Rabbit Savvy Vets
What is the difference between a regular vet and a rabbit savvy vet? The answer to that starts with our furry friends! Rabbits are considered "exotics", this means that not all vets are trained in rabbit care. It is important to identify a vet office early on for your rabbit, for regular check ups and emergency care.
In the USA, rabbits do not require vaccinations, however, they still need checkups to ensure their health and well being. As prey animals, rabbits are excellent at hiding any issues, a rabbit savvy vet can identify potential problems before they become a health concern for your bunny such as dental issues.
** The RHDV2 virus has been identified in many US states. At this point it should not be of immediate concern to domestic rabbit owners in Iowa, however it is always good practice to keep your rabbits indoors to prevent the spread of disease.**
What is considered an emergency for a rabbit?
· Diarrhea with listlessness
· Sudden loss of appetite with bloat and abdominal gurgling
· Loss of appetite with labored breathing
· Loss of appetite with runny nose
· Head tilt
· Incontinence (urine-soaked rear legs)
· Abscesses, lumps or swellings anywhere
· Any sudden behavior change
If your rabbit exhibits any of these issues, they need to see a vet as soon as possible. We have compiled a list of vet clinics who we know have an exotics vet on staff capable of treating rabbits. However, we advise you to call ahead to check that staff member is still with the clinic prior to making an appointment.
In the USA, rabbits do not require vaccinations, however, they still need checkups to ensure their health and well being. As prey animals, rabbits are excellent at hiding any issues, a rabbit savvy vet can identify potential problems before they become a health concern for your bunny such as dental issues.
** The RHDV2 virus has been identified in many US states. At this point it should not be of immediate concern to domestic rabbit owners in Iowa, however it is always good practice to keep your rabbits indoors to prevent the spread of disease.**
What is considered an emergency for a rabbit?
· Diarrhea with listlessness
· Sudden loss of appetite with bloat and abdominal gurgling
· Loss of appetite with labored breathing
· Loss of appetite with runny nose
· Head tilt
· Incontinence (urine-soaked rear legs)
· Abscesses, lumps or swellings anywhere
· Any sudden behavior change
If your rabbit exhibits any of these issues, they need to see a vet as soon as possible. We have compiled a list of vet clinics who we know have an exotics vet on staff capable of treating rabbits. However, we advise you to call ahead to check that staff member is still with the clinic prior to making an appointment.