Here are some must haves for your new pet. 

• Species Specific Medicine Cabinet (see below for details)

• Species Specific Grooming Kit (see below for details)
• Species Specific Cage/Habitat - Rabbits need a wire bottom cage, Rats can be in Critter Nation cages, and mice can use plastic totes. 
• Food Bowls - We prefer heavy aluminum or ceramic for our rabbits and rats while small ceramic bowls work great for mice.
• Water Bottles - Lixit water bottles for both rabbits (32oz) , Rats (32oz CHEW PROOF), Mice (6-8oz CHEW PROOF)
• Species specific food - We feed PenPal 16% or 18% to our rabbits and Kalmbach 23% to our rodents
• Treats - Fruits, veggies for the rabbits, and fruits, veggies, candy, cereal and more for rodents
• Toys - Cat balls with bells in, TP rolls, Bells, pretty much anything they can throw around
• Carrier(s) - LARGE cat carriers work great for rabbits however rodents can get out of them. For rodents, use Critter Carriers from the local petstore.

Medicine Cabinet

So what should you have at home to help your new pet in case of an emergency??? Check out below for ideas, information and suggestions to make sure your pet is safe and healthy!

Rabbit First Aid Kit

Veterinary Contact Information

While you may not need to go to the vet regularly with a rabbit, it is a good idea to have his or her contact information on hand just in case of an emergency. Keeping a special binder labeled ANIMAL EMERGENCY and keeping it close by is a good idea. 

In here, you can have the contact information of your local exotic vet, your contact information, any medications your pet(s) is/are on, along with other instructions to help make sure your pet is happy and healthy in an emergency. This is also helpful if you have someone house sit or pet sit.

 

Gauze Pads, Q-Tips, & Vet Wrap

The typical assortment of bandages and cotton pads are very useful in caring for minor wounds or accidents. Gauze pads and cotton pads can be used for cleaning the area surrounding the wound and applying a disinfectant. Q-tips can be used for cleaning the area around the eyes or even cleaning out a rabbit’s scent glands.

Vet Wrap is our preferred choice of bandages as they wont stick to open wounds or the fur of the animal. These can be purchased at your local Tractor Supply or Farm Store.

 

Disinfectant Solution

Include a disinfectant solution in your first aid kit that you can apply to cuts and scrapes. You can get a pet-safe antimicrobial solution at your local pet store. Vitericyn is a trusted and often recommended brand (view Vitericyn here). This solution even comes in a spray bottle that makes it easy to apply to minor cuts.

You can also use hydrogen peroxide and dilute it with water. Add 1 part hydrogen peroxide to 20 parts water and mix the solution. This would look like ¼ cup of hydrogen peroxide added to 5 cups of water. You can put the solution in a spray bottle, or apply it on with your cotton pads.

 

Nail Clippers

I use dog nail clippers for all my rabbits. This is easier, safer and less stressful for both you and the rabbit. These can be purchased at any pet store or online. Keeping your pets nails trimmed with prevent injury to both you and the animal. Rabbits nails are extremely sharp and can cause serious damage if not maintained.

 

Styptic Powder/White All Purpose Flour

While many recommend Styptic Powder for stopping nails from bleeding in the case of cutting too short, I recommend white flour. This is safer for the rabbit to in-jest when the clear their feet after returning to their cage.

 

Syringes & Eye Droppers

Syringes and Eye Droppers can be used to administer medication. I use a variety of sized syringes and eye droppers as we have a few different kinds of animals here. 

Medication

Acid Pack (4-WAY)

4-WAY Acid Pack is used to aid the digestive and intestinal tract to hep promote mobility

Treats: Helps in preventing diarrhea and restores the flora (good bacteria) in the gut

Dosage: this medication is a water soluble powder and can be mixed at 1 teaspoon per gallon of water and given for 10 days

Aureomycin

Aureomycin is an antobiotic

Treats: bacterial and respiratory infections, enteritis and also helps in stopping diarrhea

Dosage #1: Prevention: mix 1 teaspoon per gallon of water, use as drinking water for 10 days

Dosage #2: Treatment: mix as directed above, orally syinge - 1cc per pound of body weight, daily as needed

Notes: when using antibiotics, be sure to gollow up with a dose of probiotic.

