🐇 1. Regular Vet Checkups
- Rabbits should visit a rabbit-savvy veterinarian at least once a year for a full health exam.
- The vet checks teeth, eyes, ears, heart, lungs, and weight.
- Annual visits help detect early signs of diseases like dental problems or parasites.
- Older rabbits (over 5 years) may need checkups twice a year.
💉 2. Vaccinations
(Note: depends on country/region — some diseases may not be present everywhere)
- In many countries, rabbits are vaccinated against:
- Myxomatosis
- Rabbit Hemorrhagic Disease (RHD / VHD)
- Annual booster shots keep immunity strong.
- Always consult your vet for local vaccination requirements.
🍎 3. Proper Diet = Good Health
- Main diet: 80–90% fresh hay (Timothy, Orchard grass, or Meadow hay).
- Add fresh vegetables daily (e.g., romaine lettuce, parsley, carrot tops).
- Give a small amount of pellets (high fiber, low protein).
- Avoid sugary foods like too many fruits, and never give chocolate, bread, or junk food.
- Clean fresh water should always be available.
🦷 4. Dental Health
- Rabbit teeth grow continuously, so they must chew hay and safe wooden toys.
- Overgrown teeth can cause:
- Drooling
- Loss of appetite
- Face swelling
- Regular vet dental checks and a high-fiber diet prevent dental problems.
💩 5. Gastrointestinal (GI) Health
- Rabbits need constant gut movement — if they stop eating or pooping, it’s an emergency!
- Signs of GI stasis (a deadly condition):
- Not eating or drinking
- Small or no droppings
- Lethargy
- Take your rabbit to the vet immediately if these symptoms appear.
- Prevention: plenty of hay, water, and exercise.
🧼 6. Parasite Control
- Check regularly for:
- Fleas, mites, lice, and worms
- Use rabbit-safe parasite treatments (never cat/dog products — they can be toxic).
- Keep living areas clean and dry.
🩺 7. Spaying & Neutering
- Recommended for both males and females:
- Females: prevents uterine cancer (common in unspayed does).
- Males: reduces aggression and marking.
- Also helps with bonding and calmer behavior.
🧠 8. Signs of Illness
Watch for these early warning signs:
- Loss of appetite
- Hiding or less active
- Diarrhea or no poop
- Runny nose or eyes
- Head tilt
- Difficulty breathing
➡️ Visit a vet immediately if any appear.
💧 9. Environment & Stress
- Keep rabbits in a calm, clean, and cool environment.
- Avoid loud noises, overheating, or sudden changes.
- Provide a safe space where they feel secure.
- Stress can weaken their immune system and lead to illness.
⏱️ 10. Emergency Care
- Have a rabbit first aid kit (gauze, antiseptic, syringe for feeding water, etc.).
- Keep your vet’s contact number handy.
- Never delay treatment — rabbits deteriorate quickly if sick.
❤️ Summary
| Health Area | Key Tip |
|---|---|
| Vet Visits | Once or twice a year |
| Vaccinations | Annual (depending on region) |
| Diet | 80–90% hay, daily greens |
| Dental | Regular checks, chewing toys |
| GI Health | Never stop eating/pooping |
| Parasites | Use rabbit-safe treatments |
| Spay/Neuter | Prevents cancer & behavior issues |
| Signs of Illness | Act quickly, don’t wait |
| Environment | Calm, clean, safe space |
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