Why has my rabbit lost a lot of weight?
The most common reason for weight loss is decreased appetite and, thus, a reduced intake of calories. This is generally due to disease, including dental, gastrointestinal, cardiovascular, musculoskeletal (arthritis of joints or the spine), metabolic (liver, pancreas, or kidney), and cancer.
Is it normal for rabbits to lose weight?
Weight loss can occur in rabbits, but when they lose 10 percent or more of their normal body weight it becomes a major concern — no longer an issue of decrease in fluid weight. It is especially worrisome when the weight loss accompanies muscle atrophy (or the wasting away of muscle mass).
How can I tell if my rabbit is losing weight?
Symptoms of Loss of Weight and Muscle in Rabbits. In cases of weight loss, the first symptom is usually a noticeably lighter pet. As the reason for weight loss is usually pain associated with an underlying health condition you may notice other signs of pain such as tooth grinding, hunching, depression and a reluctance to be stroked.
What causes rabbits to lose weight and muscle?
Loss of weight and muscle in rabbits is often a symptom of a chronic underlying disease or condition. Parasitic infestation, congestive heart failure, and environment are just a few of the causes for this condition. Protect yourself and your pet. Compare top pet insurance plans.
What should I Feed my rabbits to help them lose weight?
In addition, a diet that is primarily composed of fresh vegetable greens instead of grass hay can be very dangerous because the greens have fewer calories, due to high water content. This will lead to unhealthy weight loss. Rabbits should always be fed a diet that is primarily grass hay, offered in unlimited amounts.
Why does my rabbit have a lot of hair loss?
You may also notice general hair loss throughout your rabbit’s body. In many cases your rabbit will feel a lot of itching, leading to his discomfort. As hair loss is likely pointing to an underlying condition, a trip to the veterinarian is in order. Hair loss in rabbits, also called alopecia, can be caused by a variety of possible problems.
Why is my rabbit losing so much weight?
If you’re concerned about your rabbit losing weight, there can be many different causes. If your rabbit has lost 10 percent or more of their regular bodyweight, this can be a reason to speak to your veterinarian. For the most part, the most common reason your rabbit is losing weight is that their appetite has decreased.
What to do if your rabbit is losing balance?
The first thing you should do is always take your rabbit to the vet. Your vet will find the underlying cause of the head tilt and losing balance, which will lead to the correct treatment options. Some rabbits will never fully recover from head tilt, so it’s important to accommodate and help your rabbit if he is struggling.
What should I Feed my Rabbit to help him lose weight?
An underweight rabbit should eat more food to make up for their weight loss. Throughout their life, whether they’re overweight or underweight, a rabbit should be on an 80-85% diet of hay. The rest of their diet should be a mix of leafy greens and fruit.
Is it bad for an older rabbit to be too thin?
Not all older rabbits are too thin. Like some people, older rabbits can also have trouble with obesity. Carrying extra weight is very hard on arthritic joints and can cause or intensify other health problems such as heart and digestive problems. Discuss your rabbit’s ideal weight with your veterinarian and work to achieve and maintain it.
