Rabbits
Rabbits are ideal companions if you don’t have a big garden. They enjoy living indoors and can be toilet trained. They are social and playful and will enjoy your company and attention.
Essentials:
De-sex your rabbit to prevent unwanted breeding, prevent reproductive disease, and reduce the likelihood of aggressive territorial behaviour.
Microchip your rabbit in case he gets lost.
Rabbits should be vaccinated against calicivirus disease annually.
Give your rabbit:
- a constant supply of hay
- daily greens
- 3 tablespoons a day of treats like carrot, apple (no core or seeds), banana and peel, or pellet mix
- fresh water daily in a bowl or sipper bottle
- safe secure housing to prevent escapes or attacks from dogs and cats
- litter trays indoors
Groom your rabbit weekly if she has short hair, and daily if she has long hair. Ask at reception about the right grooming brushes. Grooming helps stop your rabbit from getting hairballs.
Health checks:
Twice a year bring your rabbit in for a check up to make sure his teeth are growing normally, and that his eyes, skin, nails, ears and coat are in good condition. Dr. Boersma can show you how to clip your rabbit’s nails properly.
Ask how to protect your rabbit from parasites like worms and fleas, and from diseases like calicivirus and myxomatosis which are fatal.
Emergency:
If you think your rabbit is sick, call us straight away. Signs of sickness include watery eyes, a runny nose, wheezing, diarrhea, weight loss or not eating. Your rabbit will hide signs of sickness, so by the time you notice he is unwell, he may need urgent attention.
Here is some good advice on rabbit care:
