Monitor the size, texture and amount of droppings or fecal balls that your rabbit produces. This is a sensitive indicator of a rabbit’s health. A healthy rabbit produces a similar amount of same-sized fecal balls every day. If the droppings become misshapen, of varying size, less is passed, or any softer than normal, Hvisit the vet as soon as possible. Poor gut function can be a life-threatening condition.

abbits’ diet should remain consistent: free choice hay, small amount of pellets and dark green leafy vegetables. The appetite for these foods should also remain consistent. Any decrease in appetite or a changing preference for certain foods is a sign that something is wrong. Please visit the vet as soon as possible if you notice any changes in your rabbit’s appetite.

In the wild any ill rabbit will immediately be a target for any hunter such as a fox, so they try to hide signs of problems. Sick rabbits will usually appear very bright and active until their disease is already very advanced. Any rabbit that shows lethargy or is quieter than normal should be seen by the vet immediately.

Salivation is a sign of a sore mouth or dental problems. The fur on the lower neck or around the mouth may become wet. Some rabbits with painful mouths will chew on one side only or drop the food. The incisors may wear unevenly. Dental disease is a common problem in older bunnies, Iif you see any of these signs visit the vet as soon as possible for a dental check.

Respiratory infections are very common in rabbits, especially those coming from a high rabbit population such as a pet shop or breeder. If there is any sign of discharge from either eye or the nose or sneezing, please visit the vet immediately. Discharge is usually white, but can be yellow or green. It should be treated as soon as possible to avoid spread to other rabbits. Discharge from the eyes is often accompanied with redness, squinting and/or rubbing the eyes – any signs of eye discomfort should be seen immediately.

Respiratory infections can reach the lungs, causing life-threateningpneumonia. Rabbits with pneumonia may cough and breathe heavily. Heat stress will also cause rabbits to breathe heavily and can be fatal. If you see any changes in the breathing pattern of your rabbit, or hear any coughing, please visit the vet immediately.

Rabbits are prone to developing abscesses, and un-neutered females are prone to tumours and infections of the mammary glands. Run your hands over all parts of your rabbit every day – if any lumps are found, bring your rabbit to the vet to find out what it is and what can be done about it.

Your rabbit should stay in good body condition and maintain a steady weight. You should be able to feel the ribs with gentle pressure. If your rabbit is becoming thinner or seems bony it may be a sign of dental or dietary problems, or of other diseases such as a growth or abscess. You can monitor a rabbit’s weight every month to notice any changes as soon as possible.

Rabbits naturally have a lot of normal variation in the colour of their urine from pale yellow to dark brown. Sometimes normal urine has a reddish appearance. Rabbits may be suffering from urinary infections if any of the following signs are seen

If you are unsure if the urine colour is normal, you can bring a fresh urine sample to the clinic for testing. Urine problems are quite common and can result from bladder infections, bladder stones or uterine problems.

Rabbits, especially ‘Loppy’ rabbits with long downward facing ears, are prone to infections of the outer ear canal, which can become very serious causing rupture of the ear drum and middle ear disease (see Head Tilt, below). If you notice your rabbit shaking the head, scratching at the ears, any discharge or abnormal smell from the ears, visit the vet to have them checked.

Middle ear infections or problems in the brain caused by a parasite can result in a tilt of the head which can progress to a loss of balance, falling over and ‘spinning’ (where the rabbit rolls over continually). This very serious condition requires immediate veterinary attention.

External parasites are common in rabbits, especially those that visit pet shops or places where they will have contact with new rabbits. If you see any hair loss, or excess dandruff or your rabbit seems to groom itself more frequently than usual, visit the vet for a skin check.

Salivation is a sign of a sore mouth or dental problems. The fur on the lower neck or around the mouth may become wet. Some rabbits with painful mouths will chew on one side only or drop the food. The incisors may wear unevenly. Dental disease is a common problem in older bunnies, Iif you see any of these signs visit the vet as soon as possible for a dental check.

Rabbits which stand still on a hard surface for long periods of time are prone to getting pressure sores on their feet. These are often seen on the bottom of the hind feet, towards the back of the foot. The first sign is loss of hair on the feet, and then the skin becomes red and swollen. Never cut fur off the feet as it helps protect the bottom of the foot.