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Do bunnies require bathing? In general, the answer to that question is no, rabbits do not require regular bathing. You may note that your bunny doesn't have much of a smell, even when you bury your nose in their fur. As a prey animal in the wild, this lack of scent helps them survive. It also makes bunnies different from dogs, who can get really nasty smelling if they don't get fairly regular baths! Similar to cats, rabbits have very good grooming habits. You'll notice your bunny grooming themselves multiple times per day. In addition to the fact that they just don't need a bath, bunnies have delicate skin which can be irritated by baths and soaps. Should your bunny develope any type of skin irritation or should you suspect a problem with fleas or other parasites, promptly visit your rabbit-savy veterinarian. Generally, flea powders meant for cats can be used on rabbits, but you want to make sure you are treating the right problem!
There are a few rabbits who like water -- but they are certainly the minority and you should almost never have occasion to give your rabbit a bath. Especially do not bathe a sick rabbit, as the stress the event puts the animals under can worsen existing health problems. The most frequent reason your bunny may need a little rub-a-dub is "poopy butt." If your rabbit has diarehea, or mobility problems which may make it difficult for him to deal with cecal pellets you may find cleaning in that area to be a necessity. In this case, soak a washcloth with warm (but not hot) water. Turn your bunny over on his backóperhaps wrapping him in a towel if he doesn't take to this willinglyó and place the warm compress under the tail area. Hold it there for a few minutes to soften the dried feces. When softened, wipe away. Repeat as necessary. if you use a baby shampoo or other cleaning agent, wipe the area a few times with a fresh wet wash cloth to remove any soap residue.
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Copyright
1997-2000 by Leith Petwerks |
Should your bunny get into some mischief and require the removal of
dirt, grime or goodness-only-knows-what, it's best to "spot clean." Take a
wash cloth with warm water and try to remove whatever he's gotten into. If
some cleaning agent is necessary, use a mild soap such as a shampoo meant
for a baby. Use sparingly, and wipe the area repeatedly with a clean
washcloth to remove any residue of soap when done.