When to Call the Rabbit Vet in an Emergency
Learn the early warning signs of illness in rabbits and when to call the rabbit vet. This guide helps rabbit owners recognize emergency symptoms quickly so they can help their pets immediately.
Amy Jackson & The Hot Cross Buns
7/30/20252 min read
When to Call the Vet in an Emergency
This information is included in the care folder that all of our rabbit families receive when they come to pick up their new Bun. We believe it is extremely important for rabbit owners to understand the subtle warning signs rabbits show when they are not feeling well.
Rabbits are prey animals. Because of this, they instinctively hide signs of illness in order to avoid appearing weak to predators. Unfortunately, this means many owners do not realize their rabbit is sick until the situation has become serious.
Learning to recognize small changes in behavior can help you respond quickly and get your rabbit the care he or she needs.
The more time you spend observing your rabbit and becoming familiar with normal habits, the easier it will be to notice when something is wrong.
If you see any of the following signs, contact your veterinarian as soon as possible.
Warning Signs That Require Veterinary Attention
Call your veterinarian immediately if your rabbit shows any of the following symptoms:
Your rabbit is acting “off” or uninterested in things that normally bring excitement, such as feeding time or treats
Your rabbit is unusually lethargic or inactive
Your rabbit is hunched up and grinding his or her teeth in pain
Your rabbit has a firm or swollen abdomen
Your rabbit has stopped eating or drinking
Your rabbit is not producing normal droppings or is producing only very small, dry droppings
Your rabbit has bloody discharge from the nose, mouth, eyes, or vent area
Your rabbit has diarrhea
Your rabbit is wheezing, panting, or struggling to breathe
Your rabbit becomes unconscious or unresponsive
Your rabbit shows signs of shock such as rapid breathing, pale gums, cold ears, or glazed eyes
Your rabbit has an obvious injury such as a broken bone or a serious wound
These symptoms can indicate a serious medical problem that requires immediate attention.
Be Prepared Before an Emergency Happens
One of the most helpful things a rabbit owner can do is prepare ahead of time.
Make sure you have the contact information for your regular veterinarian readily available. It is also wise to identify at least two additional emergency veterinarians who treat rabbits.
Rabbits have an uncanny ability to develop health problems late at night or on weekends when many clinics are closed. Knowing where to go before an emergency occurs can save valuable time when your rabbit needs help quickly.
When it comes to rabbit health, early intervention often makes a significant difference in recovery.