Good Health of an Elderly Rabbit or Rodent
Rabbits and other rodents (small mammals in general) live longer than they did a few years ago. Several aspects of small mammal management such as diet, husbandry, and medical care have improved over the years. For example, comparing now and then, a rabbit diet is now richer in fiber and nutrients, gradually changing from cereal mix to a more balanced diet with ad libitum hay and pelleted food. Many studies have proven that these highly energetic animals need a space larger than a hutch, and a companion to exhibit normal behavior. These also boost healthier and more interesting life for senior pets.
Furthermore, small mammal medicine and surgery have progressed in the last few years. We now have a better knowledge of how to treat the most common problems and how to reduce the risks under general anesthesia. An older small mammal, and similarly to other companion animals, experience changes in their body functions and develop health issues, especially chronic problems that can affect their life quality if overlooked. Limited information is provided on how to look after older rabbits, not only on preventing and detecting diseases at an early stage but also on how to support them in their everyday life.
Small mammals, in general, are very active animals that, when given the opportunity, enjoy running, jumping, digging, and chewing. When they get older, they tend to show a decrease in activity level. They are less agile and sleep longer hours, especially during the day. Because they are less active, they tend to gain weight. They are also more predisposed to develop chronic and infectious diseases. And they exhibit changes in behavior, such as grooming themselves less often and decreased response to the owner and the surrounding environment. For all these reasons, it is important to modify their diet and environment.
For example, as the rabbit’s metabolism changes with the age, the diet and the dietary energy content should also change to adapt to their new needs. Senior rabbits should continue to receive plenty of hay as it is important to continually maintain good gut motility and healthy gut fora. Nuggets should be reduced if generic rabbit food is used. As with the other companion animals, once the pet gets older, a diet richer in fiber will help to maintain healthy guts and weight in balance. Read the previous blog on Rabbit Care Feeding for a more balanced diet guide. When they get older they also tend to develop arthritis and show reduced mobility, stiffness, and difficulties in jumping inside the hutch. Daily exercise is advised to maintain good muscles and healthy joints; however, the space where they live should be modified to make it easier for the animal to move around. If the pet starts finding it difficult hopping on laminated and other slippery floors, put carpets or runs for more stability. Ramps can be placed too to enter the hutch more easily and to limit jumping. Older animals can experience reduced hearing and vision; in this case, it is advisable to limit the free-ranging to a smaller area where they can feel safe. It will also reduce the risks of accidents, such as getting frightened in a new open area or being stepped on by the owner by mistake. Rabbits can be very quiet. If they live outdoors, they should be provided with a warm and well-insulated area and extra bedding to keep them comfortable.
The owner’s approach to the rabbit would also need to change to adapt to their pet’s needs. Small mammals, at an older age, become less independent and more prone to develop problems. An owner should spend more time grooming them, especially around the perineal area, and check the ears, the teeth, and the body condition score (BCS) daily. Regular check-ups at your veterinarian would be advisable to prevent any worsening of its medical condition.
Contact ABVC at info@abvc.ae or call our clinic at 04 340 8601 for more help and support for your senior pet in Dubai.
Written by Dr. David Arnau Perez
