RABBIT DISEASES AND DISORDERS

As with the keeping of all animals in captivity, you should continually be on the lookout for signs of illness. Although many diseases are unlikely to arise if animals are kept in comfortable, hygienic conditions and given a balanced diet, there is always the chance that something may accidentally be introduced. With rabbits, prevention is better than cure. However, there are certain early signs you can detect that indicate that a rabbit is not 100% fit or well.
Dull, lifeless eyes are a sure indication that a rabbit is sick, and if the animal sits moping in a corner with its fur puffed out (at normal temperatures) or grinds its teeth, you can be certain that all is not well. At such times the rabbit's droppings may not be normal and these should be one of the first things you examine when illness is suspected.
In any case, you should keep an observant eye for such things at all times so that any problems can be nipped in the bud at an early stage-before it is too late! Some diseases can be quickly diagnosed, and an effective cure can be speedily commenced. Unfortunately, the symptoms of some other diseases are relatively vague, giving the malady a chance to consolidate before you can effectively take action. It is, however, important that rabbit diseases be properly diagnosed to prevent infecting other animals. Dead rabbits should be brought to a veterinarian for post mortem examination. Most areas have state veterinary laboratories for this purpose.
These are just a few of the commonly occurring ailments. In any case, it is always wise to consult your veterinarian the moment you suspect something is wrong.