As the hot weather is upon us…we want to make sure we alert you to the dangers that high temperatures can pose to your pet. As dog owners are warned to keep their dogs from overheating outside or in cars…rabbits are even more susceptible to heat related problems. The things we want you to be aware of are 1) heat stroke 2) maggots and 3)cuterebras.
Heat Stroke: Make sure your pet is not left outside in hot weather, especially in direct sunlight or cars. Rabbits can quickly overheat and suffer from heat stroke which can be life threatening.
Maggots: Rabbits can be overcome by maggot infestations when kept outside. If your pet is kept, or allowed playtime outdoors, make sure the are kept very clean and dry. Flies like to lay eggs in warm, moist areas which can lead to the infestation. Please be sure to routinely examine any pet rabbits that are kept outside of the house…this includes the garage.
Cuterebras: This is an adult fly larvae that burrows under the animals skin. This causes a significant inflammatory response, and in some cases, and extreme allergic reaction.
All three of these problems can become life threatening.
