Post operative care

Rabbits are not great at regulating their own body temperature after an anaesthetic so we would advise if they are not house rabbits that they are kept warm inside for a minimum of 24 hours. Longer if your rabbit isn't recovering well. 

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If your rabbit has a wound, it’s advisable to keep them on soft bedding such as 'vet bed' or fleece blankets this is to ensure animal bedding doesn't get stuck to them. (Shavings and sawdust should not be used with rabbits in today’s modern care routines as it can be an irritant for their respiratory system and eyes and can cause serious lung issues.)

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Hay is best placed in a hay rack to prevent it poking the wound site.

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It's important to try to get your rabbit eating as soon as possible after a surgery; stress and pain can cause them not to eat which could lead to GI Stasis. It is also important to ensure your rabbit comes homes with pain relief. Offer them any of their favourite foods, herbs or treats to get them eating again; if they still choose not to by the end of the day you may need to syringe feed them, your vet should have given you advice on this. If you are in any doubt about your rabbits' recovery phone your vet immediately.

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Syringing food and medicines in to a rabbit are best done between the cheek and teeth to prevent the risk of choking.