Anbol

Anbol is a sulfa-based Coccidiastat.

Treats: parasitic eradication for Coccidiosis (aka Coccidia)

Dose: orally syringe – 1cc per 5-pound body weight, 2x daily, for 10 consecutive days

Notes: requires Vet Rx

Aspirin

Aspirin is a pain reliever.

Treats: mild to moderate pain reliever

Dose: human grade / low dose tablet – 81mg, crushed and mixed in water, orally syringe – 2x daily, as needed

NOTE: Bayer or St. Joseph’s Brand chewable, 81mg/low dose tablet – do not give to pregnant or nursing does, or kits under 12wks of age, those dehydrated, or for GI probl

Bag Balm

Bag Balm is a topical antiseptic ointment.

Treats: antiseptic ointment for sore hocks and wounds

Dose: apply liberally to affected area, 2-3x daily, as needed

Notes:

Barium Suspension

Barium Suspension is an anti-diarrhea agent.

Treats: stops diarrhea and for relief of pain associated with it

Dose: as prescribed by Vet

Notes: requires Vet Rx

Banamine

Banamine is a pain reliever.

Treats: relieves pain

Dose: 1cc every 12-24hours, injected into the muscle or under the skin

Note: intramuscular or Sub-Q injection – Do Not Use with Gas-Drops; *Use with Famotidine (Antacid) – given 1 hour after all other meds

Baytril

Baytril is an antibiotic.

Treats: antibiotic primarily used for respiratory infections

Dose: per body pound, as prescribed

Notes: intramuscular injection – Requires Vet Rx to purchase

Benebac

Benebac is a probiotic.

Treats: probiotic used for restoring flora in gut, GI issues, and prevents diarrhea

Dose: give pea sized amount 2x daily, directly in mouth, as needed

Notes: paste – use as a follow-up after antibiotic meds have been given

Birch

Birch is a pain reliever.

Treats: pain reliever and maintains healthy teeth

Dose: moderate amount given as a treat, as often as needed

Notes: bark from a Birch Tree – make sure chemicals have not been sprayed on the tree

Blackberry

Blackberry is an antidiarrheal agent.

Treats: stops diarrhea

Dose: moderate amount given as needed

Notes: leaves and branches/twigs from a Blackberry bush – make sure chemicals have not been sprayed on the bush

Bloat Slurry

Bloat Slurry is a mix of ingredients used for GI Mobility and Intestinal problems.

Treats: Bloat and dehydration due to bloat

Dose: 1/3 cup warm water, 1 eye dropper-full of Infant Gas Drops, 1 teaspoon Probiotic, 1 teaspoon Electrolyte powder – mix well. Orally syringe 1cc per body pound, every 2 hours (up to 24cc per 24hour period)

Notes: can thicken with canned pumpkin if preferred

Celery

Celery is a natural diuretic that increases appetite.

Treats: encourages rabbit to eat when he/she’s gone off of pellets

Dose: 2-3” piece, as needed

Notes: wash veggies before feeding, leaves and stalks

Cranberry

Cranberries, in dried form, are a natural antibacterial agent.

Treats: antibacterial agent for bladder infection

Dose 1: 4-5 berries as needed, in moderation

Dose 2: add 6-12cc sugar-free juice to gallon water, given as drinking water

Notes:

Chamomile

Chamomile is a natural stress and pain reliever.

Treats: relieves pain, soothes stress, and cleans eyes

Dose: moderate amount given as needed

Notes:

Colloidal Silver

Colloidal Silver is a topical antibiotic.

Treats: bacterial/fungal/viral infections of the skin / external areas of the body

Dose: use as needed / can not over-dose on it

Notes: topical cream – or spray for use on eyes, nose, and ears – known as the safest form of antibiotic – also safe for humans

Calcium Drench

Calcium Drench induces labor and used for retained or mummified kits.

