Stockport Independent Issue 188

7 APRIL 2025 Visit our website: www.independentnewspapers.co.uk Independent PETS MANY humans experience arthritis as they get older, and the same is true for rabbits. The most common form of arthritis in rabbits is osteoar- thritis, a type of inflammation that causes pain and stiffness in the joints. While it can be painful and can’t be cured as such, your rab- bit should still be able to live a full and active life with the right combination of treatments. Symptoms of osteoarthritis in rabbits include stiffness or wob- bling when moving, not being able to eat soft morning stools directly from their bottom or a dirt or urine-soaked bottom. Other signs include an inabil- ity to angle their pelvis properly when weeing, meaning they can’t completely empty their bladder, moving around less when it’s cold or damp, a reduced appetite and unexplained aggression towards their owner or bonded partner. If you notice any of these signs, or are concerned about your rab- bit, please get in touch with your vet practice. Your vet will be able to diagnose osteoarthritis and recommend some helpful methods for man- aging the condition. Treatment options may include: weight management, putting cov- erings on slippery floors and sur- faces to aid movement, providing a litter tray that is low at the front and has no sharp edges and keep- ing your rabbit warm in cold and damp weather. Other measures include pro- viding ramps or steps to get up to hutches, ensuring they have plenty of space to do gentle exer- cise and giving them things to play with and lots of environmen- tal and feeding enrichment. It’s also a good idea to keep an eye on your rabbit’s bottom, groom them regularly and maintain reg- ular treatment against the Fly- strike disease. For further advice about rabbit care, please get in touch with your nearest Willows branch. Could your rabbit have arthritis?