The Best Guide for the SO50 Area

NATIONAL RABBIT WEEK 21-27 January 2008

Published: 14th January 2008 17:45

As many of you know, rabbits are the UK's third most popular pet. Currently there are approximately two million pet rabbits in the UK of which less than 10 % receive proper preventative healthcare and nutrition.

During National Rabbit week we, and many other veterinary practices, are offering free dental and health care checks for your rabbit. Please book your 'Healthy Hopper' MOT to discuss rabbit nutrition, care and vaccination - phone Boyatt Wood Veterinary Surgery on 023 8062 9050.

A good and healthy diet is of utmost importance for your rabbit to have healthy teeth. Dental problems are very common in rabbits and can present with various symptoms such as not eating well, dribbling saliva, losing weight, not grooming properly (which can lead to secondary problems such as fly strike) or even runny eyes. This is caused when tooth roots elongate and block the tear ducts. Overgrown and deformed teeth can cut into the gums and tongue causing severe discomfort and possibly abscesses, which are very difficult to treat. Genetics do play a role in dental problems, but the correct diet can help to manage the problem. 

 The basis of a healthy rabbit's diet should be plenty of good quality, clean hay and grass. This gives your bunny the essential fibre they need for a healthy digestive system and helps grinding down teeth and prevent boredom. Your rabbit should have a supplementary diet to provide all the vitamins and minerals they need. The best type of food is a pellet food such as Burgess Supa Rabbit Excel. Please do not feed your rabbit a muesli style food as they will selectively eat only the flakes which are high in sugar and the cause of numerous health problems in rabbits, including overgrown teeth. It is important to remember that even a good food such as Supa Rabbit should only be fed in moderation to allow your rabbit to eat lots of hay to grind down his teeth and prevent obesity and boredom. Please do not give them chocolate drops or other sweet treats as their digestive systems are not adapted to high sugar diets. Fresh greens and herbs are a good and healthy option for treats.

Annekie Montgomery BSc(Hons) BVSc MRCVS is available for consultation at Boyatt Wood Veterinary Surgery - tel 023 8062 9050 - or you can contact the sister practice, Chandlers Ford Veterinary Surgery, on 023 8025 2543 

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