Tips for Grooming Your Bunny

Bunnies are great little pets. They’re not only funny and adorable, they’re also pretty clean. However, you will have to help Floppy out a bit with grooming. Read on for some great tips from a Pickerington, OH vet on keeping up with rabbit’s beauty care needs.

Be Prepared For Molts

Rabbits don’t shed continuously, like cats and dogs do. Instead, they basically explode a few times a year, and replace their entire coats at once. This is known as molting. You’ll need to brush Floppy every day during her molts. Hairballs are a serious concern with bunnies at these times. Because rabbits can’t expel hairballs, they can develop some very serious intestinal issues by swallowing too much fur. Ask your vet to recommend a hairball prevention product.

Go Gently

Rabbit skin is extremely delicate, and rips easily. Always be very gentle when brushing Floppy. Also, be sure to use the right brushes. You could hurt your bunny just by tugging too hard at a knot or tangle!

Sweeten The Deal

Floppy’s beauty sessions will be much more fun for both of you if she thinks she’s being pampered. Always offer cuddles, treats, and praise whenever you groom your bunny.

Don’t Bathe Floppy

Never bathe your rabbit, unless your vet specifically directs you to. (This would usually only happen if your pet gets something spilled on her.) Bunnies get very frightened when they are submerged in water. This can actually cause them to go into shock, which can be fatal. If Floppy gets dirt or feces stuck to her bottom, you can carefully lower her rear end into a sink or tote full of lukewarm water. Swish water around her gently to clean her fur.

Keep Up With Peticures

You’ll need to clip Floppy’s claws regularly. Otherwise, they can get caught on things, which can cause tears and infections. Ask your vet to demonstrate proper techniques.

Make It Routine

Make bunny-grooming time part of your regular weekly routine. Floppy will accept—and enjoy—grooming much more often if it’s part of her normal schedule.

Don’t Forget The Ears!

Cleaning Floppy’s ears is also important. Use baby oil or an ear-cleaning product and a soft cotton pad or cloth. Be very gentle: those cute ears are very delicate! Please contact us, your Pickerington, OH vet clinic, for all your bunny’s veterinary care needs. We’re here to help!