Rabbit Health
Keeping your bunny healthy is important for a long and happy life! This page contains links and articles for common health conditions.
These links are for information only and are not a substitute for veterinary care. If you think your bunny is sick, seek medical attention.
Common Health Concerns
RHDV2
RHDV2 is highly contagious and affects both domestic and wild rabbits. The disease was confirmed in the southwestern US in March 2020 and has continued to spread across multiple states. In June 2021 the first case was confirmed in Georgia. The RHDV2 virus is very resistant to extreme temperatures. It can be spread through direct contact or exposure to an infected rabbit’s excretions or blood. The virus can also survive and spread from food, water, and any contaminated materials. People can spread the virus indirectly by carrying it on their clothing and shoes. While this virus has not yet reached NC, we recommend that everyone learn about measures to help keep their rabbits safe. A US-made vaccine for RHDV2 has been in development and Medgene Labs has received Emergency Use Authorization.
RHDV2 Vaccine Information:
Veterinarians in North Carolina can now apply for vaccine permits, according to this letter from the NCDA&CS.
Rabbitors is maintaining a list of vaccine availability in each state.
Rabbitors is maintaining a list of vaccine availability in each state.
Spaying and Neutering
Having your rabbit spayed or neutered is very important for his or her health. It will also make your bunny easier to live with.
Spaying or Neutering Your Pet Bunny
Get Your Rabbit Spayed/Neutered
The SPCA of Wake County offers a voucher program for reduced cost spays and neuters. You can purchase a voucher from them and take it to an approved clinic. You must contact the clinic beforehand to find out which voucher (dog/cat) they accept for rabbits. For more information and a list of participating veterinarians, visit the SPCA's website.
Spaying or Neutering Your Pet Bunny
Get Your Rabbit Spayed/Neutered
The SPCA of Wake County offers a voucher program for reduced cost spays and neuters. You can purchase a voucher from them and take it to an approved clinic. You must contact the clinic beforehand to find out which voucher (dog/cat) they accept for rabbits. For more information and a list of participating veterinarians, visit the SPCA's website.
Toxic Plants
Many houseplants can be dangerous for your rabbit. Links for identifying toxic plants:
National Animal Poison Control Center (ASPCA)
A resource for any animal poison-related emergency, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. If you think that your pet may have ingested a potentially poisonous substance, call (888) 426-4435. A $65 consultation fee may be applied to your credit card.
A resource for any animal poison-related emergency, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. If you think that your pet may have ingested a potentially poisonous substance, call (888) 426-4435. A $65 consultation fee may be applied to your credit card.
Websites for information about rabbit health
MedirabbitThe Vet’s Library (at VetTechnicins.org)
Online Learning Library (SDHRS)
Further reading about rabbit health:
Rabbit Health in the 21st Century Second Edition: A Guide for Bunny ParentsTextbook of Rabbit Medicine, 1st Edition (by Frances Harcourt-Brown BVSc MRCVS)
Textbook of Rabbit Medicine, 2nd Edition (by Molly Varga)
When Your Rabbit Needs Special Care: Traditional and Alternative Healing Methods
Rabbit Nutrition and Nutritional Healing
The Relaxed Rabbit: Massage for Your Pet Bunny
Making a first aid kit
It is always a good idea to have some first aid supplies for your bunny. Some things you can include in your first aid kit are:
list of important phone numbers
triple antibiotic ointment
simethicone infant gas drops
saline solution
iodine solution
styptic powder
cotton swabs
gauze
small flashlight or pen light
triple antibiotic ointment
simethicone infant gas drops
saline solution
iodine solution
styptic powder
cotton swabs
gauze
small flashlight or pen light
tweezers
blunt end scissors
cool pack
heating pad or hot water bottle (no cords)
small syringes (no needles)
vegetable or fruit baby food (stage 1)
canned pumpkin
pedialyte
blunt end scissors
cool pack
heating pad or hot water bottle (no cords)
small syringes (no needles)
vegetable or fruit baby food (stage 1)
canned pumpkin
pedialyte
Triangle Rabbits is an all-volunteer 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization serving North Carolina, U.S.A.