When to Call the Vet in the Event of an Emergency
Bunnies are very good at hiding ailments and health problems. It's important to know what to look for when something seems to be a bit "off" with your beloved pet.
Amy J.
7/30/20251 min read
This information is given to all of our clients in their information folder when they come to pick up their Bun. We feel it's important information for all bunny families to know the subtle signs the bunnies give when they aren't feeling well or when something is very wrong.
When to Call the Vet in the Event of an Emergency
As they are prey animals, bunnies are very subtle about showing signs of illness because they don’t want predators to know they are feeling weak. Far too often people don’t realize their bunny is ill until it’s too late. This information is intended to help you see any warning signs early enough to help your bunny receive the best care as quickly as possible. The better you know your rabbit and the more time you spend with him/her, the more easily you will be able to recognize when something is amiss.
If you see one or more of these symptoms in your rabbit, please call your vet!
Your bunny is acting “off” and doesn’t respond when you do things that normally get him excited and happy (like feeding time or treats)
Your bunny is lethargic
Your bunny is hunched up and grinding her teeth in pain
Your bunny has a firm, swollen belly
Your bunny is exhibiting signs of anorexia (not eating or drinking)
Your bunny is not producing poo balls at all or only a few very small, dry balls
Your bunny has a bloody discharge from nose, mouth, eyes, or vent area (bottom)
Your bunny has diarrhea
Your bunny is wheezing, panting, or having difficulty breathing
Your bunny is unconscious
Your bunny shows signs of shock (Rapid breathing and heart rate, pale gums, unresponsive to external stimuli, glazed over eyes, cold ears.)
Your bunny has evidence of a broken bone or a serous wound
It is important to have your vet’s contact information, as well as the contact information for two back-up emergency doctors. Bunnies are infamous for having health issues at 10 o’clock on a Sunday night, so we can’t emphasize the importance of having good backup vets for emergencies.