Bunnies hide illnesses well as they are afraid to be left out of the group. Therefore you should always pay close attention for possible health issues!
Daily Check:
• Is every bunny there for feeding time?
• Are they alert and interested in their surroundings?
• Do they move normally and are they active?
When a bunny appears different or if you encounter signs of disease while doing the health check, a visit to the vet is vital - we do not recommend to wait for answers in forums or to try to treat your bunnies yourself!
Weekly Check:
• Their weight. A big change in their weight points to an illness (teeth problems, infections, stress).
• Search their fur for bald or scabbed spots. If you find any it points to mites or fungus infestation. Bunnies shed their fur at least twice a year if not more often. Shedding a lot is normal then but never should you find bald spots.
• Their eyes. Are they clean and clear? (Never clean their eyes with chamomile, it will dry them out and cause infection.)
• Their incisors. They must be in the right ankle so that they can wear off properly.
• Their lips. Do they have scabbed sports? It could be lip scurf, often a deficiency symptom.
• Their nails. Are they too long, they have to be trimmed. Younger bunnies typically need a trim more often like every other month. Some older bunnies only need a trim about 3 times a year. If you do it for the first time please have your rabbit savvy vet show you how so you don't cut into their quick.
• Are the ears clean and without scalls? There are so called ear mites that only settle inside the ears causing scabs and wounds from itching.
• Are the genitals clean? If it is dirty or clotted the bunny could have diarrhea. Pay careful attention! Is the bunny eating and appearing normal? If not a visit to the vet is a must ASAP!