Treats: replaces calcium lost during birthing and induces labor, helps pass retained kits and/or mummified kits

Dose: 1-3cc per day, as needed

Notes: liquid *For Goats

Corid(aka Amprol)

Corid is a coccidiastat.

Treats: parasitic eradication for Coccidiosis (aka Coccidia)

Dose 1: prevent: mix 1teaspoon per gallon water; give as drinking water – 5 days on / 5 off / 5 on

Dose 2: treat: mix as directed above, give for 21 consecutive days

Notes: liquid – can give daily, rabbits can not over-dose on it

Critical Care

Critical Care is a nutritional supplement.

Treats: provides nutrients and aids in digestion for rabbits that have stopped eating

Dose: follow instructions given on package

Notes: Thickened liquid for syringe feedings

Dandelion

Dandelion is a natural plant that has has multiple beneficial qualities.

Treats: increases milk flow, appetite, helps treat respiratory problems, acts as an astringent & helps regulate both constipation and diarrhea

Dose: moderate amount as needed

Notes: *If plant is wilted or fermenting, it can cause bloat!

Dill

Fresh dill leaves are a natural food to increase appetite.

Treats: increases appetite for rabbits that have gone off feed

Dose: moderate amount given as needed

Notes: make sure no chemicals or sprays have been use on the plants

Di-Methox

Di-Methox is an antibiotic.

Treats: antibiotic / Enteritis and bacterial infections

Dose 1: Prevent: given 5 days on / 5 off / 5 off… 2x per year

Dose 2: Treat: given for 21 consecutive days when outbreak occurs

Notes: mix 1 teaspoon per gallon water, given as drinking water follow treatments with probiotic

Dura-pen (aka Pen-G)

Dura-pen is an antibiotic.
Treats: abscesses, open wounds, other suspected forms of bacterial infections

Dose: give 1cc per 10 pound body weight – injected under the skin, typically 1x daily for 3-5 days

Notes: liquid Sub-Q injection- very strong, not suggested for nursing does or kits under 14weeks – follow up with probiotic

Echinacea

Echinacea is a natural antibiotic, anti-viral, and anti-inflamatory agent.

Treats: antibiotic (in high doses) for bacterial and viral infections, boosts immune system, and is an anti-inflammatory agent

Dose: 2-4 capsules emptied into gallon of water, boil, and store for use – OR add 3-6 leafs as treats

Notes: can be used in leaf or capsule form

Enema

Enema’s are for use of extreme cases of diarrhea &/or constipation.

Treats: extreme / severe cases of diarrhea/constipation involving bloated stomach

Dose: 2 Tablespoons of WARM water with 3 drops of laxative-grade mineral oil
1- mix well
2- Only administer rectally with a well lubricated Rubber-tipped Pediatric Ear Bulb Syringe
3- Only insert well-lubricated tip NO further than ½ – ¾ inch into rabbits anus (while securely holding rabbit on it’s back)
4- Give mixture (as directed above /#1) @: full dose amount for 10 pound rabbit – ½ dose for 5 pound rabbit… continue dose amount based on 10lb body weight)
5- BE GENTLE – Never force!… Slowly empty contents into rabbits rectum. Hold rabbit in position on his back for *no less than 30 seconds to allow mixture to enter gi tract
6- Sit rabbit up as normal – place hand under lower stomach region to lift his rear end up slightly for mixture to further into intestines… then allow nature to take its course

Notes: This is effective even when Sub-Q hydration fails. *Follow instructions carefully!

 

Fennel

Fennel is a natural plant that stimulates milk production and helps treat bloat.

Treats: bloating, gas, and increases milk flow

Dose: moderate amount given as needed

Notes:

Flax seed

Flax seed is a coat conditioner and GI lubricant.

