Rabbit Bite's Blog » smiley, not a real rabbit doctor (TM)

My bunny has short hair – no need to brush!”

buns and chou chou — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 13:29:09 +0000

Smiley, Oracle of Rabbits ™

This is a common mistake – all bunnies should be brushed! Not only does it help when a rabbit is shedding hair, it also strengthens the bond between bunny and owner. Bunnies are used to being groomed by each other – it’s a mark of respect in most cases. To groom your rabbit is to show them they are boss, but it also allows your bunny to get used to being petted and stroked by you. Shorter haired breeds need less brushing than a longer haired breed, but still need brushing all the same! Remember: rabbits can get fur balls just like cats, but unlike cats they are unable to cough it up and the excess hair that they swallow can cause blockages in their system. You may then find that your bunny cannot eat and they develop a round tummy. A vet should be called if this happens.

Do you have a question for Smiley? Email him at smiley(@)rabbitbites.com

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What do I do about Sticky Bunny Bottoms?

buns and chou chou — Wed, 18 Apr 2007 02:42:37 +0000

Smiley, Oracle Of Rabbits ™, says:
No, not a recipe for a delicious pudding, but a common problem in rabbits with an unhealthy diet. Bunnies are adorable creatures and are most often given treats just for looking cute! Follow the recommendations on the packet or box and if you’re bunny is only allowed 2-3 yoghurt drops a day, it is best to stick to this.

Sometimes, overfeeding a bunny with treats can cause an overproduction in caecotrophs, or gross poops. Sometimes these become dinner believe it or not. Certain types of rabbit mix can also cause this problem. The key is to make sure that your rabbit is getting enough fibre in its diet and plenty of fresh hay and water. If you are feeding your rabbit greens and this occurs, swap this for some carrot or fruit and you may notice a change.

If your bunny is unfortunate enough to already have a sticky bum, then don’t panic. Try sitting the little bun in a basin of warm water (only fill the water deep enough to cover the paws) and let them soak there for a good half hour. This is a good opportunity to stroke them and bond with them. Once your bunny has been given a good soak, the sticky poo residue should have come off in the water. Any more that is left can be removed with a cloth or with your hand if you are giving the bunny a shampoo. Rinse off and towel dry your bunny and be sure to keep an eye on them to make sure the sticky bottom does not re occur. It is best to treat a sticky bottom as soon as you see it – rabbits normally clean themselves expertly, but for various reasons, sometimes they are unable to clean themselves and your aid is needed. Sticky bottoms can attract flies and we don’t want any buns plagued with flystrike ☹
Do you have a question for Smiley? Email him at smiley(@)rabbitbites.com

Smiley’s Corner Rabbit Care!

buns and chou chou — Sat, 14 Apr 2007 13:22:15 +0000

Smiley is coming on board to tidy up this place and bring a little more personality to Rabbit Bites Blog. We welcome her and trust that even though she’s still growing, the kid knows her rabbits. Plus, just look at her, she’s an adorable little bugger and will soon come to you in Carrotvision(tm) videos! Trust Smiley ™ with all of your Rabbit advice.