Rabbit symptoms: what to watch for and when to act
Rabbits hide illness well, so small changes matter. Pick a sign below to learn what it can mean and how soon to act. This is general information, not a diagnosis, and it never replaces your exotic vet.
Some signs are emergencies: not eating or pooping for 12+ hours, head tilt, trouble breathing, a seizure, visible blood, or collapse. If you see any of these, call your exotic vet now.
Eating & poop
Breathing, balance & nervous system
Body & coat
- Visible bloodEmergency
- Bloated or hard bellyEmergency
- Loud teeth grinding + hunched, still postureEmergency
- Maggots or fly eggs on the skin (flystrike)Emergency
- Runny or weepy eyesSee a vet soon
- Drooling or a wet chinSee a vet soon
- A new lump or swellingSee a vet soon
- Limping or favouring a legSee a vet soon
- Red, sore, or bald feetSee a vet soon
- Mucky bottom / poop stuck to furSee a vet soon
- Front teeth looking overgrownSee a vet soon
- Itchy skin, flakes, or fur lossSee a vet soon
Behaviour
See also safe foods for rabbits and plants toxic to rabbits, or browse the rabbit care guides.
Keep your bunny's care in one place
BunnyChart is a free rabbit-care companion. Track weight, check food safety, log symptoms, and keep a vet-ready health record for every bunny in your home, all with the gentle why behind it.
BunnyChart provides educational information from verified rabbit-care sources. It does not replace professional veterinary care. Always confirm health-related information with your exotic vet.