Treats: lubricates intestinal tract and promotes healthy fur condition

Dose: crushed/powdered seeds – sprinkle 1/4 teaspoon on feed, daily

Notes: water-soluble, so it is slippery but not oil-based

Garlic

Garlic is a natural antibiotic and anti-inflamatory food.

Treats: antibiotic and antiseptic for bloat, gas, and natural wormer

Dose: small amount given as needed

Notes: Too strong for kits and older rabbits

Ginger

Ginger is a natural plant to increase fertility.

Treats: increases fertility in bucks

Dose: sprinkle 1-2 teaspoons on pellets as needed

Notes: safe to use daily

Goats milk

Goats milk is the best milk replacer for supplementing or hand-rearing kits.

Treats: supplement or milk replacer for nursing kits

Dose: moderately given as needed

Notes: Use at room temperature – never cold or chilled

Grass

Grass is the easiest to get natural product for gut mobility issues.

Treats: increases gut mobility

Dose: moderate amount given as needed

Notes: make sure its chemical free / unsprayed

Grape leaves

Grape leaves are one of the best appetite stimulants.

Treats: increases appetite

Dose: moderate amount given as needed

Notes: use fresh or dried out, never wilted or fermented – make sure its chemical free / unsprayed

Ivermec

Ivermec is a very strong wormer.

Treats: eradication of most internal and external parasites

Dose 1: Oral Horse Paste: 1 pea sized drop, squeezed directly into mouth – 1x daily for 5 days on / 5 off / 5 on
Dose 2: Topical Cattle Liquid: pour into *gloved hands, thoroughly rub into fur/on body
Dose 3: Liquid Swine Injection: 1/10thcc (.1)cc per 10 pound body weight, injected under skin

Notes: very strong – do not over-medicate

Imodium is an anti-diarrheal agent.

Treats: Enteritis and other causes of diarrhea

Dose: 1cc, orally syringed, every 4-8 hours as needed

Notes: can increase to 2cc for Giant breeds over 15 pounds if diarrhea is severe

Kale

Kale is a natural appetite stimulant which is high in calcium.

Treats: increases appetite

Dose: moderate amount given as needed

Notes: wash before feeding

LA-200

LA-200 is an antibiotic.
Treats: broad spectrum antibiotic for bacterial and respiratory infections

Dose: liquid Sub-Q injection – 1cc per 10 pound body weight – injected under skin, 1x daily for up to 10 days

Notes:

Lactated ringers w/ Sterile Saline Solution

Lactated Ringers filled with sterile saline solution is for hydration therapy

Treats: SubQ (under skin) or Intravenous (in vein) Dehydration

Dose: 10cc administered per IV injection into vein or under skin during a 24 hour period

Notes: can increase dose if diarrhea is severe – per Vet instruction …. *Do Not attempt Vein injection unless you absolutely know EXACTLY what you are doing!

Lavender

Lavender is a circulation stimulant.

Treats: induces labor and reduces stress

Dose: small amount, sparingly, and only as needed

Notes: the flowers are a tranquilizer – lowers blood pressure

Licorise root

Licorice is a natural laxative.

Treats: relieves bloat and constipation

Dose: very small amount, only given when needed

Notes: high in sugar, hard to digest

Listerine mouthwash

Listerine mouthwash is an antiseptic and mite killer.

Treats: kills fur mites

Dose: pour small amounts onto your hands and rub liberally thru fur to make contact with skin over the body, from base of neck to tail, stomach, legs, and chest

Notes: don’t soak the rabbit, apply in small amounts – do not use on open sores

Marquis (aka Ponazuril)

Marquis is a coccidiastat.

Treats: 100% parasitic eradication for Coccidiosis (Coccidia)

Dose: as prescribed by Vet

Notes: Requires Vet Rx

Metacam

Metacam is a pain reliever.

Treats: pain

Dose: use as prescribed by Vet

Notes: *Requires Vet Rx

Mint

Mint is a natural treatment for Mastitis and has multiple other benefits.

