Neutering
Spaying female rabbits between 6 months and 2 years of age prevents a uterine cancer that is a leading cause of death in the female. It also helps prevent breast cancer. When un- neutered males reach sexual maturity, their urine develops a strong, unpleasant odor and they often spray urine outside the litterbox. These males may not groom themselves well, leading to stained and messy tail areas. Some, especially dwarf varieties, become very aggressive, biting people and inflicting serious wounds on other rabbits. Castration after 5 months of age is recommended to prevent or correct these problems.

Overgrown teeth
Rabbits' teeth grow continuously throughout their life. If the incisors or molars are not lined up properly then they do not get worn down, which results in overgrowth. Overgrown incisors (the front teeth) are usually caused by a congenital defect, but may also be caused by injury or infection. Overgrown teeth can prevent the rabbit from picking up and eating food. The most common treatment is to have the teeth cut periodically (every 3 - 8 weeks). Your veterinarian will use a special instrument to trim the teeth safely. A permanent cure for overgrown incisors is the complete removal of the incisors under a general anesthetic. Rabbits are able to eat normally afterwards

Loss of appetite
Infections and dental problems can cause a rabbit to stop eating, but the most common reason for loss of appetite is a diet low in fiber and high in calories. This combination can lead to obesity, fatty liver disease, sluggish movement of the intestinal tract, and accumulation of hair and food in the stomach. Call your veterinarian immediately if your rabbit stops eating, even if your pet is acting normally. Rabbits rapidly develop a deteriorating condition of the liver when they go without food for long periods of time. If the liver continues to deteriorate, there may be no way to reverse the process. Early diagnosis and treatment of appetite loss is the best way to save your pet's life.

Hairballs
Hairballs are usually a symptom of a poor diet. Angora breeds, which have very long hair, may be an exception to this rule, because the length of their hair may make it difficult to pass. Regular brushing will help prevent hairballs.

Bacterial disease
tract. uterus, skin, kidney, bladder, tear ducts, middle ear or lungs. Please have your pet examined if you observe any discharge around the eyes, nose or anal area, or if there is a loss of appetite, depression, diarrhea, head tilt, loss of balance, or labored breathing. Antibiotics can kill your rabbit! NEVER attempt to use antibiotics without veterinary supervision!

Diarrhea
True diarrhea is not common in the rabbit. This is a condition where all stool being passed is in a liquid form. It is usually a very serious condition and should be seen by your veterinarian immediately. Some serious gastrointestinal infections that result in diarrhea can be fatal in less than 24 hours.

Grooming
Rabbits shed quite a bit. Regular brushing is a necessity for long-haired breeds and is especially beneficial during periods of shedding in all breeds. Brushing helps to prevent hairballs which sometimes require surgical removal. Rabbit's nails should be trimmed with a pet nail trimmer every couple weeks. Avoid cutting the quick, which is the pink area near the base of the nail that contains a nerve and blood vessel. You need to have another person hold the rabbit during nail trimming. Rabbits do not require regular bathing. If a bath becomes necessary, use a shampoo specifically labeled for rabbits or cats.

Lifespan
The average life span for a bunny is 7 to 10 years with records of up to 15 years of age being reported.

Recommended reading
A good publication for house rabbit owners is the House Rabbit Journal. Write to House Rabbit Society, 1615 Encinal Ave., Alameda, Ca. 94501. The cost is $12.00 for 12 issues. The House Rabbit Handbook is also recommended.

© 1998 - Humane Education Committee, Champaign County Humane Society, 1911 East Main, Urbana, IL 61801 USA