Rabbits are now the UK’s third most popular pet¹. However, many bunny owners still struggle to access veterinary care tailored to their pet’s unique needs. Unlike cats and dogs, rabbits are prey animals, which means the simple act of visiting a practice or even just leaving the house can be highly stressful and can impact their health if not managed carefully. Practices who treat rabbits should take steps to create a safe and welcoming environment for these sensitive creatures.
Read on to discover five steps you can take to become a rabbit-friendly vet.
1. Understand the mindset of prey animals
Rabbits see the world very differently from cats and dogs. As prey animals, their first instinct is to stay alert to potential threats and the change in environment that comes with visiting the vets can be overwhelming. Loud noises, strange smells, unfamiliar handling, and the presence of predator species like cats and dogs can all cause stress. And stress can have serious health consequences for rabbits, affecting everything from pain and gut motility to recovery after treatment.
To have a truly rabbit-friendly practice, it’s essential to recognise how vulnerable rabbits can feel in a clinical setting and adapt accordingly. A strong starting point is developing awareness of common behavioural signs of stress, such as a hunched posture, dilated pupils, flat ears and cowering or restlessness. By recognising these cues early, your team can take proactive steps to minimise stress as much as possible.
2. Separate prey animals in the waiting room and kennels
For rabbits, proximity to potential predators like cats and dogs is one of the biggest stress triggers during a vet visit. Even if no direct contact occurs, the scent, sound, or sight of these animals can evoke fear.
Where possible, provide a separate waiting area or designate quieter times for rabbit appointments. If space permits, avoid placing rabbits in kennels opposite or beside dogs and cats. Instead, create a calmer space with appropriate housing, ventilation, and barriers so that rabbits can’t see predator animals. Small changes like carriers with a towel to block line of sight, or ensuring rabbits are seen promptly to minimise time spent in communal areas can make a significant difference.
3. Encourage time spent with bonded companions
Rabbits are social animals and should be kept in pairs or small groups. Being separated from a bonded companion, even for a short time, can cause significant stress and anxiety, which in turn can hinder recovery.
When a rabbit is scheduled for a vet visit, encourage owners to bring along their bonded partner too. The familiar presence provides comfort, reduces stress and helps maintain normal behaviour patterns. This small step not only benefits the mood and welfare of the rabbit, but demonstrating awareness of the importance of companionship is a key marker of a rabbit-friendly vet and can help practices build trust with rabbit owners.
4. Mindful handling of rabbits
Handling can be one of the most stressful parts of a rabbit’s veterinary visit. Rabbits often freeze or struggle when frightened, and incorrect handling techniques can put them at risk of injury as well as heightening their fear and anxiety.
Instead of moving a rabbit unwillingly from their carrier, give them time and allow them to come out at their own pace whenever possible. Using quiet voices and mindful handling can help them feel safe. First and foremost, patience is required. A rabbit-friendly vet understands that taking a little more time reduces stress, improves cooperation and keeps both patient and staff safe. Building trust through careful handling is central to creating a genuinely rabbit-friendly practice.
5. Having rabbit-specific equipment and expertise
Providing excellent care for rabbits means going beyond a one-size-fits-all approach. Rabbits have very different anatomy, physiology, and dietary needs compared to cats and dogs, so proper equipment and staff training is essential.
The whole team – vets, nurses, receptionists, and care assistants – needs training to understand how to welcome and handle rabbits in the right way. Equipping your practice with rabbit-friendly tools, such as bonded companion housing, hay feeders, and a choice of bowls or bottles to drink also helps your practice to deliver safe and effective treatment. By committing to ongoing education and investment, your practice not only improves clinical outcomes for rabbits but also positions itself as a trusted rabbit-friendly practice, helping attract more clients who are actively seeking that level of care.
One way to demonstrate commitment to rabbit welfare is by working towards accreditation with the Rabbit Welfare Association & Fund (RWAF). Their scheme provides clear standards and recognises practices that offer excellent care tailored to rabbits. You can learn more about the scheme and how to apply on the RWAF website.
At Kin Vet, we’re proud to support practices that want to become more rabbit-friendly. If you have any questions on how you can foster a more positive environment for rabbits in your practice, get in touch with us.
References:
[1] https://spca.bc.ca/news/things-to-know-before-adopting-a-rabbit