It’s important to find a bunny-savvy veterinarian who understands the specific care rabbits require. It’s a great idea to have this veterinarian in place before an emergency occurs. To help you “vet” who is most qualified to care for your bun, we have provided the following questions to ask your prospective bun vet.*
Do you treat rabbits? If so, how often?
Obviously, if this is a “no”, you should move on to the next prospective vet.
If my rabbit is showing signs of GI stasis, what would you recommend?
Their response should include the following:
*They would conduct a physical checkup (gently feeling the abdomen, possibly checking the ears as ear issues can sometimes accompany GI stasis, surveying rabbit’s overall demeanor – is he listless, breathing heavily?).
*They would ask you questions such as: Has your bun been acting different than usual? How so (is your bun not eating, sitting scrunched up, etc.)? When did this behavior start?
*If GI stasis is confirmed, the vet would recommend treatment – typically an antibiotic and painkiller that is safe for buns. Pediatric Gas X may also be recommended to help reduce the bloat quickly. If your bun isn’t eating at all, the vet should also recommend syringe feeding Critical Care several times a day to help get the digestion “flowing” again.
*A follow up appointment may be recommended if you do not see improvement within the next couple days.
What do you typically do for rabbit ear infections?
This response should also include a physical check up where your vet looks into your bun’s ears with an otoscope and asks you questions about your rabbit’s behavior. The treatment should involve a bun-safe antibiotic and ear drops. A follow up appointment (usually 2 weeks out) to make sure the infection is also good protocol.
A couple other great questions to ask:
How old is your oldest bun patient and how long have you been seeing him/her?
Spayed/neutered rabbits can live to be 10-13 years old.
Do you have a pet rabbit, or have you had one in the past?
As many of us have learned, you don’t really understand a rabbit until you have one!
I recommend taking your bun into your bun-savvy vet every 6-8 months so your vet can look at their ears, eyes, teeth and hocks to catch any issues early so your bun can have a long, happy life. These visits also help build a rapport between you and your vet!
Because I have seen my bunny vet for several years and take my buns in regularly, she has helped educate me to the point to where if I see the signs of GI stasis or an ear infection at home, she will just call in a prescription for me.
Having a rabbit savvy vet who cares about you and your rabbit is valuable and rewarding. Be sure to do your due diligence when finding the right vet for you and your bun so you have the right support for a healthy rabbit.
Not sure where to look? The House Rabbit Society has some rabbit-savvy vets listed at the button below (scroll down a bit to see the list of states). You can also check Google for vets who treat exotics in your area. Just be sure to ask them the right questions before allowing them to treat your rabbit.
Love and Health To You And Your Bun,
Kristin
*Please note that I am not a veterinarian; I am someone who has owned rabbits for many years. I have learned the hard way over the years what works best for buns and what does not. My goal is to help you avoid my past mistakes so you and your bun can have happy, healthy lives together.