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Rabbits and Rodents

We regard rabbits and rodents, such as guinea pigs, gerbils, hamsters, or chinchillas, as full-fledged pets that deserve and can receive as much attention as any other pet.

As these animal groups are unfortunately somewhat underrepresented in veterinary studies, we have attended many continuing education courses and conferences both in the Netherlands and abroad to remain fully up to date on all possible treatments, but primarily to prevent animals from becoming ill.

We possess expertise in extensive dental problems, such as malocclusion of incisors, molar spurs, abscess treatments, and ear infections. Furthermore, we offer the possibility of admitting a rabbit or rodent to our inpatient ward to provide the best possible care, including fluid therapy.

When a rabbit suddenly stops eating, it is often necessary to conduct further investigation through, for example, X-rays or blood tests, and overnight hospitalization may be required if the animal is severely ill.

Additionally, Karolien is a certified rabbit groomer and can always provide advice regarding your rabbit’s coat care; however, you are also welcome to bring them in for a professional grooming session.

We will always explore the possibilities that offer the best outcome for the animal.

VetPlan Rabbit

Rabbits are masters at hiding illness. Therefore, we consider it essential to examine them thoroughly at least once a year and to vaccinate them against life-threatening diseases.

Included:

  • Annual health check
  • Additional check-up with the veterinary nurse
  • Vaccination against Myxomatosis and RHD1/RHD2
  • Fly and maggot prevention spray
  • 2 bags of rabbit food (3 kg per bag)
  • 50% discount on microchipping – convenient and safe, especially for rabbits that live outdoors or occasionally escape
  • Unlimited nail clipping
  • A box of supplements to provide responsible support for your rabbit

 

VetPlan Plus Rabbit

For senior rabbits or those where additional monitoring is desirable.

Including annually:

  • Additional check-up
  • Blood tests focused on organ function

Furthermore, both options include a 10% discount on dental treatments, should your rabbit ever develop a dental problem or perhaps already has one.

View the VetPlan for your rabbit below.

Vetplan Rabbit

Keep your rabbit healthy for as long as possible with VetPlan's preventive care

Emergencies in rabbits

Recognize emergency symptoms and act quickly

An emergency is any situation where your animal’s life is in danger or they are in severe pain. Always contact us immediately if your animal:

  • Not eating or producing no droppings (longer than 8–12 hours)
  • Lethargy, teeth grinding, or lying flat
  • A swollen abdomen
  • Diarrhea or blood loss
  • Maggots on the skin (myiasis)
  • Difficulty breathing or nasal discharge
  • Limping or has suffered a fall

Emergencies in rodents

(guinea pig, hamster, rat, mouse, gerbil, chinchilla)
Small animals can deteriorate rapidly when they are ill.

An emergency is any situation where your animal’s life is in danger or they are in severe pain. Always contact us immediately if your animal:

  • Not eating or drinking (more than 6–8 hours)
  • Swollen abdomen or respiratory distress
  • Bleeding or open wound
  • Diarrhea (especially in young animals)
  • Discharge from eyes, nose, or vulva
  • Sudden lethargy or feeling cold to the touch
  • Swelling of the mouth or overgrown teeth

Frequently Asked Questions Rabbits & Rodents

If your question is not listed here, please feel free to contact us!

Not eating is always emergency in rabbits. Call immediately, as this can be life-threatening.

Once a year against myxomatosis and RHD (VHS1 and 2).

Teeth grinding, sluggishness, eating less or sitting in a corner are alarm signals.

Hay is the most important thing. In addition, some fresh vegetables and a small amount of kibble.

Twice a year is normal, but make sure he or she keeps eating, or a hairball may have developed.

Yes, that is urgent. Guinea pigs should not fast – call us immediately.

At least 1-2 times a week, depending on the species and group size.

Hamsters are nocturnal animals. They sleep a lot during the day, but sluggish behavior at night is a warning sign.

Mild sneezing may be due to dust, but persistent sneezing or wheezing requires investigation.

Only if they are well sheltered and never fall below 10°C. Inside is safer.

Rabbits with dental problems often start eating less or become more selective. They may drop food from their mouth, take longer to eat, drool, lose weight, or produce fewer droppings. Sometimes a swelling near the jaw or cheek is visible. A watery eye can also be related to a dental problem in some cases.

Anesthesia is usually required for a full assessment and safe treatment of the molars. Only then can the back molars be properly examined and sharp edges carefully corrected without unnecessary stress or damage to the mouth.

No. Trimming rabbit teeth is discouraged because teeth can split or become damaged. Additionally, it is important to investigate why the teeth have become too long in the first place.

Yes. When the incisors repeatedly become too long due to misalignment, removing the incisors can be a good permanent solution. Rabbits can usually function well without incisors, although certain foods may need to be offered in smaller pieces.

That depends on the cause. For some rabbits, a one-time treatment is sufficient, but with chronic abnormalities, spurs or other dental problems may recur. Regular check-ups are then important.

Yes. Hay and grass ensure prolonged chewing movements and thus contribute to the normal wear of teeth and molars. High-quality hay should therefore be the foundation of a rabbit’s diet.

If a rabbit stops eating entirely or produces hardly any droppings, it is advisable to contact a veterinarian the same day. Not eating can quickly lead to a serious disruption of intestinal function in rabbits.

A ZOO Bijzonder team

Meet our passionate team.

Our team consists of experienced veterinarians and veterinary nurses with a big heart for animals – large or small, exotic or everyday.

Rick

Karolien

Annemarie

Sharona

READY TO MAKE AN APPOINTMENT?

Or do you simply have a question about your animal? We are here for you – by phone, email, or WhatsApp.

Customer experiences

What our customers say

Attentive care isn’t just noticeable in your pet; you feel it as an owner too.
Read about our customers’ experiences at Zoo Bijzonder: