Why does my bunny keep grinding his teeth?
Rabbits tend to quietly grind the front teeth when they are happy and relaxed (similar to a cat’s purr), and when they wear down their front teeth (to keep them the right size and shape). This type of grinding is common when you stroke a rabbit that is extremely relaxed.
What does it mean when a rabbit grinds its teeth?
Often, tooth grinding in a rabbit is a sign of pain, stress or illness. However, some softer, quiet forms of tooth grinding can indicate happiness/being relaxed or even be a natural behaviour to ensure the teeth stay the right length.
What to do if your rabbit has a tooth problem?
See your vet. Left untreated, tooth problems can lead to infection of the jaw bone, which is very difficult to treat. Depending on the severity of the misalignment, your rabbit’s teeth may need to be trimmed regularly. In severe cases, teeth can be pulled.
How can you tell if a rabbit is in pain?
Listen for tooth grinding. Your rabbit will often make a soft, grinding sound with its teeth when it is happy. However, if the sound is louder than normal it could be a bad sign. Often this is an indication that your rabbit is in pain.
What happens if a rabbit’s teeth are left untreated?
Left untreated, tooth problems can lead to infection of the jaw bone, which is very difficult to treat. Depending on the severity of the misalignment, your rabbit’s teeth may need to be trimmed regularly.
What does it mean when a rabbit grinds her teeth?
A rabbit gently chattering her teeth is a sign of enjoyment, which suggests that your rabbit is relaxed and happy. Loudly grinding her teeth isn’t an encouraging sign, though. Teeth grinding in rabbits is usually a sign of pain. If your rabbit grinds her teeth and is shaking, she is in significant discomfort.
What does it mean when a rabbit’s teeth chatter?
However, rabbits also chatter their teeth when they’re in pain or are stressed. This type of chattering is called teeth grinding and is often louder and more spaced out. The sight of your rabbit’s teeth chattering can be simultaneously appealing and concerning.
What does it mean when a rabbit is in pain?
If your rabbit is in pain he will likely be displaying other clues of his discomfort. These clues might include his body appearing tense, his ears may feel cold, he may be disinterested in food or interaction (possibly moving away if you go too close) and he may even show an uncharacteristic level of aggression towards you.
What happens when a bunny has gastrointestinal stasis?
The bunny may become lethargic, have no appetite and may hunch in a ball, loudly crunching his teeth in pain. Sometimes, a rabbit suffering from GI stasis is diagnosed as having a “hairball.”
