Rabbit Welfare Needs and Common Health Issues to Look Out for.

Rabbits are affectionate, fun, and curious pets to have, and for many pet parents they can be the perfect first pet for families. However, rabbits aren’t just for cuddling, and to help pet parents understand rabbits a little more, small pet experts Burgess created Rabbit Awareness week.

Rabbit Awareness Week is an annual campaign to educate pet owners on the unique needs of rabbits, and as part of their campaign, we’ve popped together a quick guide on their welfare needs and common health problems to look out for when welcoming a rabbit into the family.

Flystrike

Flystrike happens mainly during the warmer months, and this happens when flies lay eggs on a rabbit. They then hatch into maggots and eat the flesh of your rabbit.

Flystrike can also be a sign of underlying health issues in some rabbits, so it’s important to ensure you visit the vet if your rabbit has a case of flystrike. You can also read our blog on how to prevent and treat flystrike in rabbits to help prepare you for the summer.

Gut Stasis

Gut Stasis is where your rabbit’s digestive system slows down or stop altogether. This can be linked to selective feeding, so always ensure your rabbit food has all the relevant nutrients, as well as having plenty of hay available for them to munch on!

Myxomatosis/VHD

Your rabbit should be vaccinated against myxomatosis as soon as possible, as this is a life-threatening disease.

Looking for more rabbit advice? Speak to our pet experts on what you need to keep your rabbits healthy and happy.