Rabbits (domestic & wild caught)

Standard operating procedures for preventive health care

General procedures

  • The rabbit health standard operating procedure applies to all rabbits owned by WSU and defines the minimum preventive health care.
  • Exceptions to the rabbit health care SOP must be approved by the IACUC or through veterinary consultation.
  • Before acquisition, consult with veterinary staff to review incoming health status and determine a quarantine, testing and housing plan.
  • Maintain biosecurity to prevent disease transmission. Laboratory rabbits are typically pathogen-free for Bordetella, Pasteurella multocida, Rabbit Hemorrhagic Disease virus (RHDV) and other infectious agents that farm, pet-trade and wild rabbits are likely to carry. RHDV is highly contagious and can be spread by fomites, clothing and footware.
  • All veterinary assessments and procedures must be documented in the animal’s medical record.

Introduction of new animals

  • On arrival:
    • Assign an Individual Animal Identification (IACUC SOP #7) and create an Animal Care Medical Record (example pdf) (IACUC Policy #4).
    • Complete a physical exam by a veterinarian, veterinary technician, or trained animal care technician. Records should include additional notations for this species:
      • Teeth (malocclusion)
      • Body Condition
      • Nails (length or trauma)
      • Check for ectoparasites (fleas or mites). Treat with Selamectin per manufacturer recommendation if present.
    • Quarantine away from resident animals for at least 2-4 weeks depending on risk factors. Observe closely for signs of illness and treat as needed. 
    • Routine vaccination is not required.
    • Rabbits should be socially housed as outlined in IACUC Policy #30 unless behavior or research necessitates.

Herd health maintenance

  • All assessments and procedures must be documented in the Animal Medical Record.
  • Nails need to be checked and clipped every 4-6 weeks. Document exam or clipping in Animal Medical Record.
    • Check feet at time of nail trim to ensure they are not developing any sores, especially around the heels.
  • Weigh rabbits every 4-6 weeks and document in Animal Medical Record.
  • Rabbits are susceptible to heat stress. Room temperatures should be maintained between 61-72°F. Signs of heat stress include respiratory rate increase, fever, and lethargy. Contact a veterinarian or vet staff immediately if any of these signs are noted.

Minor cuts, scrapes or abrasions

  • If a rabbit is noted to have minor cuts, wounds or abrasions, the area should be cleaned thoroughly with an antiseptic solution such as chlorhexidine or betadine (or equivalent) and a commercial salve or wound coat applied. This can be done once daily for 2-7 days ensuring that the wound is healing and not worsening. If at any time the wound is draining or worsening, a veterinarian will need to assess and make a specific plan for the animal.
  • Daily documentation of treatment is necessary either in the form of a treatment sheet or in the medical record. 

Nutrition

  • Free choice timothy hay is recommended, but orchard or oat hay can be offered as an alternative. Avoid alfalfa hay in animals over 6 months of age due to high calcium content and predisposition to bladder stones.
  • Nutritionally complete commercial rabbit pellets should be fed daily based on age and weight.
  • Fresh greens (leafy lettuce, cilantro, kale) can be offered 1-3 cups daily. Avoid darker greens in rabbits >6 months of age due to higher calcium content.
  • Feed requirements of each animal should be determined to prevent over or underfeeding.
  • Rabbits must have unlimited access to fresh water.
  • Reduced appetite/anorexia or reduced feces is usually considered a same day medical emergency in rabbits. Contact veterinary staff immediately if these signs are noted.

References

“Physical Examination and Preventive Care of Rabbits”. Veterinary Clinics of North America. Vol. 2 Issue 2 1999. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1094919417301305?via%3Dihub

Management of Rabbits. Merck Manual. 2021. https://www.merckvetmanual.com/exotic-and-laboratory-animals/rabbits/management-of-rabbits

Rabbit Husbandry and Preventative Healthcare. SEAVS. https://www.seavs.com/pet-care-information/rabbit-care/

Effective Date: 11-30-23 NW