Treats: Dries up milk-flow, stimulates liver, digestion, and bile flow

Dose: ok to feed moderately to bucks and dry does; 2-3 leaf’s, 1-2x weekly

Notes: Do not give to nursing does or young kits – harvest just before flowering

 

Mulberry leaves and twigs

Mulberry leaf’s and twigs induces labor and stimulates appetite.

Treats: increases appetite and induces labor

Dose: given in moderation, as needed

Notes: make sure it chemical free / unsprayed

Mineral oil

Mineral oil is an oral laxative.

Treats: intestinal stimulate for constipation and intestinal blockage

Dose: mix 1 drop (from eye-dropper) to 3cc of water – orally syringe

Notes: use sparingly, be cautious of dehydration

Neosporin (Triple antibiotic cream)

Neosporin is an antibacterial ointment.

Treats: bacterial infections from injuries and abscesses

Dose: apply topical cream / salve liberally on affected area, 1-3x daily as needed

Notes: when possible, cover area with bandage to prevent rabbit from licking it off

Neomycin Sulfate

Neomycin Sulfate is an antibacterial agent.

Treats: kills intestinal bacteria

Dose: 1 teaspoon per gallon water

Notes: can be toxic to rabbits – can cause deafness, & problems in bloodstream, muscles, liver, brain, and kidneys

Oats

Oats is safely used as a daily diet additive.

Treats: increases appetite, aids in digestion and gut mobility, increases milk flow in lactating does

Dose: ¼ – ½ cup daily as needed

Notes: rolled, steamed, or whole grain varieties

Oil

Oil, of any variety (Olive, Veggie, Baby, or Mineral), is a great cure for external mites.

Treats: soothes itching and kills ear mites

Dose: apply liberally to ears, 1x daily as needed

Notes: coat skin on ears, do not pick off ‘sores’ – as this is cause infection to set it

Oxytetracycline

Oxytetracycline is an antibiotic.

Treats: broad spectrum antibiotic for viral and bacterial infections

Dose: Sub-Q injection at 1cc per 5 pound body weight

Notes: Follow up with probiotic

Oxytocin

Oxytocin is a stong labor-inducer.

Treats: induces labor and aids in passing retained kits

Dose: .1 to .2cc, injected Sub-Q(under skin) or IM(intramuscular)

Notes: Use cautiously, can cause severe abdominal cramping if comes in contact with human skin – do not give more than one dose, may take a while to act

Panacur

Panacur is a paste for parasitic eradication.

Treats: eradication of internal worms

Dose: pea sized drop of (horse) paste, for 28 days

Notes: especially effective for E. Cuniculi

Papaya

Papaya is a digestive & gut mobility aid.

Treats: aids in digestions and gut mobility, especially in cases of wool block

Dose: moderate amount given as needed

Notes: can feed fresh, dried (as “gummy treats”), or via Enzyme Tablets (chewable or crushed and added in water for syringe feeding)

Parsley

Parsley is a digestive and gut mobility aid.

Treats: helps with intestinal blockage and constipation, and aids in gut mobility

Dose: given in moderate amounts as needed

Notes: if fresh, wash before feeding

Pedialyte

Pedialyte is for electrolyte and hydration therapy.

Treats: de-hydration and replaces lost electrolytes when rabbits stop drinking/eating

Dose: 3cc, orally syringed, every 4-6 hours as needed

Notes:

Pepto-Bismol

Pepto-Bismol is an antidiarrheal agent.

Treats: Enteritis and other causes of diarrhea

Dose: 1cc per 10 pound body weight, orally syringed, every 6-8hours as needed

Notes: human grade

Pineapple

Pineapple is a digestive and gut mobility aid.

Treats: stops diarrhea, improves gut mobility

Dose 1: Juice – add to drinking water or syringe
Dose 2:Fresh – 2-3” piece
Dose 3: Canned – No Sugar, 2 chunks

Notes: can be given as needed or as a treat 1-3x weekly

Plantain

Plantain is a gut and intestinal mobility aid.

