Health Care
Probably one of the most important subjects when owning a rabbit(s) is Health Care. Rabbits are pretty simple animals to care for however they still do have regular needs and sometimes do need care. Throughout this topic, I will post what I do with my own herd to manage their health but note, everyone does things differently and this page is in no way telling you to avoid seeking an exotic veterinarian. If you feel uncomfortable treating your own herd, please located a good, reputable veterinarian that specializes in rabbits.
Routine Needs
Safe-Guard DewormerSafe-Guard Dewormer is a suspension wormer (100mg/mL). I deworm my herd twice a year using this dewormer. This is the same strength and product that a vet will give you. You may purchase this product at any ag store including Tractor Supply. I give it at a rate of .2cc per pound once and again two weeks later, orally. This dewormer can also be used to treat wry neck (once daily for 30 days).
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CoridCorid is used to treat Coccidiosis. I often treat my herd with Corid twice year, spring and fall. Coccidiosis is very common and a very serious disease that can lead to death in rabbits if not treated. Some of the common signs are jelly like poop, diarrhea, fever, lack of appetite, fading or weight loss, emaciation and death. Coccidiosis is highly contagious so it is important to treat your entire herd. I treat my herd using one teaspoon per gallon, for five days on, five days off and a final treatment for five days. Keep in mind, the old must be dumped daily and fresh mixed and supplied in order for treatment to be successful.
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Other supplies to keep on hand
RevolutionFur mites can become an issue at any given time, especially if your rabbitry is "indoors". Fur mites can be obtained from a show, new additions, etc. Treating with "Revolution" (available from your vet) applied once monthly for two months will usually eradicate mites will effectively deworming your rabbit as well. I apply .025cc per pound administered topically between the shoulder blades. Revolution's shelf life is forever. In order to apply, simply draw up the solution using a 1cc syringe, removing the needle tip. Each administration must be by weight in order to treat successfully.
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TerramycinTerramycin is an ointment that is great to keep on hand for nestbox eye, wounds or scratches to the eye and more. It can treat infections due to oxytetracyline and polymyxin organisms such as pink eye, corneal ulcers, secondary bacterial complications and bacterial inflammatory conditions.
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Critical CareCritical Care is a supplement that acts as a replacement for pellets and provides nutrients. I use this for a rabbit under stress who has stopped eating. You must give this orally according to the directions.
An alternative to Critical Care if you need it in an emergency and do not have access to it easily is to grind pellets in a coffee grinder on the finest setting, then mix with waterm Nutra-Cal and a prebiotic. Cut the tip off of a syringe to make feeding easier. |
TumsTums is used to prevent pregnant does that is lacking in calcium from developing "milk fever", before or after kindling. Does can also develop seizures or hay fever which can be fatal. I feed my does one Tums twice daily from day 28 of gestation to 3 days after kindling. I often just give them it as they love it. If your does don't like it, you can cut them into pieces and place it in the food dish or grind them up, mix with water and give orally. I recommend the berry flavor.
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Bene-BacBene-Bac Plus is a concentrated blend of seven naturally occurring microorganisms found in the intestinal tract. Newborns have no bacteria in their GI tract at birth and inoculation typically comes from nursing. Bene-Bac is also beneficial to help animals under stress, a change in diet or who are on antibiotics.
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Dura-PenDura-Pen is an antibiotic that is often used to treat abscesses, open wounds and other suspected forms of bacterial infections. This antibiotic is especially great to use to treat Vent Disease. I give .2cc per pound, under the skin, daily for three to five days. This injection is very strong so it is recommended that you follow up with a probiotic. Do not give to nursing does or kits under 14 weeks of age.
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