TAYLOR VETS
If you’ve recently brought rabbits home, book them in for a check-up. We’ll examine them and answer your questions about feeding, housing and day-to-day care.
Rabbits can hide signs of illness, so we recommend regular checks even when they seem well. If you’ve noticed them slowing down or struggling to keep clean, we can check for problems such as arthritis and help them feel more comfortable.
Our Members’ Club includes a plan for rabbits.
Rabbits need vaccinations every year, whether they live indoors or outside. Myxomatosis and rabbit viral haemorrhagic disease (RVHD) can be fatal. Biting insects can carry infection, and contaminated food or other materials can bring it into your home.
We recommend two vaccines each year, at appointments two weeks apart:
We usually start from eight weeks old. If you’re unsure what your rabbits have had or when they’re due, give us a call.
The Rabbit Welfare Association & Fund (RWAF) explains more about vaccinations and RVHD.
We recommend neutering male and female rabbits. It prevents unwanted litters and can reduce spraying and territorial behaviour, helping rabbits get along with their companions.
Castration removes a male’s testicles and prevents testicular cancer. Spaying removes a female’s ovaries and usually her womb. Removing the womb prevents womb cancer and infections.
We usually neuter from four months old, although some males can be ready from 12 weeks. Your rabbit will need a general anaesthetic. The risk is higher than for cats and dogs, but techniques have improved considerably and the risk for a healthy rabbit is generally low. We’ll explain what’s involved and discuss any concerns with you.
Your rabbit will have a free health check before surgery and stay with us for the day. We’ll make sure they’re eating and pooing before going home with pain relief, recovery food and instructions for their care. We’ll also arrange follow-up checks.
Read the RWAF’s neutering advice.
If your rabbit escapes, a vet can scan their microchip and find your registered contact details. We can usually fit a chip at a nurse appointment without an anaesthetic, or during neutering. Remember to update the database if your details change.
Ingrid is our lead consulting nurse. She helps rabbits feel comfortable during their visit and advises owners on looking after them at home.
Ruby had her first rabbit at seven. She qualified in 2018 and has kept her interest in rabbit care and welfare throughout her veterinary career.
Our guide covers choosing rabbits, feeding, housing and care as they get older.
If your rabbit stops eating or passing droppings, call us straight away.
You should also call urgently if you notice:
We see rabbits out of hours too. The on-call team will advise you on what to do.
Read the RWAF’s advice on recognising emergencies.
30 Market Place,
Brackley
NN13 7DP
