Content
- Does rabbit take a shower?
- how to clean the rabbit
- How to prepare a rabbit's bath
- What to do during the shower
- how to dry the rabbit
- More information about rabbits
- Perhaps you are also interested in knowing...
Many people ask if rabbit can bathe. The doubt has precedents, since, in addition to being very clean and constantly cleaning themselves, like cats, have a protective layer on the skin they could be removed with bathing and are also very sensitive, so soaking them in water can cause stress and anxiety.
However, other people believe that, on the contrary, it is good to bathe rabbits, as this helps to eliminate loose hair and remove urine and feces that may accumulate on the underside of the coat, as they are in their resting space.
At PeritoAnimal, we believe that both parties have points in their favor, and balancing the two options is our recommendation. Yes, you can bathe your rabbit, but you need to take into account some important points and do it only a few times a year, or if you notice that your pet it's too dirty. In this article by PeritoAnimal, we will teach you all about it.
Does rabbit take a shower?
Generally, it is not recommended to bathe rabbits, unless it is extremely dirty. As we said, rabbits, like cats, are animals that continually clean themselves.
Bathing a rabbit can even be harmful, as it can panic as well as shock in the water and end up injuring itself dangerously. In addition, its fur is so fine that it takes a long time to dry, making the pet at risk of getting cold and suffering from other problems such as hypothermia, pneumonia and respiratory infections.[1]
You should only bathe the animal when you are clearly instructed by a experienced veterinarian specialized in rabbits. Thus, it is recommended to evaluate the possibility of bathing our rabbit in these cases:
- If the rabbit is very dirty.
- If you are changing your fur.
- If it has a lot of hair and is too long (it falls off more easily).
If you are unsure whether or not to wash your rabbit, it is best to consult a veterinarian.
how to clean the rabbit
If you want to clean your bunny, know that there are different ways to do this. It's important to know how to handle it, always with great caution and without sudden movements.
Brushing it should be a constant practice, as this helps to maintain your hygiene by preventing the accumulation of hair and dirt. For this you can use brushes with soft bristles - which should always be washed after each use.
Another option for cleaning the rabbit is using a wet cotton. In a cup or basin, mix the water with a pH neutral soap or shampoo, those suitable for babies, moisten the cotton and pass it on the dirty areas of the hair. Prevent water from getting on his skin.
Now, if it's really necessary to give the rabbit a bath, we'll explain how you should do it below.
How to prepare a rabbit's bath
The bath must be a relaxing moment for your rabbit and should not pose any stress to the animal. Pick a time when you have the time and patience. Prepare a sink, washbasin or even a basin that is not deep. Never force him, treat him with lots of love and talk to him gently to avoid traumatizing him.
Bathing a rabbit is no fun, be careful do not immerse the pet entirely in water, many rabbits have died from this type of water trauma. So, do everything very carefully. the water level should never be higher than his belly level.
The water temperature should be neither too cold nor too hot, but a nice warm water, like for a baby. No bathing the rabbit in a cold season, it's preferable to do it when it's hot. Avoid water contact with your skin as much as possible.
And you should also not use items to "relax" the rabbit, such as bath salts, bubbles, or substances that can be toxic. Remember that rabbits have extremely sensitive skin.
What to do during the shower
you can use a soap with special pH for rabbits, neutral soap or shampoo for babies (this will help reduce redness or irritation in the eyes if you drop it), then, as per the usual instructions, lightly rinse with small amounts of water with your hands to each area of the pet's body.
Do not wet your face directly and much less your ears. Do this to prevent the soap reach the nose and mouth. No use of your own soap or shampoo, even if it's natural!
Another important point you should know about how to bathe a rabbit is that you should not enjoy this bath time to cut your nails, hair or to brush it. The bath time is just for the bath and avoiding more stress is essential.
Perhaps you might be interested in this other PeritoAnimal article in which we explain the differences between the rabbit and the hare.
how to dry the rabbit
Continuing with our step by step on how to bathe rabbits, after finishing the rinse, removing all the soap or shampoo, have a dry towel nearby.
Take the rabbit and wrap it in the towel, hugging the furry one for a few minutes. With that, you will give him safety and will help you not to get cold.
Then let it dry naturally. And don't use a hair dryer, as the device can be invasive, scare him and burn him. Remember again that your skin is very sensitive. Before taking the rabbit to the cage or space in which it lives, make sure it is completely dry.
As you saw, rabbit can take a bath, but only if it is recommended by a veterinarian. or in very specific situations. And if you have a rabbit as a furry best friend, how about watching the video below for the signs that your rabbit loves you?
More information about rabbits
Perhaps you are also interested in knowing...
- rabbit vaccines
- Sick Rabbit - 15 Signs of Pain in Rabbits
- How to make rabbit toys
If you want to read more articles similar to Can you bathe a rabbit?, we recommend that you enter our Skin Care section.