As a loving bunny owner, you want to make sure your bunny receives the care they need to live a long and healthy life. In this blog, our Greeley vets share how often you should be taking your rabbit to the vet and the importance of routine exams.
When should I take my rabbit to the vet?
Bunnies generally have a lifespan of up to ten years, and during that time, while they should be generally healthy, odds are they will need to visit the vet at least once. The only potential problem is your bunny can't go see a regular dog or cat vet, your rabbit will need to see a vet who specializes in small or exotic animals, and our Greeley vets can help.
Rabbits have constantly growing teeth and they need to be trimmed periodically by a vet. Bunnies also react differently to medications such as antibiotics, so it takes a specialist to know what drugs are safe to take and when they are appropriate.
Additionally, pet rabbits should see a vet for vaccinations, and for spay/neuter operation.
Signs Your Rabbit Needs Veterinary Care;
- Stops eating and pooping
- Panting with their mouth open
- Drooling. or Sneezing
- Limping
- Becomes very lethargic
- Diarrhea
- Head tilts to the side or is upside down
How often do they need to go?
There is no set time frame to see the vet like other pets, but bunnies who are healthy only need to be brought to the vet for a checkup once a year.
If your bunny is elderly or has health problems, you should bring them to the vet every six months. And, of course, if you notice any signs of illness in your bunny, it’s important to make an appointment as soon as possible.
How to prepare for a vet visit?
If your bunny is feeling sick or unwell, write down all their symptoms to take with you; this will help your vet determine the root of the issue. Then, you will need to call and book your appointment.
Some appointments, such as diagnostic tests and surgery, will require you to collect a urine sample on the morning of the appointment. But everything you need to know or do on the day of your appointment will be discussed with you when you book your appointment.
There are things you may need to bring with you to the appointment. To make sure your bunny is comfortable you will want to make sure you have their carrying crate, blanket/toys, and treats they may want after the appointment. You will also want to bring/write down any medications your bunny may be taking.
What procedures and vaccines do bunnies need?
When you take your bunny to the vet they will want to check your rabbit’s teeth to make sure they aren’t growing too long and are not infected. The vet will also make sure your rabbit is a healthy weight, check their breathing and heart rates, and make sure their ears and eyes look healthy.
A checkup will give your vet a baseline of your rabbit’s health so that they are familiar with your bunny so they can deal with any situation if your rabbit ever does need to be brought in because they are not feeling well.
When you first get your bunny, you need to know what vaccines your bunny is going to need throughout their lives to maintain its health. While no vaccines are mandatory to have a bunny, there are a few vaccines they will require to protect against myxomatosis, Rabbit (Viral) Haemorrhagic Disease (R(V)HD), and a strain of R(V)HD - R(V)HD2 - all of which are fatal.
Pet rabbits should also be spayed or neutered. Not only does this prevent unwanted bunnies, but can prevent life-threatening illnesses and overall lead to a longer, happier life. Both male and female bunnies can undergo this surgery when they are as young as three to six months old.
How much does a vet visit cost for a rabbit?
Costs of medical care for your bunny will vary depending on your location, the size of your rabbit, and what needs to be done. Contact your vet for more specific pricing.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.