How to Diagnose a Sick Rabbit

You may not realize it when your rabbit is suffering from an illness. These creatures often hide their symptoms as a way to protect themselves from predators. Examine your rabbit closely to tell if it's sick and to diagnose the possible cause.

Instructions

    • 1

      Note the rabbit's behavior. Changes in its eating habits and personality are usually signs that something is wrong. Record any changes to diagnose the sick rabbit.

    • 2

      Check for signs of an upper respiratory infection. Rabbits are susceptible to colds. Your rabbit may have runny eyes or nose, be prone to sneezing or have difficulty breathing.

    • 3

      Look for signs of drooling. If your rabbit is drooling excessively, it may have a toothache or suffer from misalignment.

    • 4

      Analyze the rabbit's stool. In a healthy rabbit, you should see large pellets. A sick rabbit may produce runny or irregularly shaped feces. These symptoms point to a problem in the rabbit's digestive tract.

    • 5

      Determine if the rabbit is suffering from an ear infection. Note if your rabbit is off balance or tilting its head often.

    • 6

      Call your vet for a definitive diagnosis. Relay your pet's symptoms and share your suspicions based on its behavior and eating habits.