Summer is here! If you have a rabbit, you’ll need to take some precautions to protect your furry pal from the heat. While any bunny can develop heat stroke, young bunnies and seniors are especially susceptible. They’re weaker, and just don’t have the capacity for handling extreme weather. Fat bunnies are also at high risk, because their bodies hold heat. A Pendleton, IN vet offers some advice on keeping Floppy cool and healthy in this article.

Habitat

First and foremost, make sure that your bunny buddy has a cool, comfy habitat. If Floppy’s cage is in direct sunlight, move it to another spot until summer is over. You can also keep it cool by offering your adorable pet a frozen ceramic tile to rest on. An extra water bottle is also helpful.

Longhaired Rabbits

Fluffy bunnies are super cute, but they do need some extra attention. We strongly advise brushing Floppy every day. Some people trim their longhaired pets in summer. Ask your vet for advice on this.  

Heatstroke

Keep a close eye out for signs of heatstroke. Lethargy is one of the major ones. You may also notice a lack of appetite. Red ears are a (literal) red flag. Floppy may also be unresponsive, and she may pant, drool, tremble, or shake. If you notice any of these signs, immediately take steps to cool your furball down. Bunnies use their adorable ears to regulate their temperature, so gently rubbing a cool, damp washcloth along your little buddy’s ears can help. You can also put an ice pack or frozen bottle of water in a towel, and give that to your bunny to rest on. Floppy should also be offered water. As you are doing these things, call your vet or an emergency clinic.

Note: do not try to cool Floppy down by submerging her in water. Rabbits are terrified of water, and can actually die of fright!

Flystrike

One thing you’ll need to be aware and careful about is flystrike. This is a particular concern for bunnies with outdoor hutches. Basically, it’s a fly/maggot infestation that is both extremely gross and extremely painful. It’s very deadly, and can kill in just a day or two. If you notice any signs of flystrike, immediately contact your vet or an emergency clinic.

Do you have questions about bunny care? Contact us, your Pendleton, IN pet hospital, anytime!