How to Properly Syringe Feed a Rabbit

If you need to syringe feed a rabbit, it means you have a very young rabbit or a very sick rabbit in need of food. Consequently, incorrect syringe feeding might harm your rabbit by not giving it the adequate amount of food or the proper dose. Additionally, you might inadvertently hurt your bunny as it squirms in your hands. Care for you rabbit with proper feeding and handling techniques, and increase the chances your pet will live a long, healthy life.

Instructions

    • 1

      Wrap the rabbit in the towel much like you would an infant in swaddling clothes.

    • 2

      Grip the rabbit by the nape of the neck, laying it backwards at an approximate 45-degree angle. Cradling it like an infant while gently pinching the back of the neck will keep it relatively immobile.

    • 3

      Insert the tip of the syringe to the right or left of the rabbit's front incisors (teeth).

    • 4

      Position the tip beneath the rabbit's tongue, depressing the syringe and injecting the medicine or food as you hold the head upright. Ensure you depress the syringe slowly enough so the rabbit can swallow the liquid. If you press too quickly, it will lap at the food or medicine or spit it out, spilling most it.