Rabbits are characteristically timid and excitable. As rabbits are a terrestrial prey species, being picked up is likely an innately stressful experience for them (McBride, 2017). Rabbits possess a relatively lightweight, delicate skeleton paired with extremely strong, well-developed back and leg muscles. For more advice from our Veterinary co-author, like how to safely pick up a rabbit, read on! To prevent compression of the chest, the front limbs of the rabbit are placed over one hand. Use a towel to wrap around the rabbit and hold the rabbit to stop it from jumping out (see photo 3 My bunny always starts to eat the towel. My son will be home in 15 minutes and I can't let him know I killed his rabbit. For example, Swennes et al. These holding methods can hurt a rabbit and cause unnecessary stress. Animals become much easier to handle if they are trained and accustomed to handling. Also, double check to to see if you are allowed to bring a pet from one country to another. Can I take it from Hong Kong to the US with me over the summer? If a rabbit violently resists physical restraint, it should be immediately released and approached later when it has calmed down. It also demonstrates techniques for subcutaneous injection, claw clipping, teeth and ear inspections, and intravenous ear injection. The correct method of handling a rabbit is to grasp the skin at the back of its neck firmly but gently with one hand, and to support the rump with the other hand. They are ground (and subterranean) dwelling. Holding Use the same technique but the hand under the rump is moved to support the abdomen. Remember that rabbits have powerful hind legs- and they use them if they get stressed even if they are generally docile. Be safe Hold rabbits gently but firmly, ensure one hand supports their back and hindquarters at all time. She has worked at the same animal clinic in her hometown for over 20 years. This is more common in the case of hutch-housed rabbits that have poor bone quality and have very little exercise. http://www.ahwla.org.uk/site/tutorials/BVA/BVA08-Rabbit/Rabbit.html, https://www.aspca.org/sites/default/files/upload/images/rabbit_edu.pdf, http://vetmed.duhs.duke.edu/GuidelinesforRabbitTechniques.html, consider supporting our work with a contribution to wikiHow. The multiple flaps perform two functions: they are adjustable around the subject for effective yet comfortable restraint, and can be closed or left open for access, depending on the procedure. Picking Up Grab scruff of the neck with one hand and lifting up while placing the other hand under the rump for support or wrap patient securely in a towel. Proper restraint and handling techniques are essential for reducing stress to laboratory animals and the handler. (304) 736-8555 | helpforanimals2@gmail.com. One should never try to overpower a struggling rabbit. Or, you can wrap a towel around the rabbit so only its head is peeking out, which will prevent it from moving around. The other hand is then gently worked under the rear quarters to fully support them as the rabbit is lifted upwards, in the same manner as cats are held. Rabbits have powerful hindlimbs, which can kick out and lead to broken backs. 2. The use of appropriate and skilled handling is essential to ensure that animals readily accept or actively seek human contact and … Rabbits equal to over 3.5kg receive 125 grams of diet daily. Rabbits should never be held by the ears; they should be scruffed at the neck, and the body firmly supported at the rump. Handling Rabbits . She graduated from the University of Glasgow in 1987 with a degree in veterinary medicine and surgery. Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 29,223 times. (2011) suggested that handling rabbits (by scruffing and supporting the Rabbits who aren't used to being picked up can bite, scratch or even kick their owners. by Simon Chadwick. It would be no different then taking a dog or cat on a plane. Try not to pick up your rabbit very often. If you are concerned about being scratched by the claws, place a towel over the rabbit's back and wrap it around the body to restrain all 4 feet before picking up the rabbit. This article was co-authored by Pippa Elliott, MRCVS. Dr. Elliott, BVMS, MRCVS is a veterinarian with over 30 years of experience in veterinary surgery and companion animal practice. The rabbit's hind end must be supported as it is removed from its cage. This article discusses safe handling and restraint of pet rabbits in the consulting room in the interests of animal welfare and staff safety. Handling & Restraint. Handling and Restraint a. In the wild the only time they would be picked up would be if they were about to become a predator’s dinner. By signing up you are agreeing to receive emails according to our privacy policy. To restrain a rabbit, cradle it in one arm so its head is tucked slightly under your elbow, and place your other hand on top of it, almost like you're holding a football. Last Updated: October 14, 2020 Our own pet rabbits can find this just as alarming, because fear of being lifted is hardwired into their genes. Use age appropriate language to explain. The handling of rabbits is one such management area. Please help us continue to provide you with our trusted how-to guides and videos for free by whitelisting wikiHow on your ad blocker. Handling and restraint for rabbits Rabbits have very powerful hind legs. % of people told us that this article helped them. If you really can’t stand to see another ad again, then please consider supporting our work with a contribution to wikiHow. Handling and Restraint. Not the leaves, only the flower? If they kick out unrestrained, the result may be spinal, pelvic or limb fractures. A rabbit's spine is relatively lightweight and fragile. SOP #100.2 Rabbit Husbandry Effective 10/05 Page 4 of 5 2. The safest initial approach with rabbits is to begin by stroking the top of the head. You can make restraining a rabbit easier by knowing how to approach your rabbit, pick him up, and keep him calm. By using our site, you agree to our. Try pulling the rabbit in closer to your body. When a rabbit becomes frightened, it violently struggles by powerfully kicking its back legs. Handling and Restraint: Rabbits are especially susceptible to the effects of stress and should always be approached in a calm and confident manner. SWMS Rabbit- Sexing, Handling and Restraint Page 4 30/05/2019 • Alternatively, once you have removed the rabbit from the pen or the cage, place the rabbit into the base of a rat cage. Never lift a … You might also want to contact a vet's office before he gets home for some advice on how to talk to your son about losing a pet. Handling and Restraint. The lightning-fast movements of the rear legs cause overextension of the lumbosacral (lower back) region of the spine, which frequently results in fractures or dislocations. If you weren't being rough, there may have been an underlying condition that caused the rabbit to pass away. Permanent methods include tattooing or the use of an ink or dye. Improper handling may cause serious, life-threatening injuries. Rabbits must not be picked up by the ears or hind legs. ... Rabbits under 3.5kg receive 150 grams of diet daily. If improper restraint allows the rabbit to struggle or kick powerfully, they are in danger of breaking their back or a leg. Support the hindquarters and back with other. Rabbits scare easily, so it is important to go slow when you pick up your rabbit. 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