Osteoarthritis in Rabbits

Osteoarthritis is commonly just referred to as arthritis, it is a painful disease caused by damage within the joint, as a result it makes movement more difficult. It can normally affects the hips, elbows and knee joints.

Rabbits in later life, commonly over six years of age, can be more prone to suffering from osteoarthritis. It can also be associated with rabbits who are overweight, suffered injury to a joint or have predisposed joint problems.

As rabbits are a prey animal, they will not typically show pain and early signs of the disease can be easily missed. Signs to look out for may include:

• Stiffness when moving
• Becoming soiled around their back end
• Becoming wet (urine soiled) on their undercarriage
• Reluctant to jump up onto surfaces or down from surfaces
• Sleeping more often

How can you help your arthritic rabbit at home?

Weight control
Weight control is really important for rabbits who are suffering from arthritis, if you would like advice on your rabbit’s current weight, please contact the practice to speak to one of registered veterinary nurses

Exercise
Encouraging low impact movement and keeping them engaged is helpful and will keep the joints active

Simple lifestyle changes

• Provide them warm, comfy sleeping areas that are also accessible
• Make sure the surfaces are not slippery
• If needed provide ramps up to raised areas
• Check your rabbit daily to make sure they are clean around their back end

If you have any concerns and require any advice, please do not hesitate to contact the surgery.