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Eyes
Your rabbit’s eyes should be bright and clear. Any discharge or dullness could indicate a problem. Discharge can be because your rabbit has managed to scratch it’s eye, cloudy eyes could indicate a problem with its teeth. Either way, if you notice that your rabbit has an eye related problem, you should check it out with the vet.
Feet
There shouldn’t be any lumps between your rabbit’s digits, and their feet should be free of any cuts or swelling. Also, the fur on the bottom of their feet should be free from matting.
Nose
Rabbits will twitch their nose constantly, this is fine and indicates a healthy rabbit. If you do, however, notice any sort of discharge from the nose, it could be a sign that something is wrong.
This Flemish Giant rabbit is in great shape
Teeth
Rabbit teeth should not be overgrown, chipped or broken. Both the top and bottom teeth should be identical in size to the ones directly next to it.
Rear End
You should regularly check your rabbit for any dirt on the fur. Dirt can be a sign that the rabbit’s diet is too rich and they consequently don’t need to eat the caecotrophs that they produce. There are a variety of reasons for why a rabbit can develop a dirty rear end. Your vet will be the best person to talk to if you have any serious concerns. It is especially important to keep them clean during the summer, as during this time of year flies may lay their eggs in the feces, these eggs will then hatch into maggots and cause a condition known as flystrike, which can be fatal.
Eating and Drinking
It is important to check that all of your rabbits are eating and drinking as they normally would. A loss in appetite can indicate a health problem.
Coat
A rabbit’s coat should be clean and free of dirt. There should be no dandruff, white matter or brown material as well as no bald patches or things moving in the coat.
Body
The stomach should not be swollen or distended. Your rabbit should be completely free of any scratches, bruises or lumps. Their legs should be strong and not twisted and their gait should be smooth and not rigid.
Ears
A rabbit’s ears need to be free of wounds, lumps or excess wax. Discharge and brown or white material also indicate a problem.
Comments
Bee, 3 April 2020
This article is helpful, though please do not recomend the vet merely because you do not know what to do. Going to the vet is a waste of money and time. I own a rabbitry (Bee's Beautiful Bunnies) and have never once taken any of my rabbits to the vet. If you would like information on how to cure your rabbit naturally, please contact me at: beesbeautifulbunnies@gmail.com !
Fionnuala, 31 December 2011
There needs to be more detail in all paragraphs and tell to you how to help the rabbit if you cant get it to the vet.
Carrie, 24 August 2011
Reviewing your article for evidence in my college work, Fantastic work - keep it up.