Rabbit Vets

FINDING A RABBIT-SAVVY VET

Not all veterinarians are rabbit savvy, so it's important to choose a vet that understands how to best care for rabbits. Rabbits are very different from dogs or cats and are considered to be exotic pets by vets. Most veterinary schools do not do extensive education on exotic pets, so it is up to the veterinarian to educate themself on “non-standard” animals they wish to treat.

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The right vet will know exactly how to prevent health issues for your rabbit and will also be able to detect any potential problems early. Having the right vet will prevent you from wasting your money on incorrect care or advice from veterinarians who don't know rabbits. 

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When trying to find the right vet for your bunny, you can ask the vet these questions:

• Do you treat exotic animals? If so, what kind of experience do you have with pet rabbits?

• How often do you see rabbit patients?

• Do you primarily treat "stock" rabbits (raised for breeding, meat or 4-H) or pet rabbits?

  • Knowing this will help you determine how your vet approaches rabbit care.

• Do you regularly spay/neuter rabbits?

• Have you ever had a pet rabbit?

• What kind of diet do you recommend for a rabbit?

  • Their advice should match up with what is recommended here.

  • You should never be told to stop feeding a rabbit before surgery.

• What kind of antibiotics would you prescribe for a sick rabbit?

  • Amoxicillin, lincomycin, clindamycin and oral penicillin are all HARMFUL to rabbits