Introduction
Pet rabbits can develop dental problems during their lifetime without proper care. Rabbits’ teeth grow continuously their entire life due to the damage their diet in the wild does to their teeth. Rabbits naturally eat a variety of plant material ranging from very soft to very hard. The hard plant material constantly files away the surface of the teeth and leads to tooth wear. In captivity, plant material or roughage needs to be supplied to prevent the teeth from …
Trimming a rabbit’s toenails can be an intimidating task. Once you are comfortable with how to properly restrain your rabbit, you can begin to trim its nails. It is important that you do not trim too close to the quick. Trimming your rabbit’s nails will be a test of the trust between you and your rabbit but will be extremely rewarding to you as an owner after you have completed the task.
Watch the following video from the University of …
Proper handling is a major aspect of rabbit ownership. When taking your rabbit out of any cage, be sure to support the hind legs to prevent back injury. When holding your rabbit, you should always maintain a firm yet calm attitude.
Watch a 4-H member describe how to remove a rabbit from its travel cage and how to handle the rabbit in the following video provided by the University of Nebraska — Lincoln.
Introduction
One of the most common urinary tract ailments is a urinary tract infection, also called cystitis. Cystitis is characterized by the inflammation of the urinary bladder caused by a buildup of bacteria. Most rabbits with this condition will have discomfort while urinating. Regular observation of your rabbit’s elimination behavior and proper husbandry will help prevent the development of an infection.
Causes
Some rabbits have abnormal urinary tract structures that can predispose the animal to infections. Abnormal structural change can …
Introduction
Kidney disease is a condition also referred to as renal disease that occurs in rabbits. Renal disease is characterized by the inability of the kidneys to maintain normal function. Kidney failure is normally a result of poor husbandry and a diet high in calcium. Other causes such as severe trauma and stroke may lead to acute development of the disease.
Causes
Older rabbits are particularly prone to this condition; however, younger rabbits can also develop the disease. Often symptoms …
The urinary system of a rabbit includes the kidneys and bladder and is responsible for removing waste from the body. Because of this function, it can also be referred to as the excretory system. The kidneys are responsible for maintaining acid/base balance, adjusting electrolytes, and altering urine metabolite concentrations. The urine produced in the kidneys travels to the bladder through two muscular tubes called ureters. The urine is then stored in the bladder until it is excreted out of the …
Introduction
Under the right conditions, rabbits can develop stones within the urinary tract. The stones are caused by the accumulation of mineral deposits. This condition is called urolithiasis. Urolithiasis can occur in any of the organs of the urinary system. Small stones can be removed by flushing the urinary system while the rabbit is under anesthesia. However, it is necessary to remove large stones surgically.
Causes
Rabbits normally excrete extra calcium provided in the diet through their urine unlike humans, …
Introduction
Playfulness is a normal rabbit behavior that is observed in the wild. Rabbits play by running, leaping, and chasing each other or inanimate objects. Rabbit owners can take advantage of this natural behavior by providing handmade or store-bought toys for their rabbits. It is important that owners carefully examine toys for parts that could possibly be swallowed. Owners should also keep in mind that each rabbit is unique. Your rabbit may not like some toys, but may love others. …
Having a pet to talk to and touch can be a great benefit to children in child care, especially shy youngsters. Children can learn responsibility by caring for a pet and may enjoy watching animals play and eat. Having a pet in your child care program takes thought and planning. Before you go out and buy a snake or a rabbit, be ready to ensure children are safe and healthy around the pet and the pet is treated gently and …
When showing your rabbit in 4-H, you may enter into rabbit showmanship. Showmanship may be done differently in different locations, but the basic concept is to show the judge how your rabbit does or does not conform to breed standards and your general knowledge of rabbits.
These examples of 4-H rabbit showmanship are presented by 4-H members. A good showmanship presentation combines information about your rabbit breed and how well your rabbit conforms to breed standards.
