Protect your rabbit this spring with Edgewood Vets
March 14, 2018
Now that spring is on its way and your rabbit is likely to be spending more time outside, you may be concerned about keeping them safe and well.
As well as ensuring your bunny is protected against common illnesses such as Myxomatosis (myxo) and viral haemorrhagic disease (VHD), you need to bear in mind that they might overheat or suffer from fleas or flystrike as the weather warms.
Read on for Edgewood Vet’s top tips to prevent these common seasonal problems – and don’t forget to contact us to book your pet’s annual vaccination.
Book your rabbit’s vaccination
1. Overheating
If your pet is lethargic, unsettled or distressed it may be suffering from heat stroke. In warm weather rabbits can retain too much heat with their thick fur coat, especially if the atmosphere is humid as well.
Cool off
Keep occupied rabbit hutches out of the sun and make sure your pet always has enough water. If you suspect your bunny is overheating, move it to a cooler area out of the sun, perhaps with a bowl of melting ice-cubes nearby.
If your rabbit gets very distressed, don’t hesitate to call us on 01621 828381 or bring them in to see us in Purleigh.
2. Deadly insects
Rabbit fleas can help spread fatal myxomatosis. As summer approaches and the flea lifecycles speed up, it’s important you groom your rabbit regularly. Make sure you check for fleas around your bunny’s head, neck and ears.
It’s a good idea to get your rabbit vaccinated against myxomatosis. Contact us to book a vaccination.
We may also recommend a rabbit flea treatment. Drop by and we’ll be happy to show you how to apply.
3. Flystrike
When flies lay eggs on an injured or dirty rabbit, the resulting infestation of maggots can be fatal. This is very common. If your pet is overweight, prone to diarrhoea or bladder infections, or has bad teeth, they may have trouble keeping themselves clean of the urine and faeces that attract egg-laying flies.
A diet containing enough fibre will help prevent flystrike.
If you want to discuss any of these conditions, call us on 01621 828381 and one of our vets or nurses will be happy to give you help or advice.
