Rabbit Care Advice for Canterbury Owners
Rabbits are intelligent, social and sensitive pets, and with the right care they can make wonderful companions for families across Canterbury, Whitstable, Herne Bay and Sturry. Although rabbits are often seen as low-maintenance pets, they actually need daily attention, the correct diet, suitable housing and regular veterinary care to stay healthy.
At Canterbury Vets, we know that rabbit owners want clear, practical advice they can trust. In this guide, we share some essential exotic pet tips to help you keep your rabbit happy and well, from feeding and housing to spotting early signs of illness and knowing when to see a vet.
This article is intended for general guidance only. If your pet is unwell or showing concerning symptoms, please contact your vet for professional advice.
Why rabbit care is different
Rabbits are prey animals, which means they are very good at hiding signs of pain or illness. By the time symptoms become obvious, they may already be quite unwell. This is one reason why preventative care and early symptom awareness are so important.
Rabbits also have very specific needs. Their teeth grow continuously, their digestive system depends on a high-fibre diet, and they need enough space and enrichment to exercise both body and mind. Caring for rabbits well means looking at the whole picture, not just food and shelter.
What should rabbits eat?
A healthy rabbit diet is one of the most important parts of good rabbit care. Feeding the wrong diet can lead to dental disease, weight problems and gut issues.
The basics of a healthy rabbit diet
- Hay should make up the majority of the diet – around 85 to 90 per cent. Good-quality feeding hay should be available at all times.
- Fresh leafy greens should be offered daily. This can include suitable herbs and rabbit-safe vegetables.
- Rabbit nuggets should be fed in small measured amounts. A good-quality nugget is usually better than a mixed muesli-style feed, as it helps prevent selective feeding.
- Fresh water should always be available, ideally in a bowl and changed daily.
Foods to avoid
Rabbits should not be given large amounts of sugary treats, cereal-based mixes or unsuitable human foods. These can upset the balance of the gut and contribute to obesity or digestive problems.
If you are unsure whether your rabbit’s diet is balanced, our team can help through our health checks and clinics.
Housing and exercise needs
Rabbits need far more space than many people expect. A small hutch alone is not enough. They need room to stand fully upright, stretch out, hop, run and explore.
Creating the right environment
- Provide a secure sleeping area that is dry, sheltered and well ventilated.
- Make sure there is constant access to a larger run or exercise area.
- Use safe bedding and keep the environment clean.
- Offer places to hide, such as tunnels or boxes, so your rabbit feels safe.
- Include enrichment such as chew toys, digging areas and platforms.
Rabbits are social animals and usually do best in compatible pairs or groups rather than living alone. If you are thinking about introducing another rabbit, it is worth getting advice on safe bonding and neutering first.
Common rabbit health problems owners should know about
One of the best things owners can do is learn the early signs that something may be wrong. Rabbits can deteriorate quickly, so prompt attention matters.
Dental problems
Because rabbit teeth grow continuously, poor tooth wear can lead to overgrown teeth, mouth pain and difficulty eating. Signs may include:
- Dropping food
- Eating less hay
- Weight loss
- Wetness around the mouth
- Swelling around the jaw or eyes
Gut stasis
Gut stasis is a serious condition where the digestive system slows down or stops moving properly. It can happen for several reasons, including pain, stress, dehydration or an unsuitable diet.
Warning signs include:
- Not eating
- Smaller droppings or no droppings
- Lethargy
- Hunched posture
- A bloated or uncomfortable tummy
If your rabbit is not eating or passing droppings, this is urgent and you should seek veterinary advice straight away. You can find our contact details on our find us page.
Flystrike
Flystrike happens when flies lay eggs on a rabbit, usually around the back end, and the resulting maggots cause severe damage. This is a particular risk in warmer weather and in rabbits who are overweight, elderly or unable to keep themselves clean properly.
Check your rabbit daily, especially during summer. If you notice soiling, discomfort, maggots or a sudden collapse, contact a vet immediately.
Respiratory illness
Sneezing, noisy breathing, discharge from the nose or eyes, or reduced energy can all suggest a respiratory problem. These symptoms should always be checked by a vet, as rabbits can become unwell quickly.
Preventative care for rabbits
Preventative healthcare plays a key role in keeping rabbits well and catching issues early. Regular vet visits can help us assess your rabbit’s teeth, weight, body condition and general health before small concerns become larger problems.
Vaccinations and routine checks
Rabbits need vaccinations to help protect them from serious infectious diseases. They also benefit from regular health checks, even if they seem well at home. Preventative care can include:
- Annual vaccinations
- Routine health examinations
- Weight monitoring
- Dental checks
- Parasite advice where needed
- Neutering advice
You can read more about our approach to preventative healthcare on our website.
Bunny VIP for ongoing rabbit care
For many owners, spreading the cost of routine rabbit care can be helpful. Our Bunny VIP plan is designed to support preventative healthcare and make it easier to stay on top of your rabbit’s essential routine needs.
If you are looking for practical support with rabbit vaccinations, regular checks and ongoing wellbeing, Bunny VIP is well worth exploring.
Signs your rabbit should see a vet
It is always safer to get rabbits checked sooner rather than later. Please contact your vet if your rabbit shows any of the following signs:
- Not eating or drinking
- Passing fewer droppings or no droppings
- Lethargy or hiding more than usual
- Difficulty breathing
- Head tilt or loss of balance
- Swelling, wounds or limping
- Diarrhoea or a dirty back end
- Sudden weight loss
- Changes in behaviour
If you are concerned, you can book an appointment online or contact us directly for advice.
Helping rabbits feel safe at home
Rabbits thrive in calm, predictable environments. Stress can affect both behaviour and health, so it helps to keep handling gentle and routines consistent.
Simple ways to support rabbit wellbeing
- Handle rabbits carefully and only when needed
- Allow them time to explore safely outside their enclosure each day
- Provide toys and enrichment to prevent boredom
- Keep them with a compatible rabbit companion where possible
- Monitor appetite, droppings and behaviour daily
Even small changes in routine can be meaningful in rabbits, so getting to know what is normal for your pet is an important part of ownership.
Support for rabbit owners in Canterbury
Whether you are a first-time rabbit owner or have cared for rabbits for years, it is always helpful to have trusted local support. At Canterbury Vets, we are here to help owners across Canterbury and the surrounding areas with practical advice, preventative care and prompt treatment when needed.
If your rabbit is new to the family, you can also register your pet with us online. If you would like to learn more about our team and values, visit our about us page.
Final thoughts
Good rabbit care starts with the basics: the right diet, enough space, regular checks and quick action if something seems wrong. Because rabbits often hide illness, early symptom awareness can make a real difference.
If you would like advice on rabbit health, preventative care or whether our Bunny VIP plan may suit your pet, we would be happy to help. To arrange a visit, please book online or contact Canterbury Vets today.
From all of us at Canterbury Vets, we are proud to support rabbit owners across Canterbury, Whitstable, Herne Bay and Sturry with friendly, professional care.
