Q&A for How to Pet a Rabbit

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Question

My rabbit runs away a lot. Is there anything I can do?

Pippa Elliott, MRCVS
Veterinarian
Dr. Elliott, BVMS, MRCVS is a veterinarian with over 30 years of experience in veterinary surgery and companion animal practice. She graduated from the University of Glasgow in 1987 with a degree in veterinary medicine and surgery. She has worked at the same animal clinic in her hometown for over 20 years.

Pippa Elliott, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Expert Answer

As a prey species, if a rabbit feels threatened then they will run away from the danger. Don't try to stop the rabbit from fleeing as this will only add to their stress and anxiety. Instead, spend time sitting quietly beside the hutch so the rabbit gets used to your presence. From time to time post tasty treats into the hutch so the rabbit links you to good things. Be prepared for the long haul and do this a couple of times a day for as long as it takes.

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Question

My rabbit doesn't drink water. He's a year old now and has never drunk water. Should I be worried?

Pippa Elliott, MRCVS
Veterinarian
Dr. Elliott, BVMS, MRCVS is a veterinarian with over 30 years of experience in veterinary surgery and companion animal practice. She graduated from the University of Glasgow in 1987 with a degree in veterinary medicine and surgery. She has worked at the same animal clinic in her hometown for over 20 years.

Pippa Elliott, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Expert Answer

If your rabbit gets fresh fruit and veg, or eats fresh growing grass then he's getting fluid from these sources. As he's a healthy one-year-old rabbit you don't need to worry; however, make sure he always has access to fresh water just in case.

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Question

Why does my rabbit thump his back feet?

Pippa Elliott, MRCVS
Veterinarian
Dr. Elliott, BVMS, MRCVS is a veterinarian with over 30 years of experience in veterinary surgery and companion animal practice. She graduated from the University of Glasgow in 1987 with a degree in veterinary medicine and surgery. She has worked at the same animal clinic in her hometown for over 20 years.

Pippa Elliott, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Expert Answer

Thumping the ground with a back foot is a rabbit's way of alerting others in the warren of danger. It is a rabbit way of signalling, "Watch out!"

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Question

Can I bath my rabbit, and if so, how?

Pippa Elliott, MRCVS
Veterinarian
Dr. Elliott, BVMS, MRCVS is a veterinarian with over 30 years of experience in veterinary surgery and companion animal practice. She graduated from the University of Glasgow in 1987 with a degree in veterinary medicine and surgery. She has worked at the same animal clinic in her hometown for over 20 years.

Pippa Elliott, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Expert Answer

Rabbits are prone to panic when bathed, as they can't lift their heads up. Their faces are very close to the water, which makes them fearful of drowning. Also, they are prone to chilling, so use warm water and towel-dry them well. Bathe the rabbit in a large plastic bowl, and put a book under one end to create a deep and a shallow end. Put the rabbit's head at the shallow end, and then scoop water gently over his body.

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