Heatstroke in Rabbits

Fall may be around the corner, but most of the country is still experiencing near-record temperatures extending summer for many of us. As we all know, heat stroke can be fatal, especially for your furry friend. Rabbits cannot sweat or pant like we can to help bring down body temperature, causing them to be particularly susceptible to suffering in the hot weather.

What is heat stroke?
Heatstroke occurs when rabbits get too hot and cannot regulate their body temperature to cool down. Heatstroke is a severe illness for rabbits and can be fatal. You’ll want to keep an eye on your rabbit on warmer days. Your furry friend’s enclosure should be between 50- 70 degrees Fahrenheit. Most agree that temperatures above 85 degrees Fahrenheit becomes dangerous for domestic rabbits.

What signs and symptoms should you look for?
Rabbits do not readily show any symptoms of heatstroke unless they are in real trouble. Check up on your rabbit at least a couple of times a day to spot any early signs of illness whenever temperatures start to rise.

Signs of heatstroke are:

• Short, shallow breaths
• Reddening and warm ears
• Drooling or salivating
• Wetness around the nose
• Overall weakness and lethargy
• Fainting or falling unconscious

If your rabbit shows any heatstroke signs, please call your vet immediately! While on your way to the vet, wetting your rabbits’ ears and feet and draping their body in a wet towel can help.

A vet should always see a rabbit that is suffering from heatstroke. Even if you believe you have cooled your rabbit down and they are behaving normally, it is always best to have your vet assess your pet.

How can you help prevent heatstroke?
Shade is a must-have for a rabbit. Instead of housing them in the sun, give them the option to move to sunlight when they feel like it.

Hydration is key! Change the water often during warmer days so they will always have access to clean, cool water. Wrapping a bottle of frozen water in a towel is a great way to help your rabbit keep cool in its enclosure.

Believe it or not but grooming will also help. Rabbits with longer fur will heat up much quicker; ensuring that your rabbit is well-groomed will make a difference.

Care for your pet rabbits may vary slightly season to season with changing temperatures. Grandpa’s Best can take care of your pet’s nutritional hay needs by providing a full line of hay offerings – Timothy Hay, Prairie Grass Hay, Orchard Grass Hay, and Alfalfa Hay. Be sure to check out our website today to see which product (or products!) work best for your furry friend, and always be vigilant when it comes to protecting your rabbit from heatstroke.