How To Rabbits have teeth that need to be handled.
Are your rabbit's teeth too large?That can be bad for them.Rabbits teeth grow and sometimes become overgrown.It's possible to treat overgrown teeth with prompt veterinary care.Follow any aftercare instructions after you take your rabbit to the vet.Feed your rabbit a healthy diet and provide it with objects to chew.
Step 1: There are signs of overgrown teeth.
The most obvious sign of overgrown teeth is that your rabbit's teeth are longer than usual.Symptoms of overgrown teeth include drooling, a decrease in grooming, and a loss of appetite.
Step 2: Look for a vet who can treat rabbits.
Not every vet knows how to treat rabbits.If you don't already have a vet in your area, look online to find one.You can ask the vets if they treat rabbits.
Step 3: Your vet will do a complete exam.
Once at the vet's office, your vet will examine your rabbit, paying close attention to their teeth.Your vet will use the exam to evaluate the best way to treat overgrown teeth.The vet will be able to figure out if the overgrown teeth have caused any problems.The exam will usually be physical.If your vet suspects an illness, blood work may be necessary.x-rays may be required for extremely overgrown teeth.
Step 4: Your vet can trim your rabbit's teeth.
Overgrown teeth can be trimmed with a file or a small tool.This is a fairly simple procedure that can be done quickly and safely.On the same day the teeth are trimmed, you'll be able to take your rabbit home.Don't try to trim your rabbit's teeth on your own.It is necessary to have special veterinary equipment.It is important not to use nail clippers or wire trimmers to trim the teeth because they can exert too much pressure.
Step 5: In extreme cases, have surgery.
If overgrown teeth are caused by congenital problems or trauma to the mouth, surgery may be necessary.Your vet may need to adjust your rabbit's teeth.Your rabbit may need to stay at the vets for a few days after the procedure because it is more expensive.Talk to your vet about the surgery.Before and after surgery, make sure you understand what your rabbit needs.Depending on your rabbit's age and overall health, blood work may be necessary prior to surgery.
Step 6: Soften the pellets with water.
Your rabbit's teeth may be sore after being treated by a vet.Rabbits may not be able to eat their regular food for a few days after treatment, so it is helpful to have water with them.If your rabbit doesn't eat for a day or two after treatment, you should not be concerned.Most rabbits will return to their normal eating habits within a few days of treatment for stress and pain.
Step 7: Take your rabbit's fruit, veggies, and hay.
Your rabbit's teeth will be sore after treatment, so providing food in smaller sizes will help your rabbit eat.Fruits and vegetables can be cut into small pieces.The hay should be broken into three or four inch sections.
Step 8: Administer antibiotics.
Make sure to give your rabbit the full round of its medication if your vet prescribed antibiotics after treatment.Antibiotics can be put in a rabbit's food or administered via a needle.Your vet should be able to tell you how to administer the drugs.Ask your vet if there are any side effects.Contact your vet as soon as possible if you have any questions about the medication.
Step 9: Take care of your rabbit's teeth.
The quicker you treat the teeth, the better.It is a good idea to check your rabbit's teeth once a week.In addition to checking your rabbit's teeth yourself, have your vet do a dental exam every year.
Step 10: Feed your rabbit.
A high-fiber food diet will help your rabbit wear down their teeth and prevent them from getting overgrown.Grass, leafy vegetables, and abrasive hay can be added to your rabbit's diet.You want your rabbit to eat like rabbits in the wild.Your rabbit's teeth will be strong and healthy if you eat balanced food.
Step 11: Provide your rabbit with a lot of things to chew.
Stock your rabbit's cage with items that they can chew on.Blocks of wood that have not been painted are a great option.Log treats are meant to be chewed over time.If your rabbit chokes on the toy, make sure to throw it away.Rabbits like to chew different objects.To find an object your rabbit will like, you may have to do some trial and error.Don't give your rabbit anything that is harmful to chew.Make sure they are natural and non-toxic.
Step 12: Don't give your rabbits mineral supplement blocks.
If you're providing your rabbit with pellets, you don't need mineral supplement blocks.They can cause health problems for some rabbits.