Are you the proud owner of a pet rabbit? If so, you probably know the joy and companionship these adorable creatures can bring. However, like any pet, rabbits require regular care and grooming to stay healthy and happy. Today, we’re going to dive into the benefits of regular rabbit grooming, and why it’s a must for every rabbit owner. For the sake of terminology, it should be noted that Rex rabbits and Mini-Rex rabbits have thicker, shorter, denser fur coats than other species.
Health Benefits of Rabbit Grooming
One of the main reasons to groom your rabbit regularly is to maintain their overall health. Grooming can help prevent some health issues, such as hairballs and parasites. Unlike cats, rabbits cannot vomit, meaning hairballs can continue to accumulate and can cause serious intestinal discomfort or even blockages. Regular grooming, especially brushing, can help reduce the amount of hair your rabbit ingests while grooming. Long-haired rabbits, such as purebred Angora rabbits and mixes, require daily combing or brushing to prevent mat formation.
Parasites, such as fleas, lice or mites, can also be found during grooming. These can cause a lot of discomfort for your rabbit, so early detection and treatment is important.
A rabbit’s toenails are constantly growing. Regular trimming will prevent toenails from getting caught on clothing, carpets or toys. Long toenails are also uncomfortable for family members because rabbits can scratch or kick when they don’t want to play.
Aesthetic Benefits of Rabbit Grooming
In addition to the health benefits, grooming keeps your rabbit looking good. Regular brushing ensures their coat remains smooth and mat-free, while nail trimming prevents overgrowth and related problems. The arrangement also provides time for bonding with family members. Plus, a clean bunny is a happy bunny.
How to Groom Your Rabbit at Home
Essential Tools for Rabbit Grooming at Home
For grooming at home, you’ll need a rabbit-safe brush, a rabbit/feline nail trimmer, and possibly some mild, rabbit-safe shampoo to help clean dirty feet or undersides. ROUTINE BATHING IS PROHIBITED, as rabbits generally do not like baths and may injure themselves or you during bath fights. We use brushes or combs designed for cats and gloves with rubber tips to help remove loose hair as we comb the coat. Feline nail trimmers work very well for most rabbits, but a standard dog nail trimmer may be necessary for larger breeds of rabbits such as New Zealand, Flemish Giants and English Lops.
Important Steps to Grooming Your Rabbit
To groom your rabbit, start by gently brushing their fur to remove loose hair. Be sure to check for any signs of parasites or skin issues. Then, proceed to trim the nail. If you are not sure how to do this, ask a professional for advice to avoid hurting your rabbit.
Our Rabbit Grooming Service
While grooming at home is important, more intensive or professional grooming services can provide a more intensive health-focused session for your rabbit. Rabbit skin is very thin. It is never recommended to try and cut the rabbit’s hair or remove mats with scissors.
What to Expect from a Professional Grooming Session
At the Avian and Exotic Animal Hospital of Louisiana, our rabbit grooming services include a comprehensive health examination, coat brushing and nail trimming by our veterinary technical staff, ear cleaning, and examination of mites. Rabbits with mats of hair/fur, often require sedation to safely comb or remove the mats.
We offer expert care for your rabbit. With a team of experienced and passionate professionals, we understand the unique needs of exotic pets, and we are committed to ensuring that your rabbit’s grooming experience is stress-free and beneficial to their health.
Ready to reap the benefits of professional rabbit grooming? Call us today at (504) 455-6386 to make an appointment or for more information. Your rabbit deserves the best care, and we’re here to provide it!