Treats: stops diarrhea, relieves gas, regulates intestines

Dose: given in moderation, as needed (broad leaf or lance leaf)

Notes: safe to feed about a handful amount daily – make sure its chemical free / unsprayed

Probiotics

Probiotics are digestive aids.

Treats: restores healthy levels of flora in the gut after use of antibiotics, and for rabbits that have stopped eating/drinking for various reasons

Dose: mix 1 teaspoon per 6cc of water, orally syringe 3-6x daily as needed

Notes: water soluble powder (ProBios, Enhance, and other brand-names)can not over-dose on it

Pumpkin

Pumpkin is an appetite stimulant.

Treats: increases appetite, helps with gut mobility

Dose: ¼ cup as needed, in moderation

Notes: canned / whole pumpkin … can be fed by syringe if needed

Pumpkin seeed with Grapefruit extract

Pumpkin with Grapefruit seed extract acts as a wormer.

Treats: parasitic eradication / wormer

Dose: 10 drops per gallon of water, given as drinking water for 21 days

Notes: given as needed

Raspberry leaves

Raspberry leaf’s and twigs are for prevention and treatment of labor and delivery problems.

Treats: aids in passing retained kits, induces labor, increases fertility, and aids in gut mobility

Dose: given in moderation, as needed

Notes: safe as a first greens food for young kits – make sure its chemical free / un-sprayed

Reglan (Metocplopramide)

Reglan is a muscle stimulant of the upper GI tract.

Treats: stimulates GI mobility

Dose: as prescribed per Vet

Notes: case study results show little if any true benefit of treating bloat-related issues

Safe-Guard

Safe-Guard is a wormer.

Treats: eradicates forms of internal parasites

Dose: 1 pea sized drop of paste (or horses), directly squeezed into mouth – given for 5 consecutive days, 2x yearly

Notes: does not treat Coccidiosis – also see Panacur

Simethicone (Gas-X / Infant colic drops)

Simethicone is for the relief of gas.

Treats:Bloat / relieves build up of gas in stomach and relief of pain from that

Dose: 1-2cc – orally syringed every 4 hours as needed

Notes: the same as given to human infants to treat Colic

Silver Sulfadiazine

Silver Sulfadiazine is an antiseptic / antibacterial agent.

Treats: antiseptic for abscesses, wounds, and other external infections

Dose: topical cream / salve -apply liberally affected areas

Notes: *see Colloidal Silver / Highly effective, fast results

Strawberry

Strawberry, the whole plant, is helpful in miscarriage prevention and as an antiseptic.

Treats: prevents miscarriage and cools body, also antiseptic treatment, and external inflammation

Dose: given all or any part of the plant, when/as needed

Notes: leaves are high in iron

Sub-Q Hydration

Sub-Q Hydration is for de-hydration.

Treats: re-hydrates rabbits that have severe diarrhea due to Enteritis and other causes

Dose: lactated ringer with sterilized water for injection… 50-100cc injected under the skin – per 24hrs

Notes: quickly absorbed into the body – often shows fast results…. *Do Not inject into muscle or vein

Sulmet

Sulmet is A coccidiastat.

Treats: sulfa-based antibiotic for bacterial and respiratory infections

Dose: UN-Diluted – orally syringe 1cc per 2 pound body weight for 5 days

Notes: follow up with probiotic — *Do Not use for nursing does or kits under 4 months of age

Sulfaquinoxaline

Sulfaquinoxaline is for parastic control and eradication.

Treats: Coccidiosis and Enteritis

Dose 1: Prevent: water soluble powder mixed 1 teaspoon per gallon water, given as daily drinking water

Dose 2: Treat: mix as directed above – given 21 consecutive days when outbreak occurs

Notes:

Sweet Potato

Sweet Potato is an appetite stimulant.

Treats: increases appetite

Dose: 2-3” piece, raw – can be given 2-3x weekly

Notes: causes weight gain

Terramycin ointment

Terramycin ointment is for eye infections.

