Excessive itching in a rabbit

When your rabbit constantly scratches itself excessively, it may have a problem that needs to be resolved. Excessive itching can be a symptom and indicate the presence of an allergy.

The owner can identify if the itching exceeds the acceptable limit. Notice if the animal interrupts an activity, such as eating, drinking water or playing, to scratch itself. Several problems can cause itchy rabbits, but fortunately, they are all treatable.

Itching may be due to skin or ear parasites, dry skin, allergies or infections. It is important to care for and treat immediately for the good and safety of your pet.

Find out what can cause your rabbit to itch excessively:

Skin mites

Mites are blood-sucking parasites that bite your rabbit to feed, causing a lot of itching. They may first appear in a small area of ​​the animal’s body, but if left untreated, they can spread throughout the fur, in addition to the environment in which they live and also in other pets.

Lice

Although they are not that common, lice can infest rabbits. In this case, these lice are species specific, so humans and other animals cannot get them.

Fleas

Any animal can have fleas, including rabbits. Fleas, like skin mites, are blood-sucking parasites that, when they bite rabbits, cause excessive itching.

Other animals can transmit fleas to your rabbit, so both indoor and outdoor animals can get fleas. Fleas can also enter homes, just like other insects.

Dry skin

Your rabbit may develop dry skin, which can cause itching and scratching. Rooms with very low humidity, dusty environments, bathing your rabbit too frequently or using inappropriate shampoos can contribute to dry skin in your pet. By identifying the cause of dry skin, it can be reversed.

Ear mites

They can be transmitted from rabbit to rabbit, so if you notice itching in your animal, be careful so that it does not infect another animal. You may notice hair loss around the ears or crusting in this area, the ears may appear dirty. Head tilt, drooping ears are also signs of an ear mite infestation, which does not always affect both ears.

Allergies

Some rabbits are allergic to certain substances that can cause excessive itching. Typically, these allergies are environmental, which can be caused by dust, rabbit hay, or cleaning products used.

Skin irritants

Rabbits can become irritated by using certain products, especially if they are not made for rabbits. Shampoos, conditioners, sprays can cause these irritations on the animal’s skin. It is often the case that irritations occur with products intended for dogs used on rabbits, which are not correct for the animal.

Ringworm

Ringworm is a fungal infection that causes hair loss, itching and red lesions in rabbits. The main cause of ringworm is direct contact with an infected rabbit, and sharing objects used by the rabbit with ringworm. It is also possible to contract ringworm from dirty environments.

Skin infections

Skin infections can be caused by prolonged contact with urine and feces that remain for a long time and dirty or poorly sanitized environments. The infected area may become red, inflamed and very itchy and should be treated immediately.

How to Prevent Itching and Illness

Your rabbit’s excessive itching, caused by illness, can be avoided mainly by keeping the environment in which it lives clean. Daily or weekly maintenance makes a difference in the animal’s health and prevents diseases. When bathing your rabbit, only use products specifically for rabbits, and also use fragrance-free products to clean the house.

It is also important to regularly examine your rabbit and take it to the veterinarian. Take precautions with all other animals in the house by regularly using preventive products against fleas, ticks and worms.

Remember, by taking care of your pet safely and efficiently, it will be protected. Any questions left? Tell us here in the comments!