How to Detect Tapeworms in Rabbits

Tapeworms are fairly common in wild rabbits and relatively rare in domestic rabbits, but it is still possible for your rabbit to contract a case of these parasites. Domestic rabbits are more at risk for tapeworms if they are allowed to play outside. Tapeworms can cause great distress to rabbits and in severe cases, they can even kill them. If you are concerned about your rabbit contracting tapeworms, be aware of the signs of these parasitic invaders.

Things You'll Need

  • Scale
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Instructions

    • 1

      Weigh the rabbit on the scale. If it is losing weight despite maintaining a normal appetite, tapeworms may be the problem.

    • 2

      Watch for signs of constipation and diarrhea. Tapeworms live in the rabbit's digestive tract, and they disrupt its ability to process food. Both diarrhea and constipation are signs of tapeworms.

    • 3

      Inspect the rabbit's feces. Tapeworms reproduce by shedding body segments known as proglottis, and these are found in the infected animal's feces. They are small, pale shreds that are embedded in the rabbit's droppings.

    • 4

      Look at the rabbit's anus. Occasionally, one dangling end of the tapeworm will protrude from the rabbit's anus.