BSAVA pledges support for Rabbit Awareness Week

Despite a marked increase in the number of pet rabbits kept in the UK, our ability to interpret the behaviour of this prey species is still lacking. This chapter provides guidance on recognizing and treating pain in rabbits. Case examples: Reduced gastrointestinal motility (gut stasis); Fractured limb; Dental abscess.

 Livia Benato of CityVets Exotic Animal Vet Services, based in Exeter, helps us work-up the rabbit with a head tilt.

Client information leaflet

Client information leaflet

Pet rabbits are prone to a number of disease conditions that are due, totally or in part, to incorrect husbandry. Correct husbandry is highly important for preventing and treating such conditions. This chapter covers purchase and acquisition of pet rabbits, legal requirements, companionship, housing (indoor and outdoor) and travelling.

Veterinary surgeons must make animal health and welfare the first consideration when attending to animals. With the increase in the number of rabbits being presented for veterinary care, practices should aim to promote the reduction of stress in the surgery and its associated negative impact on the welfare of patients. This chapter covers staff training, the waiting and consultation rooms, equipping the hospital ward, preventive healthcare and euthanasia. An example rabbit discharge sheet is included, together with client handouts.

Anorexia is very common in the rabbit and is invariably a sign of an underlying problem. Richard Saunders explores the causes.

This chapter provides the need-to-know information on rabbits:

• Biology
• Husbandry
• Handling and restraint
• Diagnostic approach
• Common conditions
• Supportive care
• Anaesthesia and analgesia
• Common surgical procedures
• Euthanasia
• Drug formulary.

Urine scalding in rabbits is common but unless the underlying cause is investigated, supportive treatment alone is unlikely to be effective.