September 24th is International Bunny Day! Just like any other pet, bunnies are susceptible to certain illnesses … including heart disease. Unfortunately, there’s no way to completely guarantee that Floppy will never develop heart issues. It’s actually a fairly common problem in bunnies, particularly older ones. However, there are some ways to reduce the risk. A Fort Collins, CO vet lists some key ones below.

Good Diet

Floppy should always have plenty of high-quality grass hay, such as Timothy hay. You can offer pellets for your furry friend’s main meals. This should be supplemented with healthy, bunny-safe produce. Treats are fine, but don’t let that cute face manipulate you into going overboard. Obesity is a huge risk factor for heart issues! Ask your vet for specific advice.

Exercise

Bunnies can get quite zoomy when they’re little. However, they can get pretty lazy as they age. You probably won’t be able to get Floppy on a treadmill, but you can keep her active by offering lots of toys and playing with her.

Reducing Stress

As with people, stress is often a key factor in bunny heart health. Small things can go a long way towards keeping rabbits calm and content. A comfy cage is a must! Also, make sure your furball is getting plenty of free time to play. Don’t expose your bunny to things that may frighten her. That includes things like loud noises, a lot of commotion, and even dogs and children. Keep Floppy in a quiet spot, but don’t isolate her to the point where she feels lonely.

Careful Monitoring

Pay close attention to your furry friend, and take note of anything that seems out of the ordinary. Any change in your pet’s appearance, behavior, or eating and drinking habits may warrant a closer look. You’ll also want to watch for warning signs of illness, such as lethargy, reduced interest in play, weight gain or loss, coughing, bloating, and respiratory distress. Contact your vet right away if you notice any of these.

Regular Veterinary Care

Last but certainly not least, it’s also important that you take your little pal in for regular exams and screenings. It’s worth noting that many rabbits show few signs of heart disease, especially in the early stages. As your local Fort Collins, CO animal clinic, we are always ‘hoppy’ to help. Please feel free to contact us anytime!