How to spot a sick rabbit
Sadly many rabbits are found dead by their owners simply because they've been stuck in a hutch making it impossible for the owner to see any natural behaviour therefore unable to see any changes due to illness. Prey animals frustratingly hide signs of illness due to survival instinct as they rather die peacefully than be found by a predator and not be strong enough to run away.
For instance rabbits are quiet when ill unlike the cat or dog. They can make various vocal communications, but this is mainly seen in the most trusting, confident rabbits, usually house rabbits where they have a very close bond with the owner, who spends many hours with their rabbit.
There is also the most horrible high-pitched shriek you never want to hear of a petrified rabbit and you will recognise some growling noises of a scared or discontented rabbit. This all means that we have to be very vigilant and observant and know our rabbits very well to recognise if they are unwell. They are creatures of habit. Signs of illness are extremely subtle, but if noticed and the rabbit is taken to the vets promptly, they can be treated successfully.
The one vital piece of information for a rabbit owner is do not wait to see if they will be better tomorrow. The rabbit probably has been ill for a long time and only just showing symptoms. Also the main thing, which kills rabbits, is not the infection/illness, which can normally be treated, but their digestive system shutting down. Even a few hours without normal grazing can cause life-threatening problems.
Rabbits are creatures of routine so be aware if your rabbit acts differently.
Signs to watch out for....
- Diarrhoea, lack of poo, urine colour/ toilet changes
- Doesn't come and say hello at usual time
- Lets you pick him up, when usually runs away
- Hunched up Hiding in corner
- Doesn't come home as usual
- Doesn't jump for joy for favourite treat
- Doesn't come rushing in for tea- pellets
- Doesn't eat usual amount of pellets.
- Changes in eating habits
- Not drinking/ drinking too much
- Changes in how pair of rabbit's act/ interacts
- Quiet/ depressed
- Gaseous stomach
- Not moving/ hopping correctly
- Loss of weight Watery/ creamy eyes/ nose/ sneezing
- Wax in ears, very dirty genital area
- Colour/ size/ formation of poo
- Lack of use of favourite place, not visible to greet you, waiting for you
- Sitting in same place all day Dirty/ stained bottom
