If you’re the proud owner of a pet rabbit, you know how important it is to keep your furry friend healthy and happy. But what do you need to know about keeping your rabbit healthy?
The fact of the matter is, rabbits are prone to a variety of different health problems and diseases, including coughing.
Contrary to popular belief, rabbits can cough. While the extent varies among breeds, all rabbits are capable of coughing and you must understand the signs so you can provide your pet with proper care should they become ill.
Contents
What Makes a Rabbit Cough?
Just like humans, rabbits can contract respiratory illnesses, such as Pasteurella multocida and bordetella. Additionally, an allergic reaction to something in the environment or their food could also cause a rabbit to cough.
You must pay close attention to your pet if they start coughing, as it could be an early indicator of a more serious health issue. If your rabbit’s coughing persists, it’s best to take them to the vet as soon as possible for a checkup and treatment.
Can a Rabbit Catch a Cold?
Rabbits may not be susceptible to the same common colds that humans are, but they can still contract respiratory illnesses. Unlike humans, rabbits have a different set of lungs and airways that make them more vulnerable to catching airborne viruses and bacteria.
The most effective way for pet owners to keep their rabbits healthy is by ensuring they get regular checkups and vaccinations. Additionally, you should also make sure your rabbit’s living environment is free from dust, moisture, and other irritants that could trigger a reaction or illness.
Rabbits are notorious for shedding fur and kicking hay around, resulting in an excess of dust in the enclosure. To keep your rabbit’s airways clear, you should consider getting a vacuum with a HEPA filter specifically made for pet hair.
Why Is My Rabbit Sneezing?
It’s not uncommon for rabbits to sneeze every once in a while, but if the sneezing becomes excessive or is accompanied by coughing, then it could be an indicator of an infection.
If you notice your rabbit sneezing regularly, it’s best to take them to the vet as it may need antibiotics or other forms of treatment to clear the infection.
By being aware of the signs and symptoms of coughing in rabbits, you can take proactive steps to ensure your pet stays healthy. Regular checkups and preventive measures will help keep your furry friend happy and healthy for many years to come.
Can Rabbits Sneeze from Hay?
Yes, rabbits can sneeze from hay. The dust particles in hay can irritate the nasal passages and trigger a reaction in your rabbit. It’s important to ensure that the hay you use is clean and free of dust or mold.
Weirdly enough, hay fever is a term used quite loosely. Rabbits need hay as their primary food source and removing it from their diet can lead to health complications. That’s why the most effective way of controlling hay fever in rabbits is to reduce the dust levels in their environment by using a HEPA filter, regularly cleaning the enclosure, and providing them with fresh, clean hay.
Overall, it’s important to pay close attention to the signs and symptoms of coughing in rabbits so you can provide them with the best possible care.
Can Rabbits Get Kennel Cough?
As previously mentioned in this blog post, bordetella, commonly known as Kennel Cough, is a respiratory illness that can affect rabbits. The infection is airborne, so it is important to keep your rabbit away from other animals and in an enclosed environment to minimize the risk of contracting the virus.
If your rabbit does develop Kennel Cough, the symptoms include sneezing and coughing. If you notice these signs in your pet, it’s best to take them to the vet right away for treatment.
What Can You Give to A Sick Rabbit?
If your rabbit is coughing or sneezing, you should take them to the vet as soon as possible for a checkup. Depending on the severity of the sickness, they may require antibiotics or other forms of treatment.
In addition to professional medical care, some at-home remedies could help alleviate their symptoms.
If your rabbit isn’t eating or drinking, you need to assist with critical care, meaning that you need to syringe-feed them or provide them with nutrients to fight off their illness. As a rabbit owner, you should always have critical care at home for emergencies!
Conclusion
Finding out if your rabbit is coughing can be a worrying experience. While it’s true that rabbits can contract respiratory illnesses, there are measures you can take to reduce the risk and keep them healthy. Ensure they get regular checkups and vaccinations, keep their environment free from dust and irritants, and always provide them with fresh hay.
Thank you for reading! We hope this blog post helped understand the signs and symptoms of coughing in rabbits, as well as what you can do if your rabbit does get sick.
Happy hopping! 🙂
