Is My Rabbit Having An Emergency?

The biggest indicator that your rabbit needs emergency medical care is a loss of appetite and lethargy.

Every rabbit has lower-energy days now and then, but if your rabbit refuses their usual fresh food — or their favorite treats — and seems particularly lethargic, you should call your rabbit’s veterinarian right away. We encourage you to observe your rabbit’s behavior, activity level, and droppings daily. Each rabbit is different and knowing what is normal behavior for your rabbit could save his life.

Other signs of emergency include:

• Loss of balance

• Head tilt

• Seizure(s) 

• Fever or low body temperature (healthy ears should be warm to the touch)

• Audible tooth grinding and pained posture

• Breathing through the mouth

• Bleeding or open wound (big or small)

• Broken bone or significant fall (rabbits have delicate bones)

• Diarrhea

• Blood in urine

• Severely distended stomach (bloat)

• Ingestion of something poisonous to rabbits

• If your rabbit is in noticeable pain of any kind, consider this an emergency

If your rabbit is experiencing any of these symptoms, you need to call their veterinarian and the nearest rabbit-savvy emergency medical care provider as soon as possible. Please refer to our San Diego veterinarian list to find a provider near you.