Spring

Shedding Season

Spring (and fall) brings major shedding:

  • Brush more frequently (daily for heavy shedders)
  • Watch for wool block (hair ingestion)
  • Increase hay intake to help pass hair
  • Look for bald patches (could indicate mites, not just shedding)

Fresh Greens

  • Wild greens become available (dandelions, clover)
  • Ensure they're pesticide-free and away from roads
  • Wash thoroughly
  • Introduce slowly if new to diet

Allergies

Yes, rabbits can have seasonal allergies:

  • Watery eyes
  • Sneezing (but rule out respiratory infection)
  • Keep hay fresh and dust-free
  • Air purifier can help

Outdoor Time

If supervised outdoor time:

  • Check for escape routes
  • Ensure area is secure from predators
  • Avoid pesticide-treated lawns
  • Watch for flystrike risk as weather warms

Summer

Heat is Dangerous!

Rabbits can't sweat and overheat easily. Heat stroke can be fatal.

Warning signs of overheating:

  • Panting, drooling
  • Wet nose
  • Lethargy
  • Ears hot to touch
  • Lying stretched out

Keeping cool:

  • Air conditioning is ideal (72°F or below)
  • Frozen water bottles to lie against
  • Ceramic tiles (stay cool)
  • Fans (but not directly on rabbit)
  • Frozen treats (herbs in ice cube)
  • Wet their ears with cool water (not cold)

Never:

  • Leave in direct sunlight
  • Put in car, even briefly
  • Keep in garage or unventilated space

Flystrike Prevention

Flies lay eggs on dirty fur, especially around the rear. Maggots can kill within hours.

Prevention:

  • Check your rabbit's bottom DAILY in summer
  • Keep living area clean
  • Address any diarrhea immediately
  • Keep fly population down (screens, traps)
  • Consider Rearguard (prescription fly prevention)

Hydration

  • Fresh water multiple times daily
  • Add ice cubes to water bowl
  • Offer water-rich veggies (cucumber, lettuce)
  • Monitor water intake

Fall

Shedding (Again!)

  • Another heavy shed as winter coat comes in
  • Same precautions as spring
  • Good time for nail trimming while grooming

Daylight Changes

  • Rabbits notice shorter days
  • May affect activity levels
  • Ensure adequate lighting for their schedule
  • Watch for behavior changes

Pre-Winter Health Check

Good time for a vet visit to:

  • Address any issues before cold weather
  • Update any preventatives
  • Trim nails
  • Check teeth

Molting Pattern

Some rabbits molt in "bands" - you'll see clear lines between old and new coat. This is normal!

Winter

Cold Weather Care

Indoor rabbits:

  • Ideal temp: 60-70°F
  • Avoid drafts from windows/doors
  • Keep away from heat vents (drying)
  • Stable temperature is key

Outdoor rabbits: (Not recommended, but if necessary)

  • Insulated, weatherproof hutch
  • Extra hay for warmth
  • Check water isn't frozen (multiple times daily)
  • Consider moving indoors for extreme cold
  • Signs of hypothermia: cold ears, lethargy, shivering

Holiday Hazards

Christmas:

  • Poinsettias are toxic
  • Christmas tree water may have fertilizer
  • Tinsel is a choking/GI hazard
  • Chocolate everywhere - keep away!
  • Secure cords on lights

General holidays:

  • Noisy gatherings can stress rabbits
  • Give them a quiet retreat
  • Inform guests not to feed treats
  • Watch for open doors/escape

Dry Air

Winter heating dries air:

  • May cause more dusty hay
  • Watch for dry skin
  • Humidifier can help
  • Ensure adequate hydration

Less Outdoor Time

If your rabbit usually gets outdoor time:

  • Indoor enrichment is crucial
  • Extra playtime inside
  • New toys and activities
  • Tunnels, boxes, foraging toys

Year-Round Reminders

Monthly

  • Weight check
  • Nail assessment
  • Full body check for lumps/injuries

Quarterly

  • Deep clean living space
  • Check/replace worn items
  • Assess diet appropriateness

Annually

  • Veterinary checkup
  • Update emergency contacts
  • Review bunny-proofing