Grooming Your Bunny

Rabbits are very cute, and have a way of melting people’s hearts with their furry faces and floppy ears. Floppy is also very soft, which makes her a great cuddle buddy. Although rabbits do groom themselves, your pet will need a helping hand with her beauty regimen. Here, a Pickerington, OH vet discusses grooming your bunny.

Brushing

Make sure to brush your furry friend regularly. Bunny skin is extremely delicate and rips easily, so you’ll have to be very gentle. How often you have to brush your pet will depend on what type of rabbit you have. Fluffy bunnies, like Angoras, need daily grooming. If Floppy has short, smooth fur, she may only need to be brushed a few times a week. Of course, regardless of what kind of rabbit you have, you’ll have to brush your pet daily when she is shedding. A few times a year, bunnies lose their entire coats and grow new hair. This is known as molting. At these times, you’ll need to be extra diligent with your pet’s beauty rituals. Your vet may also recommend a hairball remedy.

Bathing

You should never bathe a rabbit. Bunnies can actually go into shock from being bathed. This can even be fatal! If Floppy gets something on her fur—especially around her bottom—you can fill a small square tote with lukewarm water. Dip your pet gently in the water. Don’t submerge her: just wet the part that’s dirty. Swish the water around to clean her. Gently pat her dry with a towel.

Peticures

You’ll need to keep your bunny’s nails trimmed. If Floppy’s claws get too long, they could snag and tear on things. This can be quite painful! You’ll need to get your rabbit used to the process. Pick a time when your pet is relaxing on your lap. Start by just holding her paw, and running clippers over her toes. Offer treats and praise to sweeten the deal.

Eyes and Ears

Last but not least, you’ll need to gently clean Floppy’s eyes and ears. Use a soft, clean cloth or cotton pad that has been dipped in warm water for your pet’s eyes. For her ears, you may also need to use an ear cleaning solution. Ask your vet for specific advice. Please contact us, your Pickerington, OH vet clinic, for all your pet’s veterinary care needs. We’re here to help!