What Every Bunny Owner Should Know

Rabbits may be quiet, but when something’s wrong, it can escalate quickly. At V.E.T. Care Hospital, we know these fluffy companions are sensitive and fragile. Plus, they often hide signs of illness until it’s serious. That’s why rabbit owners need to stay alert and proactive with their care routines. If you’re caring for a bunny—whether it’s your first or your fifth—this guide is for you.

In this blog from a Burleson, TX vet, we’ll walk you through the most common rabbit health problems, what symptoms to look for, and how to prevent them. Rabbits can live long, happy lives with the right care—and it all starts with knowing what’s normal and what’s not.

Why Rabbits Are Tricky Patients

Unlike cats or dogs, rabbits are prey animals by nature. They instinctively hide illness to avoid appearing vulnerable. While this is great protection from predators in the wild, it can be problematic in a home setting.

• Delayed Symptoms: A rabbit may be sick for days before showing visible signs.
• Subtle Cues: A quiet change in posture or eating habits could signal a big problem.
• Fast Decline: Illnesses like GI stasis can worsen rapidly without prompt vet care.

Common Rabbit Health Problems

Gastrointestinal (GI) Stasis

This is the most common and dangerous issue in rabbits. It occurs when the digestive system slows or stops entirely.

Signs to Watch:

• Reduced appetite or refusal to eat
• Smaller, fewer, or no droppings
• Hunched posture or grinding teeth (a sign of pain)

Dental Disease

Overgrown teeth can cause pain, infection, and prevent a bunny from eating properly.

Signs to Watch:

• Drooling or wet chin
• Difficulty chewing
• Swelling
• Weight loss or selective eating

Respiratory Infections

Rabbits can catch colds too! 

Signs to Watch:

• Runny nose or eyes
• Sneezing
• Head tilt or balance issues

Preventive Care for Rabbits

Preventing illness is always easier than treating it. A good rabbit care routine includes:

• Proper Diet: Hay should make up 80–90% of their intake. Fresh greens and limited pellets round it out. Be sure to ask your vet for specific information on safe foods.
• Regular Vet Visits: Yearly exams help spot issues early, even if your bunny seems fine.
• Dental Monitoring: Watch for warning signs, and ask your vet to check those teeth!
• Stress-Free Living Space: Rabbits are sensitive to noise, handling, and sudden changes.

Home Health Checks for Your Bunny

You know your rabbit best. Doing gentle weekly checks can help you catch issues early.

What to Look For:

• Coat Condition: Dull fur or bald spots?
• Eyes & Nose: Should be clear and free from discharge.
• Behavior: Is Floppy hiding more than usual? Is she acting cranky or antisocial?
• Droppings: Changes in size, shape, or frequency can be red flags.

Tip: Weigh your rabbit weekly if possible. Sudden weight loss can be a sign of a problem.

When to Call the Burleson, TX Vet

If your rabbit shows any severe symptoms contact a veterinary clinic right away. Some possible options include:

• No food or water intake for 8+ hours
• No droppings for 12 hours
• Severe lethargy or collapse
• Visible injury or bleeding

At  V.E.T. Care Hospital, we have experience handling and treating rabbits with the care they need.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should my rabbit see the vet?

We recommend annual checkups. You may need to bring Floppy sooner if you notice warning signs of illness, or if anything changes with her eating or behavior.

Can indoor rabbits still get sick?

Yes! Even indoor rabbits can develop dental issues, catch respiratory infections, or experience GI stasis.

Contact Our Burleson, TX Pet Hospital

Rabbit health can be tricky, but it’s manageable with the right knowledge and care. By staying alert and scheduling regular checkups at  V.E.T. Care Hospital, you’re helping your bunny live a long, healthy life.

If you’re looking for a great veterinary hospital in Burleson, TX, you can try googling “best vet near me” … or just come to us!