Treats: infections in the eyes

Dose: apply ointment / salve to infected eye 2-3x daily, as needed

Notes:

Thyme

Thyme is for parasitic control and anti-diarrhea agent.

Treats: acts as a wormer and aid in stopping diarrhea

Dose: (crushed) sprinkle 1 teaspoon on feed as needed

Notes: if rabbit is not eating, can mix into canned pumpkin and orally syringed

Tultrazuril (aka BAYCOX / PONAZURIL)

Tultrazuril is a coccidiastat.

Treats: parasitic eradication for Coccidiosis

Dose 1: Prevent: mix 5cc per gallon water – given as drinking water, 5 days on/ 5 off / 5 on
Dose 2: Treat: mix as directed above – given for 21 consecutive days when outbreak occurs

Notes: *2.5% oral Solution, liquid -_ 100% parasite eradication – *Do Not give to pregnant/nursing or kits under 8 weeks — follow up with probiotics

Vanodine – V18

Vanodine is an amazing non-toxic biocide which kills germs, bacteria, fungus, and viruses.

Treats: Pasteurella, E.Coli, Salmonella, Bacteroides Necrophorus, Anthrax, viral and bacterial infections, disinfects, sanitizes, and sterilizes

Dose : mix 1tsp per gallon water, no rinsing required –can be stored long periods and used as needed
Dose 1: SANITIZE – cover all surface areas and allow to dry
Dose 2: FOOT BATHS – cover entry ways and floor/ground to prevent spread of disease
Dose 3: AERIAL DISINFECTANT – spray in the air
Dose 4: WATER – add to drinking water daily
Dose 5: TREAT – safe to spray in eyes, nose, mouth, open wounds, to drink, and to fully sanitize
Notes 1: will stain clothing & possibly skin…. This used to be known as “a miracle in a bottle”.
Notes 2: No longer available in the US (there is a “knock-off” in the US, but it’s not as strong as the original product)/ available in other countries, mfg in England

*DISCLAIMER: This information is not to be used in replacement of a certified Veterinarian. Every medication of any form has the possibilities of side-effects. Those side-effects, & the results of them, may vary greatly from rabbit to rabbit & all may be affected by various other elements such as other medications, foods, age & health, & other things. With this said, the statements here-in are not written as an absolute answer or guarantee; these are simply common treatments used by those who have experienced successful results with such, but in no way guarantee the same results for every situation. Furthermore, we do not claim to be vet’s, nor are we in any way liable or responsible for any results, be it positive or negative, due to the use of the information stated within. Use of any information offered is done so fully at your own risk.

 

*DISCLOSURE:

(Please note: we are not and we do not in any way claim to be veterinarians; no information offered should be considered as that which has came from a professional veterinarian, and we are in no way liable for any information noted. We always advise contacting a veterinarian who is licensed and is experienced in rabbit care. Furthermore, all information contained within this section is without guarantee of success; all information is gained from experienced rabbit-breeders who have tried these home-treatments with successful results – however – note that what may work for one rabbit, may not work for all. *Any treatments noted that you choose to use, is done so at your own liability and risk!!!)

Rabbit Grooming Kit

Slicker Brush

Using a slicker brush will help prevent your pet rabbits from getting hairballs. By brushing your pet rabbit weekly, you can keep them all neat and clean.

 

Nail Clippers

As stated in the Rabbit First Aid Kit list, we use and recommend nail clippers that are used on dogs. These are easy to use and are less stressful for both you and the rabbit.

 

Dry Shampoo

Dry shampoo is an amazing tool to have when grooming your pet rabbit. Since you can NOT bathe your rabbit in water like you would your dog or cat, this helps maintain a healthy coat.

 

Cotton Balls

Cotton Balls are used to clean out the ears and around the eyes of your pet.

 

Q-Tips

These can be used to help clean the scent glands of your pet rabbit. While not needed, it is recommended to check them once a month and if they are blocked, use a q-tip to gently remove the blocked glands. 

