Do you groom your bunny? If not, there’s no time like the present to start. Grooming your bunny is essential to the comfort and overall health of your pet. Today, we’re breaking down bunny grooming basics that’ll keep your pet bunny looking and feeling like a million carrots.
Bathing a Pet Bunny
Many people ask if they should bathe their bunny. The short answer is no. Generally speaking, bunnies are very clean animals. If it becomes necessary to clean your bunny, it is advisable to spot-clean the dirty area.
Most bunnies will only need their bottom cleaned from time to time. In this case, warm water and bunny shampoo should be used. If you use a blow dryer, put the dry on the lowest setting and position the dryer at least 12-inches away from the bunny. Be sure to keep the dryer moving and avoid aiming the dryer in one spot for too long as you may risk burning the bunny’s gentle skin.
When bathing a pet bunny, you may need to ask someone to help you. Even though your bunny isn’t completely submerged in water, he will likely squirm, which could become a hazard. Bunnies are known to go into shock during stressful experiences such as bathing, especially when their immune systems have been compromised. Therefore, we encourage you to speak to your veterinary care team before attempting to bathe your bun.
Brushing a Pet Bunny
Some bunnies need to be brushed every day. Long-haired bunnies such as the angora rabbit tend to mat therefore daily brushing is a must. Even bunnies with shorter hair will need to be brushed with a bristle brush at least once a week and maybe more often if you notice mats forming.
Bunnies need to be brushed more frequently during periods of shedding no matter their coat length. Most bunnies will shed their coats every three months. Not all bunnies shed for the same amount of time or during the same season. Getting to know your bunny’s shedding habits helps manage their care.
Trimming or Shaving a Pet Bunny
It’s possible that grooming your bunny may, at some point, involve shaving. Shaving your bunny should occur only if absolutely necessary. It’s perfectly appropriate to trim your bunny’s fur down to about an inch or so if you are trying to prevent matting and hairballs. If you do not know how to safely shave and trim your bunny, leave it to the professionals. Your bunny will be happy you asked.
Cleaning a Pet Bunny’s Scent Glands
Similarly to other species, rabbits have scent glands on their bottom, behind their ears, and under their chin. From time to time, they develop a foul smell due to the build-up of a waxy substance in the ducts of the glands. By simply wetting the area of the scent glands with mineral oil, you can easily wipe clean and restore your bunny’s gland to its scent-free state. Keep in mind you are dealing with very delicate areas of your bunny so please be gentle.
Trimming a Pet Bunny’s Nails
Grooming your pet bunny includes trimming his nails. Trim your pet bunny’s nails only if you feel comfortable doing so.
To trim your bunny’s nails, place him on his back in your lap or hold him like a baby in the crook of your arm. Carefully trim your bunny’s nails. Don’t trim past the quick, which is where the blood supply begins. Nails that are light in color are easier to trim because you can visually see the quick, making it easier to avoid injury to the bunny while trimming. Dark-colored nails are trickier. Using a flashlight makes it easier to see the quick. If you do happen to cut down to the quick, you can quickly stop the bleeding by applying styptic powder or Kwik Stop, readily available at pet supply stores and pharmacies like Walgreens. Use snacks and treats to make the experience more pleasant for your bun.
If trimming your bunny’s nails makes you nervous, don’t fret. Take your bunny to the vet or groomer and they will be glad to do it for you. They do it all the time.
Best Bunny Care
To learn more about grooming your bunny, check out the House Rabbit Society, a non-profit rescue and education organization. When caring for bunnies, always remember that they are highly delicate creatures. They need gentle, conscientious care, especially during new experiences.
Finally, if you’re headed out of town and need help caring for your bunny, count on the knowledgeable team at Animal Admiration. We offer specialized pet sitting services for cats, dogs, and small mammals including rabbits. To learn more about our pet sitting services in and around Katy, TX, please contact us at contact us by email at info@animaladmiration.com or by phone at (281) 391-1015. We offer our personalized in-home pet care in Katy, Fulshear, Richmond, Energy Corridor, Memorial, West Houston, and Cypress. We look forward to caring for your bun!
I have a male companion/comfort bunny that needs to be neutered. SPCA has a program that’s on hold due to pandemic. How can I get financial assistance to help pay for this?