Rabbit care basics: diet, teeth and emergency signs

The right diet

• Hay (or fresh grass) makes up most of the diet and should always be available.
• A daily portion of fresh leafy greens.
• A small amount of rabbit pellets.
• Carrots and fruit are treats only, in small amounts, despite the cartoon image.
• Never give avocado; it is toxic to rabbits.
• Change food gradually, over about two weeks.

Teeth that never stop growing

A rabbit’s front teeth grow about 2–3 mm a week, and chewing hay is what wears them down naturally, so too little hay often leads to painful dental problems. Watch for drooling, a wet chin or trouble eating; these need a check-up.

Emergency signs

• Not eating, or eating less.
• Fewer, smaller or no droppings.
• Lethargy and hiding, or tooth grinding, which is a sign of pain.
• Diarrhoea or a dirty bottom.

These can mean gut stasis, which can be fatal if treatment is delayed. Don’t wait; call the vet straight away.

Company and handling

• Rabbits are social animals and are best kept in pairs, such as a neutered male and female.
• Never lift a rabbit by its ears or the scruff of its neck; it is very stressful and can cause injury.
• Pick them up with one hand under the chest and the other supporting the hindquarters, held close to your body.