 

Unscented or Cucumber Baby Wipes

Baby wipes have many uses when caring for your rabbit. They can be used to clean their bottoms in case of messy potty time, clean paws if dirty, and general cleaning of their enclosure.

 

Rodent First Aid Kit

Veterinary Contact Information

While you may not need to go to the vet regularly with a rabbit, it is a good idea to have his or her contact information on hand just in case of an emergency. Keeping a special binder labeled ANIMAL EMERGENCY and keeping it close by is a good idea. 

In here, you can have the contact information of your local exotic vet, your contact information, any medications your pet(s) is/are on, along with other instructions to help make sure your pet is happy and healthy in an emergency. This is also helpful if you have someone house sit or pet sit.

 

Gauze Pads, Q-Tips, & Vet Wrap

The typical assortment of bandages and cotton pads are very useful in caring for minor wounds or accidents. Gauze pads and cotton pads can be used for cleaning the area surrounding the wound and applying a disinfectant. 

Vet Wrap is our preferred choice of bandages as they wont stick to open wounds or the fur of the animal. These can be purchased at your local Tractor Supply or Farm Store.

 

Disinfectant Solution

Include a disinfectant solution in your first aid kit that you can apply to cuts and scrapes. You can get a pet-safe antimicrobial solution at your local pet store. Vitericyn is a trusted and often recommended brand (view Vitericyn here). This solution even comes in a spray bottle that makes it easy to apply to minor cuts.

You can also use hydrogen peroxide and dilute it with water. Add 1 part hydrogen peroxide to 20 parts water and mix the solution. This would look like ¼ cup of hydrogen peroxide added to 5 cups of water. You can put the solution in a spray bottle, or apply it on with your cotton pads.

 

Nail Clippers

I use human toenail clippers for all my rodents. This is easier, safer and less stressful for both you and the rabbit. These can be purchased at any pet store or online. Keeping your pets nails trimmed with prevent injury to both you and the animal. Rodents nails are extremely sharp and can cause serious damage if not maintained.

 

Styptic Powder

While many recommend Styptic Powder for stopping nails from bleeding in the case of cutting too short, I recommend white flour. This is safer for the animal to in-jest when the clear their feet after returning to their cage.

 

Syringes & Eye Droppers

Syringes and Eye Droppers can be used to administer medication. I use a variety of sized syringes and eye droppers as we have a few different kinds of animals here. 

 

Critical Care

This is probably the FIRST thing you should add to your Pet Medicine Cabinet. Sometimes, animals refuse to eat, get ill, are on antibiotics and just don't look well. While there are several factors in the health or lack there of in your new pet, Critical Care provides that extra boost they need to get back to the 100% healthy animal you know and love. 

 

Pedialyte/Zero Sugar Gatorade

I have used both sugar free Gatorade and pedialyte to help rehydrate our animals incase of dehydration. While this is unavoidable, it can happen. Making sure your pet has fresh water daily will help prevent dehydration however, we can't be home 24/7. On super hot days, dilute 1 part Gatorade/Pedialyte with 2 parts water. Add this to their water bottle and this will help prevent dehydration on super hot days or if you are going to be gone for several hours.

Local Veterinarians that see exotic animals

Yes, rabbits, rats, mice, reptiles, amphibians, arachnids, and many more are considered EXOTIC animals. Pretty much anything other than a dog or cat is considered exotic. Part of owning an exotic pet is vet care. While not always a scheduled visit, emergencies happen and you need to know who can or will see your new pet. 

*Disclaimer:

We are not a licensed veterinary office, Any medical advice we provide is based solely on our personal experience. Below, you will find a list of vets that either we have personally used or someone that has gotten animals from us has recommended. For ALL Bloomington/Normal vets listed, we can vouch for them as excellent clinics and would recommend them to anyone that purchases from us. Please click the link for the vet you wish to see to go directly to their site. For questions on pricing, hours and more, contact the vet clinic directly.

 

*Please be aware that vet care for exotics is extremely expensive. While it doesn't happen often, emergencies happen and you need to be prepared.