Questions and Answer
- What should I do if my pet picks up a tick?
A number of sprays, spot-on treatments and collars are licensed to kill and / or repel ticks. Unfortunately even a dead tick can stay attached and the best option may be to remove it. This needs to be done with great care, since simply pulling the tick may result in part of it being left in your pet. Tick removing tools are available to ensure you remove the whole tick, however if you are unsure of how to safely detach the tick you must consult your vet.
- How can I tell if my rabbit has worms?
Unfortunately, in many cases it can be difficult to determine if your rabbit has worms by simply looking at him or indeed his faeces. Some rabbits with a heavy worm burden may look thin and have diarrhoea, however many healthy looking rabbits may also have worms. It is recommended that rabbits are routinely wormed on a regular basis to eliminate this problem.
- How often should I worm my rabbit?
It’s advisable to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations. Your vet will be able to advise you about the best worming regime.
- I think my rabbit has got fleas. What should I do to get rid of them?
Fleas are a very common problem for rabbits and in some cases can cause skin reactions to both rabbit and owner. Fortunately, in the vast majority of cases, this is a problem that can easily be eliminated. There are many flea preparations available and your vet will be able to advise you on the correct one for your pet.
If you have found fleas on your rabbit, there is a high possibility that there will also be fleas in your house. Although some products have activity on fleas within the home, it is often advisable to treat the house with an appropriate household spray too. You should continue to treat your pet against fleas regularly as a preventative measure to avoid reinfestation.
- Should I brush my rabbit’s teeth?
You don’t need to brush your rabbit’s teeth, but dental problems are a major health issue for rabbits. Rabbits need to eat fibre to wear down their continuously growing teeth. If teeth don’t get worn down enough this can cause drooling and lack of appetite. It’s advisable to regularly check your rabbit’s teeth to ensure that dental problems aren’t developing. Your vet will be able to advise you further.
- Should I insure my pet?
Insuring your pet will give you peace of mind that should they be involved in an accident or suffer from illness the veterinary fees will be covered (minus any excess or exemptions). There are many different policies available and it is a good idea to read through the policy details very carefully. Different policies will have different excesses and limits. Some are lifelong policies and some will only cover diseases for one year. Ensure you know what will and won’t be covered with the policy you choose.
- How often should I carry out a healthcheck on my pet?
You should check your pet on a daily basis to make sure there are no signs of disease or injury. Simple changes in behaviour in relation to feeding, activity and toilet habits often give a clue that all is not normal. If in doubt or you find anything abnormal contact your vet for advice.
- How often should I take my rabbit to the vet?
It’s advisable to vaccinate your rabbit against myxomatosis and VHD. Your rabbit will require annual vaccination and at this point a full health examination will be carried out by your vet. Your vet may advise more frequent visits if there are aspects of your rabbit’s health that require regular monitoring. If you have any concerns about your rabbit, contact your vet for advice.
- What diseases should I vaccinate my rabbit against?
Your vet will be able to advise you on the vaccinations required which normally include myxomatosis and VHD.
- How often should I feed my rabbit?
Rabbits should be fed fibre rich diets, such as hay or grass, on a daily basis. This should be supplemented with a complete food which provides all the nutrients in the correct amounts and proportions.
- How often should I play with my rabbit?
Regular daily exercise is essential for your rabbit’s health. Your rabbit should have at least four hours’ exercise a day.
- I think my rabbit is overweight. What should I do?
Obesity is a common problem in pet rabbits and can cause many health problems. If you are concerned that your rabbit is overweight contact your veterinary practice. They will be able to weigh your rabbit for you and advise you on the target weight and how best to achieve this. They will also monitor your rabbit’s progress and make sure there are no medical reasons for your rabbit’s weight problem.
