Do rabbits need to be bathed?

Washing a rabbit is the exception rather than the rule. By itself, the animal does not need systematic bathing, it perfectly keeps its coat clean on its own. But under certain conditions, even such a neat person needs bath procedures. What are these cases? For example:

• The rabbit is so dirty that neither brushes nor wet wipes can cope. Perhaps he dug into the ground and now you won’t look at him without tears.

• The kid unsuccessfully went to the toilet – and soft feces stuck under his tail. You can not leave excrement in the anus of a rabbit, because. when dried, they block the anus and interfere with defecation, and can also cause infection. In addition, rabbit stool smells very unpleasant. A pet can stain the floor, carpet, sofa cover, etc.

• Household chemicals accidentally got on the fur of the animal. In this case, the rabbit must be bathed to remove the poisonous substance and prevent poisoning.

Resort to water procedures as little as possible, because. bathing can break the lipid layer of the skin and will be a huge stress for the animal. Washing is best done with plain water. But if it does not remove pollution, then you can use auxiliary products, such as zoo shampoo. Just do not buy shampoos for dogs or cats, special products are suitable for a rabbit. They have a gentle composition that will fit for the delicate skin of the eared.

• They do not bathe very small rabbits, because. they still have a weak body and delicate skin.

• It is strictly forbidden to wet the rabbit’s head: water can get into the eyes and ears. This contributes to the occurrence of otitis media in the ears and conjunctivitis in the eyes. For the same reason, rabbits should not be allowed near water bodies, although in the wild and in case of danger, eared ones swim quite well. 

• Shower cannot be used. The rabbit is placed either in a basin of water, or in a dry tub or sink, and the tap water is turned on. Water is collected in hands and gently washed the soiled area of ​​​​the body. 

• Did you find fleas on your rabbit? Do not rush to wash it: bathing will not help get rid of existing parasites. Better buy drops from fleas (but not a collar!). 

• It is impossible to use human soap (even children’s or household soap) and other products that are not intended for a rabbit. “Our” soap has a higher pH than a rabbit needs, so after bathing with soap, irritations or allergies can form on the body of a rabbit. 

• Water should not be cold or excessively hot. Optimal – 35-40 degrees. Rinse the rabbit’s fur very carefully to remove traces of detergent and so that the pet does not lick it off later. Enlist the help of another person to hold the eared one while you wash the contaminated area.

Do not forget also that washing for a rabbit is stressful, and these big-eared guys are very painfully experiencing any situations that are unusual for them. If possible, it is better to do without water procedures. And if that doesn’t work, don’t forget to talk sweetly to the rabbit to encourage him. 

So, you have removed the contamination on the rabbit’s body and done everything according to the rules. But even after the procedure, you need to take into account some nuances. 

• First, wrap your rabbit in a towel and place him in a quiet, peaceful place. 

• Secondly, avoid drafts and hypothermia.

• Thirdly, after bathing, do not take the baby outside for 8-10 hours. The rabbit must dry completely. 

• Fourth, do not use a hair dryer. The pet may be frightened by loud noise and experience severe stress. Let the stomp dry naturally, although it will take some time. And if your brave ward is not at all afraid of a hair dryer, use it only at the lowest settings. The air flow should be slightly warm. But it’s better not to check!

Any experienced rabbit owner knows that this animal is naturally very clean. Rabbit fur does not exude an unpleasant odor. He does an excellent job of taking care of his coat. And if his home is clean and dry, then no problems will arise.

Therefore, the owner of the eared one needs to carefully monitor the cleanliness of the dwelling where the rabbit lives. If the baby spends the night in a cage, it should be cleaned every day. The contents of the rabbit litter box also need to be cleaned regularly. Choose a good filler that will not get tangled in a fur coat, and replace it regularly. Monitor the condition of the rabbit’s coat. As soon as it starts to get dirty, it is better to immediately clean it up with wet wipes, a combing brush or dry shampoo. Be sure to unravel tangles in a timely manner (or, if this is not possible, remove them). 

If your rabbit has a long or curly coat that is difficult to care for, it’s best to see a professional groomer. He will put the animal in order and share with you life hacks on how to keep the baby looking perfect.

To prevent loose stools in a rabbit, feed him only high-quality food, do not forget to give vegetables and herbs. Do not feed your pet with treats and high-calorie foods. Because of them, the rabbit just happens to have problems with the toilet. Remove adhering feces in a timely manner, without waiting for it to dry tightly. 

Do not forget that rabbits shed about once every six months. If you comb out your pet and help him get rid of excess fur, then no more manipulations with the fur coat of the animal will be needed. 

Now you know the answer to the question of whether rabbits are bathed and how. We wish your pet the best care!