Calum answers your Rabbit FAQs

If you’re new to rabbit care or just love a good knowledge refresh from time to time, we’ve got the perfect article for you! We tasked our vet Calum with answering commonly asked questions about rabbits, ranging from feeding requirements to litter training, and cleaning tips to health concerns.

If, after reading our article you have any questions or would like to register your furry friend with our Denny vet practice, we’re here to help.

Rabbit FAQs

1. What should I feed my rabbit?

Calum says: Rabbits should primarily be fed a diet of fresh hay, such as Timothy hay, along with a variety of fresh vegetables, and a small amount of high-quality rabbit pellets. Avoid feeding too many treats or sugary foods, as these can lead to digestive issues. When it comes to fresh veggies, Calum suggests trying your rabbit on carrot tops, cauliflower, rocket, celery and kale for starters.

2. How much hay should my rabbit eat each day?

Calum says: Rabbits should always have unlimited access to hay. Hay is essential for their digestive health and helps wear down their teeth, which continuously grow throughout their lives.

3. How often should I clean my rabbit’s cage?

Calum says: Rabbit cages should be spot cleaned daily to remove any soiled bedding and waste. A thorough cleaning of the entire cage, including changing the bedding, should be done at least once a week. It can help to keep some old bedding to keep your rabbits smell in their home.

4. Is it necessary to spay or neuter my rabbit?

Calum says: Neutering rabbits (also called rabbit spaying if female) is highly recommended, especially for females, to prevent reproductive health issues such as uterine cancer and unwanted pregnancies. Neutering can also help to reduce aggressive behaviour in male rabbits – talk to us about rabbit neutering.

5. How can I tell if my rabbit is sick?

Calum says: Signs of illness in rabbits include a loss of appetite, lethargy, diarrhoea, changes in behaviour, difficulty breathing, and discharge from the eyes or nose. If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s essential to seek veterinary care promptly – call us on 01324 829 989.

6. What are some common health problems in rabbits?

Calum says: Common health problems in rabbits include dental issues such as overgrown teeth, respiratory infections, and gastrointestinal stasis (GI stasis) – a potentially life-threatening condition where the digestive system slows down or stops – call us on 01324 829 989.

7. How can I help keep my rabbit’s teeth healthy?

Calum says: Providing your rabbit with plenty of hay to chew on is essential for maintaining healthy teeth. Additionally, providing safe chew toys and regular veterinary check-ups can help prevent dental problems.

8. Can rabbits be litter trained?

Calum says: Yes, rabbits can be litter trained. Start by placing a litter box filled with rabbit-safe litter in the corner of their hutch or designated living area. Encourage your rabbit to use the litter box by placing some of their droppings in it.

9. How much exercise does my rabbit need?

Calum says: Rabbits should have access to at least a few hours of supervised exercise outside of their hutch each day. This can include hopping around a rabbit-proofed room or playing in a secure outdoor enclosure.

10. How can I help prevent flystrike in my rabbit?

Calum says: To prevent flystrike, it’s essential to keep your rabbit’s living area clean and dry, check their bottom regularly for any signs of soiling, and provide plenty of shade and protection from flies during hot weather. Additionally, consider using flyscreens or netting to keep flies away from your rabbit. Remember, all the preventative treatment that your rabbit needs are included in our Healthy Pets Club plan! Are you up to date with your F10 spray for your rabbit?

We hope you found our list of Rabbit FAQs helpful. Remember, we’re here to help if you would like any further advice.