Choosing A Healthy, Happy Rabbit

Always buy your pet from a British Rabbit Council breeder or a reputable pet shop. Consider giving an older rabbit a good home from a charity such as the RSPCA. Never buy a rabbit which is less than eight weeks old; it is too young to be away from its mother. Check the rabbit over to make sure it is in tip top health - the following points will help you:

EYES: Should be bright and clear and not runny or closing.

NOSE: Check the nose is clean with no dried deposits or mucus present.

CHEST: Breathing should be quiet with no 'rattles' if you gently put your ear against the rabbit's chest. Take care not to startle the rabbit when you do this!

EARS: The rabbit's ears should be clean inside.

BODY: Rabbits should be 'well fleshed'; the backbone should not be prominent. Run your hands gently over the rabbit in the direction of the fur and see if the rabbit feels 'nourished'.

COAT: This should be clean and healthy-looking with no tiny white dandruff-like flakes present - unfortunately a sign of mites!

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TEETH: The top teeth should slightly overlap the bottom but take care when examining the rabbit's mouth so not to startle him. There should be no sign of decay.

VENT AREA: This is the correct term for a rabbit's bottom! Have a quick look and make sure that it is clean and shows no sign of dried faeces.

ATTITUDE: Spend some time observing the rabbit. He should appear alert, healthy and interested in his surroundings. If he is sitting hunched in a corner or looks distressed (rabbits have similar emotions to ours) all is not well.

If you are buying your rabbit from a British Rabbit Council Member, they will no doubt be pleased to help you examine the rabbit as it is a skill which you will be able to put in good use for many years to come.

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Remember, if in doubt refer your query to your vet or call The British Rabbit Council for details of their nearest District Advisor on 01636 676042.

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