Pasteurellosis in Rabbits - Symptoms & Treatment

Pasteurellosis is a highly contagious disease found in domesticated rabbits. Caused by the Pasteurella multocida bacteria, Pasteurellosis can lead to one of the most common illnesses found in rabbits known as snuffles. Rabbits can harbor Pasteurella for long periods of time without showing any outward signs of carrying the bacteria. Ultimately, the bacterium is transferred to other rabbits which can result in an outbreak of pasteurellosis.

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Pasteurellosis in Rabbits

Heat Stroke in Rabbits - Symptoms & Treatments

Labored breathing, flaring of the nostrils and distress are all signs of heat stress. These early signs can lead to a rabbit having a heatstroke and eventually death if not caught and treated early. Rabbits are highly susceptible to air temperatures especially when the mercury rises.

Rabbit owners should be especially cautious when temperatures rise above 85 degrees Fahrenheit. The same process that happens in humans will happen with animals including rabbits. As the temperatures go up, so does the body temperature. And for rabbits that have thick coats, this process can happen quickly.

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Heatstroke in Rabbits

Cat Scratch Disease - Symptoms & Treatment

Cat scratch disease or sometimes referred to as cat scratch fever can be caused from the scratch, bite or even a lick from a cat. Often caused by kittens, cat scratch is a bacterial infection that can cause swelling of the lymph nodes.

The bacterium Bartonella henselae (B. henselae) causes cat scratch disease and is typically seen in individuals under the age of 21. Over 20,000 cases of cat scratch disease are reported annually in the United States but the disease is not confined to the U.S., accounts of cat scratch disease are reported in countries worldwide.

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CAT SCRATCH DISEASE

Paralysis in Rabbits - Causes and Treatments

Rabbits that have paralysis will have a loss in the ability to move a body part, usually their hind legs. Paresis is considered partial paralysis which isn't as extreme as full paralysis but can still take away from a rabbit's ability to care for themselves. Unfortunately, rabbit paralysis is typically caused from some type of trauma like that seen from mishandling or an attack from a predator.

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Rabbit Paralysis

Why a Rabbits Make Good Pets

Rabbits are becoming increasingly popular in the United States as house pets. Due in part to organizations like House Rabbit Society, individuals are learning that rabbits can make incredible pets. Just like with any other pet, rabbits have some good and some not so good qualities of being kept as pets. Before making a final decision on whether a pet rabbit is right for you and your family, learn all there is about the care and demands of these beautiful creatures.

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Why a Rabbit Can Be a Good Companion Pet

Dog Adrenal Gland Diseases - Cushing's and Addison's

Adrenal glands in dogs are two small organs, one located on each kidney, that play important roles in a dog's overall health. These glands are responsible for producing three hormones, cortisol, aldosterone and epinephrine (adrenaline). Any abnormality with the adrenal glands or the production of these hormones can lead to different types of diseases.

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ADRENAL GLAND DISEASES IN DOGS

The Danger of Flies to a Rabbit

Flies are not only a nuisance they can be quite dangerous especially to rabbits. Outdoor rabbits are especially susceptible to flies but owners of indoor rabbits should also take precautions against these flying pests. It only takes one fly to lay its eggs on your rabbit which can lead to two very serious rabbit killers - Fly Strike and Myiasis.

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The Danger of Flies to a Rabbit

Giving Your Rabbit Medications

Rabbit owners may find themselves with the daunting task of medicating their rabbit. The task is made simpler or more difficult by how well your rabbit behaves at being handled, where the medicine is being administered and how quickly you can complete the task.

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GIVING YOUR RABBIT MEDICATION PROPERLY

Flea Treatments for Rabbits

Rabbits can get fleas, the same type of fleas that can infest a cat or dog. Most indoor rabbits that get fleas have acquired them from other indoor pets or when allowed to roam outside in the grass. When a rabbit exhibits excessive scratching, owners should check their rabbit for this parasite. It is also important to check for fleas during grooming sessions.

