydrate rabbits and lead to critical illness. If you suspect diarrhoea, do not delay in arranging veterinary care. If you are trained, gentle administration of fluids can help, but professional treatment is often necessary to resolve the underlying issue.

7. Treating Rabbit Bites

Bites should be cleaned immediately with a vet-prescribed antiseptic cream. Keep the wound clean and monitor for signs of infection, such as swelling or redness. If infection signs appear or the wound is deep, seek veterinary treatment promptly.

8. Managing Heatstroke in Rabbits

Rabbits are prone to overheating, especially in warm weather. If your rabbit becomes prostrate or shows signs of heatstroke, cool their ears with cool (not cold) compresses carefully, avoiding dropping their temperature too low. Veterinary care should be sought immediately as heatstroke can be fatal if untreated.

9. Preparing for the Vet Visit

Keep a record of symptoms and any treatments you’ve administered to inform your vet. Prepare a secure carrier with familiar bedding to reduce stress during travel. Confirm beforehand that your local vet is experienced with rabbits, as not all surgeries treat them. Hygiene is essential; always wash your hands before and after handling your rabbit to prevent disease transmission.

10. Important Tips for Responsible Rabbit Ownership

Rabbits require regular mental and physical stimulation, clean living environments, and attentive health monitoring. Never leave them alone for long periods, and ensure prompt veterinary care at the first signs of illness to prevent deterioration. Before adopting or purchasing a rabbit, verify the breeder or rescue’s ethical standards and that you have access to a knowledgeable vet.

Ultimately, a sick rabbit needs calm, attentive care and prompt professional intervention to ensure the best chance of recovery. Familiarising yourself with these steps helps keep your beloved pet safe until expert treatment is possible.