Name
When Aging Becomes a Clinical Problem: Rethinking Care in Geriatric Rabbits
Description
Rabbits are living longer, which means they often develop age-related health problems that affect their daily lives and well-being. Subtle changes, such as being less active, losing weight, or moving differently, are easy to overlook or dismiss as normal aging. However, these signs can indicate treatable health issues. Spotting them early helps older rabbits enjoy a better quality of life. Older rabbits often lose muscle and weight, eat less because their sense of smell is weaker, and have trouble digesting food and absorbing nutrients. They may also move less, which can cause further muscle loss. Nutrition management usually needs to be tailored to each rabbit. Joint problems, especially in the hips and elbows, are common but often go unnoticed because older rabbits tend to hide discomfort and move less. Bone spurs along the spine are also common and can make it harder for rabbits to move and keep their balance. This review urges clinicians to consider more than just musculoskeletal decline when caring for older rabbits. Aging rabbits often develop other health problems, such as chronic kidney disease and heart issues, which can further affect their movement, appetite, stamina, and overall health. Using preventive medicine, including early screening, nutrition and pain management, mobility checks, environmental adjustments, and regular monitoring of overall health, is essential. Moving from reactive treatment to proactive, whole-patient care helps aging rabbits stay comfortable, active, and enjoy a better quality of life.
Session Type
Lecture (25 Min)