As a bunny owner, you want to make sure your rabbit receives the care they need. Here, our Hattiesburg vets share how often you should be taking your bunny to the vet and the importance of routine wellness exams.
When Should I Take my Rabbit to the Vet?
Bunnies typically live between 7and 10 years. During that time, they may get sick or accidentally hurt themselves. When that happens, you should know if and when to take your bunny to your vet. Before doing so, it is important to check if your vet is able to care for exotic animals.
A rabbit's teeth are another reason to go to the vet for routine wellness exams, as they are constantly growing and may need to be trimmed on a periodic basis to avoid infection. Bunnies also react differently to medications such as antibiotics, so it takes a specialist to know what drugs are safe to take and when they are appropriate.
Signs Your Bunny Needs to See a Vet Now
Here are some signs that your bunny might be very sick and requires medical attention right away:- Stops eating and pooping
- Panting with their mouth open
- Drooling. or Sneezing
- Limping
- Becomes very lethargic
- Diarrhea
How Often Should They See the vet?
Bunnies who are healthy only need to be brought to the vet for checkups once a year.
In the case of the bunny being elderly or with existing health issues, the owner might need bring them every 6 months, depending on the vet's suggestion.
If you notice any signs of illness in your bunny, don't wait for their annual checkup. Hop to it and take them to the vet ASAP!
How to Prepare for a Vet Visit?
If your bunny is appears to be sick or unwell, write down all their symptoms and then contact the vet.
Some appointments, such as diagnostic tests and surgery, will require a urine sample on the morning of the appointment. Everything you need to know or do on the day of your appointment should be discussed when booking your appointment.
There are things you may need to bring with you to the appointment. To make sure your bunny is comfortable you will want to make sure you have their carrying crate, blanket/toys, and treats for being a good bunny and behaving well for the vet. You will also want to bring/write down any medications your bunny may be taking.
Procedures and Vaccines for Rabbits
One of the things vets will usually check in rabbits is to make sure their teeth have not grown too long or are at risk for infection. The vet will check that your rabbit is at a healthy weight, as well as their breathing and heart rates, and their ears and eyes.
The initial checkup will set a standard for your rabbit's consistent health so the vet is familiar with their needs.
When you first get your bunny you need to know what vaccines your bunny is going to need over the course of their lives to maintain its health. While no vaccines are mandatory to have a bunny, there are a few vaccines they will require to protect against myxomatosis, Rabbit (Viral) Hemorrhagic Disease (R(V)HD) ,and a strain of R(V)HD - R(V)HD2 - all of which are fatal. If you are unclear on the vaccine history of your bunny before they became part of your family talk to your vet so they can make suggestions on what to do in this case.
How Much Does a Vet Visit Cost for a Rabbit?
The cost of an annual check-up for your bunny may vary based on what needs to be done at the visit. This price could be impacted by your location or the overall health of your rabbit. If cost is a concern, we do offer some financing options.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.