Rabbits have a way of keeping us guessing. One day, everything feels perfectly routine; their appetite is strong, grooming is normal, and the litter box looks just as it should. Then one small change can leave you wondering: Is this normal, or is it something I should be concerned about?
Finding clear, trustworthy answers to rabbit care questions isn’t always easy. That’s why we teamed up with exotic veterinarian Dr. Lyle Cleary to help answer real questions submitted by rabbit parents and to provide expert insight into some of the health and care concerns that matter most.
In this video, Dr. Cleary shares practical veterinary guidance to help rabbit parents better understand their pets, recognize potential concerns, and make more informed care decisions. Watch the full video below for expert insight into your rabbit’s needs, important changes to watch for, and when it may be time to take a closer look.
What You’ll Learn
You’ll learn more about:
- Rabbit health and wellness: What to watch for and when changes may warrant a call to your veterinarian.
- Diet and nutrition: How everyday feeding choices can support your rabbit’s overall health.
- Behavior: What your bunny’s behavior may be telling you and how to spot important changes.
- Grooming and routine care: Helpful guidance for keeping your rabbit comfortable, clean, and well cared for.
- Housing and environment: Considerations for creating a safe, spacious living space with hide-out homes for your rabbit.
- Common rabbit care questions: Expert answers to concerns that come up for both new and experienced rabbit parents.
Key Takeaways
Caring for a rabbit means noticing the little things, because everyday choices around diet, grooming, behavior, and environment can have a meaningful impact on their health and quality of life.
Every bunny has their own "normal" and learning what that looks like can make it easier to recognize when something changes. Knowing what to watch for and when it’s time to contact a rabbit-savvy veterinarian can help you make more confident, informed decisions about their care.
Here are some important takeaways from our conversation with Dr. Cleary:
- Small changes can matter. It’s important to monitor your rabbit closely, as sudden changes in eating, activity, behavior, or bathroom habits can be an early sign that something is wrong and may require quick veterinary attention.
- A proper diet is essential to rabbit health. Consistent access to high-quality hay and a balanced feeding routine helps support digestion, dental health, and overall wellness.
- Rabbit behavior can tell you a lot. Learning your bunny’s normal habits and body language can make it easier to notice when something feels off.
- Routine grooming is part of good rabbit care. Brushing, nail trims, and regular checks can help keep your rabbit comfortable and healthy.
- A safe, enriching environment supports overall well-being. Rabbits need enough space, appropriate housing, and opportunities to move, explore, and stay mentally stimulated.
- When in doubt, ask a rabbit-savvy veterinarian. Online information can be helpful, but an experienced exotic vet is the best resource for concerns specific to your rabbit.
Video Timestamps
- 00:00 Introduction
- 02:03 Select Care for Rabbits
- 02:33 Heading to the Vet
- 02:49 Best Ways to Help Older Rabbits Gain Weight
- 05:52 Hay and Teeth Wear for Rabbits?
- 07:53 How to Handle Rabbits that HATE Being Brushed?
- 09:48 How Often You Should Change Paper Bedding
Related Care Resources
- Rabbits 101: Care Resource Guide
- Rabbit Behavior Explained: Why They Thump, Flop, and Zoom
- Understanding Fiber: The Key to Your Rabbit & Guinea Pig’s Health
