Q&A for How to Understand Your Rabbit

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What can cause my rabbits left leg to sometimes be paralyzed and shaky?

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

There could be several explanations such as joint pain (arthritis), muscular spasm, a nerve problem such as pressure from a slipped disc, or even an infection (such as E. cunicul) which infects the central nervous system and interferes with nerve transmission. If the problem persists then it's best to get the rabbit checked by a vet.

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Question

How can I tell if my rabbit is hurt or injured?

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

This is a good question because rabbits are expert at hiding when they are injured. This is a survival mechanism to reduce the risk of a predator spotting they are weakened and preying on them. A sick or injured rabbit often stops eating or only nibbles, this means a reduced number of pellets and weight loss. In addition, she is likely to be very quiet and withdrawn, perhaps staying in one corner in a hunched up posture. If you are unsure, monitor how much food she eats, and if it is reduced, then it's likely there is a problem.

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Question

Can a brother and sister rabbit mate?

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

Brother and sister rabbits can and will mate if allowed to do so, but this is a bad idea. The resulting kits are much less likely to be strong and healthy.

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Question

How old do rabbits have to be to have babies?

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

Female rabbits (does) can become pregnant as young as three months old; however, this is not advisable. Ideally the female should be six months at the youngest, so her body gets a chance to develop properly.

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