Domestic rabbits are descended from the wild European rabbit – Oryctolagus cuniculus. Over hundreds of years, wild rabbits who were caught and subsequently bred as a food source became more and more domesticated, as the tamer individuals were kept back for breeding.
Along with a more relaxed and tolerant personality, other traits also evolved – such as colour variations and floppy ears. Today, there are more than 300 different breeds of rabbit, from the Netherland Dwarf – weighing only 1kg – to the Flemish Giant, who weighs 7-8kg. Some have floppy ears (Lop bunnies), some have masses of very fine hair that is used in the textile industry (Angora), and there are hundreds of colours and coat patterns to choose from.
Captivity has, however, also left our pet bunnies with a number of problems. Small breeds are more prone to dental disease, due to the shortening of their skulls. Large breeds can develop spine and joint disease, such as arthritis, and fluffy rabbits often struggle with matted coats, unless they are brushed daily or clipped.
1. Dental issues
Probably the most common problem – and one that is preventable – is dental disease. Due to the fact that they eat hard grasses in the wild, rabbits have ever-growing teeth (otherwise, they would quickly be worn down to nothing).
If domestic bunnies aren’t offered enough fibrous material in their diets, their teeth grow too long, and can cause them to stop eating. This is because of the pain resulting from the sharp edges of the teeth cutting into the tongue and cheeks. Rabbits with dental pain will then avoid fibrous foods, as it is too painful to eat them. This leads to ileus (slowing down of the contractions that move food along the intestines) because fibre is needed to stimulate the gut to contract. Ileus can be fatal, as starvation, dehydration and liver failure ensue.
Should you notice that your rabbit is not eating; is being suddenly picky about what he eats; is passing fewer, smaller or no droppings; or has drool around his jaw and front legs, a vet visit is needed urgently.
2. Upper respiratory disease
This is also common in rabbits. Caused by a number of different bacteria, presentations can vary from nasal discharge and sneezing to runny eyes, or a head tilt to one side if the inner ear is affected.
More serious progression of the disease can cause difficulty breathing, a blue colour to the gums and tongue, or even death. Rabbits are unusual in that they cannot breathe through their mouths, due to their unique anatomy. It is for this reason that having a blocked nose can be a serious emergency in rabbits, because they can actually suffocate. A stretched-out neck or gasping with the mouth open indicate that the rabbit is struggling to breathe.
3. Abscesses
Rabbits often present with abscesses, which will appear as a firm lump under the skin. Typically, a vet visit is needed to remove the abscess and give antibiotics to prevent another one from forming. Abscesses on the face are often related to underlying dental disease.
4. Parasites
Several parasites can infect our pet rabbits. Ear mites are almost microscopic and cause severe inflammation and discomfort to the rabbit. A severe infection will leave a rabbit looking as if both his ears are stuffed with breakfast cereal flakes. The parasite can be treated and eradicated easily by your vet, and recovery is generally excellent, after a short course of antibiotics and painkillers. Many of the antiparasitic products made for dogs and cats can safely be used in rabbits, EXCEPT Frontline, which causes seizures and collapse.
[arrow to bum] Fly strike is an awful and easily preventable condition. If a rabbit has a soiled bum – either due to diarrhoea or due to matted fur – the faeces attracts flies, which then lay their eggs there. The eggs then hatch, producing maggots, which can do severe damage to the skin if undiscovered.
5. Fragile skeleton
Rabbits may look quite robust, but they have surprisingly fragile skeletons and can easily injure their backs, which can lead to temporary or permanent paralysis of the hindlegs. Always support his hindlegs when picking up or carrying your rabbit. A scared rabbit may kick out wildly and, if unsupported, could damage his spine.
6. Cancers
The most common cancers seen in rabbits are related to the reproductive tract. As cancers of the uterus are so common, we recommend that female pet bunnies should be routinely sterilised (spayed).
With proper care and feeding, rabbits can live for up to 12 years and can be fantastic companion animals, suitable (with supervision) for even young children. Please be sure to take your rabbit to an experienced vet if you notice any of the above-mentioned warning signs, or if your bunny is not looking well. Rabbits are inherently good at masking their illness until it is advanced, because wild rabbits become targets for predators if they show any signs of weakness.
