When Should I Take My Rabbit To The Vet?
While your rabbit may be healthy most of the time, there may be times when sickness or injury occurs. When that happens you should know if and when to take your bunny to Charlotte vets.
Like any other pet, your bunny will see a vet at least once in its life, the only difference is that it will need to see a vet who specializes in small or exotic animals, and Charlotte vets can help.
Bunnies have constantly growing teeth and may need to be trimmed periodically by a vet. 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.
Symptoms That Require Veterinary Care
- Stops eating and pooping
- Panting with their mouth open
- Drooling. or Sneezing
- Limping
- Becomes very lethargic
- Diarrhea
- Head tilts to the side or is upside down
How Often To Bring Your Rabbit in For Routine Care
There is no set time frame to see the vet like other pets but bunnies who are healthy only need to be brought to the vet for a checkup once a year.
If your bunny is elderly or has health problems, you should bring them to the vet every 6 months. And, of course, if you notice any signs of illness in your bunny, it’s essential to make an appointment with us as soon as possible.
What To Do Prior To Bringing Your Rabbit to Your Vet
If your bunny is feeling sick or unwell, write down all their symptoms to take with you; this will help your vet determine the root of the issue. Then you will need to call and book your appointment.
Some appointments, such as diagnostic tests and surgery, will require you to collect a urine sample on the morning of the appointment. But everything you need to know or do on the day of your appointment will be discussed with 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 they may want after being treated. You will also want to bring/write down medications your bunny may be taking.
Preventive Care For Your Rabbit
When you take your bunny to the vet they will want to check your rabbit’s teeth to make sure they aren’t growing too long and are not infected. The vet will also make sure your rabbit is a healthy weight, check their breathing and heart rates, and make sure their ears and eyes look healthy.
A checkup will give your vet a baseline of your rabbit’s health so that they are familiar with your bunny so they can deal with any situation if your rabbit ever does need to be brought in because they are not feeling well.
When you first get your bunny you need to know what vaccines your bunny is going to need throughout 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) Haemorrhagic Disease (R(V)HD), and a strain of R(V)HD - R(V)HD2 - all of which are fatal.
What Are The Costs Associated With Veterinary Care For Rabbits
When it comes to the cost of an annual check-up for your bunny it may vary based on what needs to be done. Your vet will be able to provide you with an estimate for the cost of your visit.
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.