Rabbit Health & Wellness

Your rabbit’s health is built on more than good food and shelter — it’s about consistent care, observation, and trust. Rabbits are masters at hiding discomfort, so small details often tell the biggest stories. With the right routines, you’ll easily spot what’s normal, what’s not, and how to keep your bunny thriving.

The Basics of Rabbit Health

A healthy rabbit is bright-eyed, curious, alert, and active. Their fur should be smooth and glossy, droppings round and consistent, and appetite steady every day.

Healthy Signs

Bright, clear eyes
Steady appetite and constant hay nibbling
Normal, round droppings
Smooth breathing and even movement
Curious, playful behavior

Tip: You’ll learn your rabbit’s “normal” over time — that’s your best tool for noticing change early.

Regular Health Checks

Do a quick head-to-tail check at least once a week. It helps you catch small problems early and keeps your rabbit comfortable with gentle handling.

What to Check

Eyes, ears, and nose: clear and clean, no discharge
Teeth: not overgrown, no drooling or wet chin
Fur & skin: free of mats, bald spots, or flakes
Feet: clean, with healthy fur and nails trimmed
Droppings: consistent size and shape

Tip: Keep a small notebook or app to track weight, nail trims, and health notes — tiny changes can add up to big insights.

Common Rabbit Health Issues

Even with excellent care, some concerns can arise. Knowing what to look for helps you act fast and keep stress low.

Common Issues to Watch For

GI Stasis: loss of appetite or poop; emergency if untreated
Dental Overgrowth: drooling, picky eating, weight loss
Ear Mites: head shaking, scratching, dark debris in ears
Respiratory Issues: sneezing, nasal discharge, noisy breathing
Parasites or Flystrike (outdoors): itching, visible insects, or fur loss

Tip: Trust your instincts — if something feels “off,” it’s always worth calling your vet.

Vet Care and Prevention

Routine care keeps your bunny healthy and builds trust with a rabbit-savvy veterinarian.

Routine Vet Care

Annual exams for all rabbits
Vaccinations where available (ask your vet about RHDV and Pasteurella options)
Spay/neuter to prevent behavioral and reproductive issues
Dental checks — rabbits’ teeth grow continuously

Tip: Keep your rabbit’s carrier ready to go and line it with a towel or hay for calm, stress-free vet visits.

Grooming & Nail Care

Regular grooming keeps your rabbit clean, comfortable, and tangle-free.

Basics

Brushing: weekly for short coats; every few days for long-haired breeds
Nail trims: every 4–6 weeks
Spot cleaning: use a damp cloth, never full baths

Tip: Use grooming time as bonding time — gentle strokes and treats make it positive.

Stress Behavior & Mental Health

Rabbits are emotional, social animals. Stress can impact their immune system and appetite, so peace and consistency are key.

Reduce Stress By

Keeping a steady routine
Avoiding loud noises and sudden changes
Giving plenty of hiding spots and quiet rest areas
Offering daily enrichment and free-roam time

Tip: A relaxed rabbit will loaf, stretch out, and tooth-purr softly — signs of total contentment.

Aging & Senior Rabbit Care

Older rabbits need a little extra care and observation, but with the right attention, they can stay active and happy for years.

Senior Care Tips

Keep their space warm, soft, and easy to move around in
Offer lower-entry litter boxes and hideouts
Monitor weight, teeth, and droppings closely
Add joint-friendly flooring and gentle handling

Tip: Older rabbits still love enrichment — gentle foraging, brushing, and time with you keep their spirits bright.

Bringing it all together

Rabbit wellness is about connection. The more time you spend observing, grooming, and caring for your bunny, the more you’ll notice — and the faster you’ll catch even the smallest changes. A balanced diet, clean environment, regular vet care, and daily love are the true foundations of lifelong health.

Next up: Rabbit Behavior & Bonding — understanding your bunny’s language and building trust that lasts.

Rabbit Behavior & Bonding

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