Rabbits are sensitive animals, and while they can live long, healthy lives, they are also prone to certain illnesses. Many rabbit health problems are preventable with proper diet, housing, and care. In this guide, we’ll cover the most common rabbit illnesses, their symptoms, and prevention tips. You’ll also learn about essential housing and feeding practices to keep your rabbits safe. And remember—healthy housing is just as important as food, so check with the Rabbit Cage Size Calculator to make sure your rabbits have the space they need to thrive.
Quick List of Common Rabbit Illnesses
- Gastrointestinal Stasis (GI Stasis): A life-threatening slowdown of the digestive system.
- Respiratory Infections (Snuffles): Caused by bacteria, often Pasteurella multocida.
- Dental Disease: Overgrown teeth from lack of hay and chewing.
- Ear Mites: Parasites causing itching, crusty ears, and discomfort.
- Flystrike: A dangerous condition where flies lay eggs on rabbits, leading to maggots.
- Uterine Cancer: Common in unspayed female rabbits.
- Rabbit Hemorrhagic Disease Virus (RHDV): A fatal viral disease in some regions.
Symptoms to Watch For
Because rabbits hide illness well (a survival instinct as prey animals), it’s important to watch closely for signs of sickness:
- Sudden loss of appetite or refusal to eat
- Small, misshapen, or no droppings
- Runny nose, sneezing, watery eyes
- Excessive scratching or hair loss
- Lethargy or sitting hunched
- Grinding teeth (a sign of pain)
- Wetness around tail (possible urinary issue)
If you see these symptoms, contact a rabbit-savvy veterinarian immediately.
Preventing Rabbit Illnesses
Prevention is always better than treatment. Here’s how to keep your rabbits healthy:
- Proper Diet: Feed 80% hay, 15% leafy greens, and 5% pellets. Avoid sugary treats.
- Clean Housing: Remove waste daily and disinfect hutches regularly.
- Safe Housing: Use predator-proof hutches and avoid overcrowding. Use the Cage Size Calculator to ensure enough room.
- Regular Vet Care: Annual check-ups and vaccinations where available.
- Spaying/Neutering: Prevents reproductive cancers and reduces stress-related issues.
- Parasite Prevention: Keep hutches dry to reduce flystrike, and treat mites promptly.
Best Products to Support Rabbit Health
Oxbow Western Timothy Hay
Why it matters: Hay is essential for digestion and dental health, preventing GI stasis and overgrown teeth.
- Pros: Fresh, high-fiber, vet-recommended.
- Cons: Slightly more expensive than bulk hays.
Oxbow Essentials Adult Rabbit Pellets
Why it matters: Balanced pellets support immune health when fed alongside hay.
- Pros: Timothy-based, fortified, prevents nutritional gaps.
- Cons: Should be limited to avoid obesity.
Aivituvin XL Indoor/Outdoor Hutch
Why it matters: Safe, spacious housing prevents stress and overcrowding, reducing illness risk.
- Pros: Large, easy to clean, predator-proof.
- Cons: Requires space and assembly.
Manna Pro Rabbit Pellets
Why it matters: Affordable nutrition option for large households.
- Pros: Budget-friendly, fortified, available in bulk.
- Cons: Not as premium as Oxbow or Sherwood.
Lixit Wide-Mouth Water Bottle
Why it matters: Clean water prevents dehydration, a leading cause of digestive problems.
- Pros: Durable, easy to clean, large capacity.
- Cons: Needs secure mounting.
Small Pet Select Fresh Hay
Why it matters: Encourages chewing, reduces risk of dental problems and GI issues.
- Pros: Premium quality, fresh, high-fiber.
- Cons: Higher price point.
Comparison Table
| Product | Main Benefit | Best For | Link |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oxbow Timothy Hay | Digestive & dental health | All rabbits | See Price |
| Oxbow Pellets | Balanced daily nutrition | Adult rabbits | See Price |
| Aivituvin Hutch | Spacious, secure housing | Indoor/outdoor use | See Price |
| Manna Pro Pellets | Budget rabbit feed | Multi-rabbit households | See Price |
| Lixit Water Bottle | Fresh hydration | All rabbits | See Price |
| Small Pet Select Hay | Dental & digestive support | Picky rabbits | See Price |
FAQ
What’s the most common rabbit illness?
GI stasis is the most common and dangerous illness. It often results from too little hay, stress, or dehydration.
Can indoor rabbits still get sick?
Yes. While indoor rabbits are safer from predators and weather, they can still develop dental issues, infections, and digestive problems if not cared for properly.
How often should rabbits see a vet?
At least once a year for a check-up, and immediately if any symptoms of illness appear.
What’s the best way to prevent illness?
A hay-rich diet, spacious clean housing, fresh water, and regular veterinary care. Use the Cage Size Calculator to prevent overcrowding and stress.
Conclusion
Rabbits can be prone to illness, but most health problems are preventable with the right care. By providing a hay-based diet, secure housing, fresh water, and regular veterinary check-ups, you’ll greatly reduce the risk of common rabbit illnesses. Recognizing early symptoms and acting quickly is also essential, since rabbits hide sickness until it becomes severe.
👉 Don’t forget: overcrowding and poor housing are major causes of stress-related illness. Use the Rabbit Cage Size Calculator before setting up a hutch or enclosure to give your rabbits the healthy, stress-free environment they deserve.
Take action today: Keep your rabbits safe from illness with the right diet, housing, and preventive care. Healthy rabbits are happy rabbits.