How To Treat Fleas On Rabbits

The issue of flea control for rabbits comes up less often than one might think, but it is possible for rabbits to get fleas, and if a rabbit does pick up fleas somewhere, it is important that some flea control measures be undertaken if the rabbit is to remain healthy.A flea infestation can quickly drain a bunny of blood and make it desperately sick.

How Do Rabbits Get Fleas?

Rabbits kept outside in purpose built cages and runs very rarely get fleas because they very rarely have contact with other animals that carry fleas, so an outdoor rabbit may not be a candidate for flea infestation, but there are other little creatures that occasionally see fit to make their home on rabbits and guinea pigs, usually mites.

Indoor rabbits stand a much higher chance of coming into contact with fleas, especially if there are other cats and dogs in the house, or if other cats and dogs visit.

Regardless of whether your rabbit is an indoor or outdoor rabbit you should check it regularly for signs of infestation whilst grooming. Signs of 'flea dirt' in the coat, or sightings of actual fleas themselves should be taken seriously and treated as soon as possible.

The Best Flea Treatment For Rabbits

The very best way to treat fleas and mites on rabbits and guinea pigs according to a vet I consulted is to use Bayer's Advantage for kittens. This is generally regarded as being safe for adult guinea pigs and rabbits and is a simple application to the back of the shoulders that kills fleas and mites.

What Not To Use On Rabbits

There are a wide range of other flea treatments available, however one should not attempt to use these on rabbits.

Flea collars can cause a rabbit to panic and hurt itself. Whilst a cat or dog can quite happily use a collar with no ill effect, rabbits are not suited to wearing collars and the dosage of these collars is also suited to much larger animals. Putting a flea collar on a bunny is like putting a penguin in a wedding dress - it just doesn't make sense.

Flea baths are also not recommended for rabbits because they stress rabbits greatly. Rabbits do not take well to baths in the first instance, and in the second instance, a chemical bath may simply prove to be far too much for a poor bunny.

Flea powders are not recommended for bunnies because rabbits tend to clean themselves very thoroughly and can ingest chemicals in the powder which are dangerous to them and not the other animals that the powders are designed for.