How to Treat a Rabbit Bite

Most people think of rabbits as cute, cuddly animals that are nonthreatening. However, there are times when a rabbit will bite, even a pet rabbit. Any animal with teeth has the potential to bite. Learning the reasons for the biting will help the pet owner control and stop the biting behavior. Any pet owner should understand how to treat a wound if the animal bites, and rabbit bites are no exception.

  1. Why Rabbits Bite

    • There are times when rabbits display aggressive behaviors. Rabbits can bite, kick and move fast, which can scare people. Rabbits have excellent long-distance vision, but their near vision is limited. A person's hand could seem like a sign of aggression if put too close to a rabbit's face. Rabbits can also be very territorial, and trying to get the rabbit out of a cage can seem threatening. A rabbit might bite because it feels threatened or scared.

    Managing Rabbit Bites

    • Biting is a behavioral problem in rabbits.

      A rabbit will circle a person or other animal and bite, often because of sexual frustration. It can develop into a bad habit if not controlled. Having male rabbits neutered and females spayed should reduce the biting behaviors. Rabbits are not born to be mean, so biting and other aggressive behavior are not from nature but from a behavioral problem. Learning how to handle a rabbit correctly can end aggressive behaviors. Swatting a rabbit with newspaper could actually make the problem worse.

    Treating Rabbit Bites

    • Rabbit bites should be treated just like any other animal bite. According to the Oklahoma State Department of Health, Acute Disease Service, you should wash the bite wound thoroughly with soap and water. Place a clean dressing on the wound. If the bite is caused by a rodent such as a rabbit, hamster, gerbil or mouse, no further action is required, because those animals have a low likelihood of carrying disease or rabies.

    Caring for a Rabbit Bite

    • Like any other rodent bite, a rabbit bite could result in bruising; blue or yellow discoloration of the skin is normal. Some swelling can also occur. If you have been bitten and have not had a tetanus shot within the past five years, contact a doctor. If the wound looks like it is becoming infected or if the rabbit that bit you was not a household pet, you should also contact the doctor.