A dental check could be a lifesaver for your rabbit
April 21, 2019
Lifesaving dental advice for rabbits from Edgewood Veterinary Group
Many of the health problems we see in rabbits at Edgewood Vets originate from dental problems, which is why it’s so important to keep a close eye on your pet’s teeth.
To help you out, this month we’re offering all our clients a nurse dental check, so we can give your rabbit an oral once-over.
Key facts about rabbit dental problems
A sick rabbit with dental problems may seem dull, hunched and generally disinterested. Most dental problems in rabbits are linked to lack of normal wear of the teeth because rabbit foods are often too low in fibre. This causes uneven tooth wear and produces sharp enamel points, known as spurs.
This can often be corrected by simply changing your rabbit’s diet to a more natural, high-fibre diet one, such grass and hay. If your rabbit does have significantly elongated teeth then they will need trimming – but you should never be tempted to clip teeth or trim them yourself.
Signs of rabbit dental disease include:
- Your rabbit stops eating
- Weight loss develops
- Swelling of the jaw, particularly noticeable along the lower edge of the mandible
- Excessive salivation and drooling
- An inability to fully close the mouth
- Watery eye with matting of the hair in the corner
- Swollen appearance of the eye caused by infections behind the eyeball
Edgewood Vets’ dietary suggestions for rabbits
Don’t feed muesli-style diets as these will cause long-term problems – a high-fibre diet is essential. You should not allow your rabbit to be a selective feeder and, of course, only buy quality products if you can.
If you live in Purleigh and need some help, please don’t hesitate to call us, Nicola and the team are always happy to help.