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RABBIT FLEA TREATMENTS

Viral Hemorrhagic Disease in Rabbits

At one time, viral hemorrhagic disease was non-existent in the United States. This deadly disease was mainly seen in rabbits located in Europe and China. Due to the lack of control of rabbits entering the United States, rabbit breeders and owners knew it was only a matter of time before the disease would show itself in U.S. That fear became a reality in April of 2000 when the first confirmed case of viral hemorrhagic disease was reported in Crawford County, Iowa.

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Viral Hemorrhaic Disease

Rabbit Breed - The Mini Rex

When the American Rabbit Breeder's Association (ARBA) set the working standards for the Mini Rex in 1986, breeders began working on different varieties of the breed which continue today. The Mini Rex was officially accepted as an official breed in 1988 at the ARBA convention held in Madison, Wisconsin.

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HISTORY OF THE MINI REX RABBIT

Differences Between a Rabbit and a Hare

Is it a rabbit or is it a hare? While they may look alike and their names are commonly used interchangeably, there are differences between a rabbit and a hare. Both species are mammals, both jump and hop and both the rabbit and the hare have nubby tails and long front teeth. But it's the differences that make each species unique and why one is called a rabbit and the other a hare.

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The Differences Between a Rabbit and a Hare

Rabbit Breed - The Himalayan

The Himalayan is believed to have come to North American during the early 1900's and was a prized breed for their fur. As more information became known of this breed, breeders began raising Himalayans for show. Because the Himalayan is known for its docile disposition, this breed has become extremely popular as a house pet.

The Himalayan Rabbit

Rabbit Breed - The American Polish

Sometimes confused with the Netherland Dwarf, the Polish rabbit breed is believed to have originated in either England or Belgium with the original breed being produced for meat production. The Polish rabbits seen today are more conformed to the rabbits that were bred in Germany. Weighing under 3 1/2 pounds when full grown, this compact breed has been dubbed "The Little Aristocrat" by the American Polish Rabbit Club.

The American Polish Rabbit

Rabbit Breed - Satin

The Satin rabbits are steadily becoming more popular at ARBA Conventions and as house rabbits. They stand out due to their magnificent sheen with the black Satin being popular at shows and the red Satin preferred by pet owners. They do not require any extra care than other breeds and are quite docile. The Satin rabbit breed is an interesting choice that individuals should consider when looking for a new breed to show or own as a pet.

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THE SATIN RABBIT BREED

Care Tips for the Older Rabbit

The average house rabbit can live 8 to 10 years, some have been known to live a few years longer. Elderly care for rabbits begins the day you bring your new rabbit home. The earlier you begin good health care, the better your rabbit's health will be as he or she ages.

Before your rabbit ever reaches the golden years, your pet needs to be fed a healthy diet and should receive regular veterinarian care. Get to know your rabbit's personality and eating and bathroom habits because if these change, this can be an early sign of health problems.

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CARING FOR AN ELDERLY RABBIT

The Solenodon

Due to the threat of their habitat and non-native predators being introduced into their territories, the solenodon has been declared an Endangered Species by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. In 2007, the Evolutionarily Distinct and Globally Endangered (EDGE) organization placed the solenodon from Hispaniola in the top 10 of threatened species. A third species known as the Marcano's solenodon has been listed as extinct. The solenodon has positive impacts on their habitat by helping control pest and insect populations. The loss of these mammals will certainly have an effect on the areas they inhibit and the ecosystem in general.


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THE SOLENODON

Florida Wildlife

Florida is filled with amazing wildlife including the blue heron, cranes, wild hogs, bobcats, river otters, Florida panther and the Florida black bear. The peaceful manatee can be seen swimming in many of the ocean's inlets. Whether you are an outdoorsman or a bird watcher, Florida has an array of wildlife for everyone to enjoy.


