Your rabbit’s health
The health of your rabbit
Rabbits are prey animals, so they rarely show when something is wrong. A healthy rabbit is active, eats throughout much of the day, and produces plenty of droppings. Because signs of illness can be very subtle, any rabbit that is sitting still, eating less, or producing fewer droppings should be considered potentially unwell. It is important to call us immediately rather than wait. We examine your rabbit from head to tail and intervene where necessary. The sooner we can help, the less invasive the treatment usually needs to be.
Common health issues in rabbits
- Dental problems
- Gastrointestinal problems
- Respiratory problems
- Urinary tract problems
How can I keep my rabbit healthy?
Prevention is always better than cure, and there are several things you can do at home to keep your rabbit as healthy as possible.
| Balanced diet | Contrary to popular belief, rabbits only need a small amount of pellets. The rule of thumb is: 80% hay, 15% vegetables/herbs, and 5% pellets (about 20 grams of pellets per kg of body weight per day). It’s best to provide unblended pellets, such as Science Selective rabbit food. |
| Fresh and plenty of water | Always make sure your rabbit has access to fresh and sufficient water. For rabbits with urinary issues, it’s useful to check the water hardness, as too much calcium can lead to bladder stones. If your rabbit lives outdoors and it’s freezing, refresh the water more frequently. |
| Clean, dust-free, and spacious enclosure | The enclosure for one rabbit should be at least 150 x 80 cm, provided your rabbit can spend most of the day roaming freely; otherwise, a larger space is recommended. Avoid using wood shavings as bedding; use straw, flax, or hemp instead. Add an extra layer of absorbent granules in the litter tray. |
| No chew or mineral blocks | Never give your rabbit a chew or mineral block! These blocks contain high levels of calcium and can cause urinary problems. |
| Protecting your rabbit from flies | During the summer, make sure to implement effective fly control to prevent flystrike and the spread of infections. |
| Vaccination | Have your rabbit vaccinated according to the recommended schedule to protect against serious diseases. |
Did you know we have multiple locations?
In the Haarlem and Amsterdam regions, our experienced team is ready to care for you and your pet. Feel free to drop by if you’d like to meet us!
