It is not uncommon for rabbits to sneeze and have other cold-like symptoms.Such symptoms can be caused by upper respiratory infections and other conditions that should be evaluated by a vet.If your rabbit is sneezing, it's a good idea to see a vet.
Step 1: Take a look at your rabbit.
If your rabbit is sneezing, it's time to take it to the vet.Monitoring symptoms can help the vet determine what's wrong.It's possible that your rabbit has an upper respiratory infection, which could cause a variety of symptoms.Symptoms of a lower respiratory infections include loud breathing.Rabbits with respiratory infections may have their noses stuck up.A hair or a small amount of food are foreign objects.There wouldn't be many symptoms beyond sneezing in this case.Sneezing can be caused by a dental problem that has spread to the nose.Older rabbits are more likely to suffer from this cold-like symptoms.A formal assessment should be made by a vet, but you can come prepared with your opinion and information to help.
Step 2: You can find a vet who has experience with rabbits.
Some vets will not see rabbits.They may not have enough experience with rabbits to properly evaluate your pet.Ask your rabbit owners to refer you to a rabbit-friendly vet in your area.Before you make an appointment, read reviews.
Step 3: The rabbit should be brought to the vet.
Provide water in the pet carrier for your rabbit if they need to drink and take the rabbit to the vet in a well-ventilated box.Food and water dishes are built in to many carriers.Your pet's safety is the main thing when choosing a carrier, so find the right one for your needs before bringing your sick rabbit to the vet.Pick from crates, slings, and more.If you don't already have a carrier, you can ask the vet if you should buy one.
Step 4: Allow the doctor to look at the problem.
The vet may have to do more than one test to find the cause of the problem.The length of your appointment depends on what the vet wants to do.Some vets want you to bring in a stool sample.It should be less than 24 hours old.Your vet might want to do a blood test on your rabbit.They might take a sample of the discharge to run the tests.If applicable, these tests will help determine what kind of antibiotic is best for your rabbit.Tell the vet everything you know about your rabbit's home, from what he eats to what kind of bedding he uses.It could be as simple as changing the bedding to stop sneezing.
Step 5: Antibiotics or other medicines should be used as directed.
If you are sent home with antibiotics, make sure to use them as directed.You may be given antibiotics before the test results come back.It is possible to create resistant strains ofbacteria by skipping doses of antibiotics or finishing antibiotics too early.It will be harder to find an antibiotic that will work when your rabbit is sick.Make sure to give the full course even after the symptoms have gone away.Your rabbit may be affected by antibiotics.Any changes in appetite or elimination habits need to be reported to your vet to make sure it's a temporary reaction to the medication and not a sign of a more serious problem.Contact your vet if your rabbit doesn't eat or eliminate in a certain period.This can be a sign of a serious medical problem.
Step 6: Prepare an area to give the medication.
It may be difficult to dose your rabbit with the medication.Rabbits may dislike the taste of the substance.You need to prepare a calm area so that you can medicate your rabbit.A table or countertop is a flat surface.If the rabbit jumps down, pick a table that is low to the ground.Have everything ready to go.Get rid of any supplies you might need.
Step 7: Your rabbit should be wrapped in a towel.
Wrap your rabbit in a towel to stop it from scratching.Put a towel under the rabbit's body on both sides to keep it from moving.You can administer the medication by wrapping your arm around the animal.
Step 8: Administer the medication.
Most rabbit meds come in the form of a liquid, so you will probably have to use a disposable syringe.With the rabbit secured in the towel, place the tip of the syringe behind the front teeth and slowly distribute the liquid.
Step 9: If it's difficult to administer liquid meds, ask for pill form.
Many rabbits will eat pills that are shaped like rabbits.You can mix the pill with the rabbit's favorite foods if this doesn't work.You can mix with liquids, such as water or fruit juice.
Step 10: Spend some time with your pet.
If you spend more time with your rabbit, you can notice changes in his behavior.It will make your rabbit feel safe.During free time try to stay in the room and spend time with the rabbit.
Step 11: Keep your rabbit's nose clean.
Use a damp cotton pad to clean away any discharge if your rabbit is still sneezing.Rabbits can only breathe through their noses, so it's important to keep their nostrils clear.
Step 12: Make sure your rabbit is well cared for.
Monitor your rabbit in the weeks after your vet trip to make sure he's doing well.Side effects can be caused by medications.For the most part, these should pass but you should keep an eye on the things that don't pass.You should make sure the symptoms are gone after the medication is administered.You might need to make a second trip to see what's going on if they don't.
Step 13: The cage needs to be kept clean.
Don't leave feces in your rabbit's cage.A rabbit's health can be jeopardized by the build up ofbacteria.You can use a litter box as an area for the rabbit to defecate.Change out any bedding every couple of days, and scrub the cage thoroughly every few weeks, in addition to removing feces.If your rabbit has been sick, you should always take precautions.