It's not uncommon for rabbits to have cold-like symptoms, like a sneeze and a nose that isn't fully open.Symptoms can be caused by upper respiratory infections and other conditions that should be evaluated by a vet.If your rabbit is sneezing, it is a good idea to see a vet.
Step 1: Observe your pet.
If your rabbit is sneezing, it's time to take it to the vet.Monitoring symptoms can help the vet determine what's wrong.There is a chance that your rabbit has an upper respiratory infection.Loud breathing is one of the symptoms of a lower respiratory infections.Rabbits with respiratory infections may have their noses stuck up.A hair or a small amount of food are foreign objects.There would be no symptoms beyond sneezing.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 symptom.You can come prepared with your opinion and information if the vet makes a formal assessment.
Step 2: A vet with experience with rabbits is a good choice.
Some vets won't 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 making an appointment, read reviews.
Step 3: The rabbit needs to be seen by a doctor.
Provide water in the pet carrier for your rabbit if they need to drink, if you take the rabbit to the vet in a carrier.Food and water dishes are built into 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.You can choose 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 it.
Different tests and a physical exam are needed to determine the cause of the problem.The vet will decide on the length of your appointment.Some vets want you to bring in a stool sample for testing.The sample should be less than 24 hours old.Blood will be drawn from your rabbit if your vet wants to do a blood test.They can take a sample of the discharge to run tests.If applicable, these tests will help determine the best antibiotic to use 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 the sneezing.
Step 5: As directed, use antibiotics and other medicines.
If you are sent home with antibiotics, you should 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.If your rabbit doesn't eat or eliminate in a period of 10 to 12 days, contact your vet.A potentially fatal medical emergency can be a sign of this.
Step 6: An area to give medication.
It may be difficult to give your rabbit the medication.Rabbits may not like the taste of the substance.Prepare a calm area where you can medicate your rabbit for this reason.A table or countertop is a good choice for a flat surface.If the rabbit jumps down, pick a table that is low to the ground.Have everything ready to go.You might need some supplies.
Step 7: The 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.Wrap your arm around the animal and use the other hand to administer the medication.
Step 8: The medication should be administered by someone.
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.
Step 9: If it's difficult to administer liquid meds, ask for pills.
Many rabbits will eat the pills without hesitation.If this doesn't work, you can mix the pill with the rabbit's favorite foods.You can mix liquids, such as water or fruit juice.
Step 10: Spend time with your animal.
If you spend more time with your rabbit, you can notice changes in his behavior.It will make your rabbit feel more secure.During free time, try to stay in the room and spend time with the rabbit.
Step 11: Your rabbit's nose needs to be 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: Your rabbit is being monitored.
You should monitor your rabbit in the weeks after your vet trip.Side effects can be caused by medication.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: Keep it clean.
Don't leave feces in your rabbit's cage.A rabbit's health can be affected by the build up ofbacteria.The litter box can be used 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.