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ADVENTURES WITH FLORIDA WILDLIFE

Rabbit Breed - The Jersey Wooly

The Jersey Wooly will resemble a big ball of fluff when their coat is full and groomed properly. Because of this, the rabbit may appear bigger than it actually is. These small rabbits do make idea pets but are not recommended for young children or for outdoor living. This breed has been described as very docile and less likely to bite compared to other rabbit breeds. Whether you are wanting a show breed or a house companion, the Jersey Wooly rabbit is highly recommended.


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JERSEY WOOLY

Fainting Goat Information and Video

Myotonic goats, also known as the fainting goat, Tennessee fainting or scare goat and the Stiff-leg goat, are a smaller breed of goat that have a condition known as myotonia congenita. Fainting goats do not actually faint but when startled or when the goat becomes excited, their muscles stiffen causing them to stop moving and sometimes fall to the ground.

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THE FAINTING GOAT - Information and History of the Breed

More than just a video showing the Fainting Goat in action (or lack thereof), some interesting information on what make these goats "pass out".

Amazing Rabbit

No watch dog needed when this little guy is standing guard!

Proper Handling of Rabbits

Rabbits are one of those animals that everyone wants to pick up and cuddle with. However, rabbits are not comfortable being held and are quite content with all four feet safely on the ground. An instinct in rabbits is to run for safety when they are in fear which is impossible if they are being held. This makes for an uncomfortable situation for rabbits as they have lost that ability for flight at the sign of danger.

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HOW TO PROPERLY HANDLE A RABBIT

Rabbit Fever - Tularemia in Rabbits

Tularemia also known as "rabbit fever" can affect both humans and animals. While many animals are susceptible to this illness, rabbits, particularly wild rabbits, have been the main focus of transferring this disease to humans. The hunting and eating of wild rabbits have seen a decline due to the fear of this illness although humans are more apt to contract this illness through the bite of an infected insect rather than rabbits.

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INFORMATION ON RABBIT FEVER

Zonkey - Hybrid of the Zebra and Donkey

The beginnings of the zonkey is believed to have started with good intentions. Creating a breed of animal that was sure-footed, disease resistant and as reliable as the donkey. With the cost of hybrids going for thousands of dollars, many feel that these creations are nothing more than a luxury item produced to line the pocketbook. This debate will continue as will the research into the unique varieties of hybrids being created.

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THE ZONKEY

Homemade Rabbit Treats Recipes

Just like any other pet, rabbits enjoy treats and owners enjoy giving them to their rabbits. Treats should always be given sparingly to your pet rabbit. Excessive treats can cause your rabbit to become overweight and they may start to turn their nose up at their regular food in hopes of getting the good stuff. By preparing your own rabbit treats, you will know exactly what ingredients are going into your rabbit's body and you will spend less money than if you purchased the high-priced "gourmet" products at the store.

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HOMEMADE RABBIT TREATS

Rabbit Breed - The Silver Marten

Considered to be a medium sized rabbit, the Silver Marten rabbits are a popular breed for companion pets. The Silver Marten is a well-tempered breed that is known to be social as well as playful. They are known to be more timid than their larger counterparts and may not make suitable pets for young children. They adapt wonderfully to a home environment and can make an enjoyable addition to your family.

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THE SILVER MARTEN

Rabbit Breed - Creme D'Argent

The Creme D'Argent rabbit originates from France, only having been a part of North American rabbit culture for less than 100 years. Along with the Champagne D'Argent, the Creme D'Argent was imported into the United States and is considered a meat breed. In France, the Creme D'Argent holds high regards for its luxurious fur.

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THE CREME D'ARGENT RABBIT

The Importance of Fiber in a Rabbit's Diet

Well intended owners can literally love their pet rabbits to death. While your rabbit may enjoy the special treats and commercial foods, their digestive systems were not created to handle them on a regular basis. Just like with humans, a rabbit needs the correct nutrients with only occasional treats to live a long and healthy life.

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RABBITS - IMPORTANCE OF FIBER

Book Review - The Rabbit Handbook by Karen Gendron

Barron's The Rabbit Handbook is filled with rabbit facts and advice on how to care for pet rabbits. Authored by Dr. Karen Gendron, this book covers some important rabbit factors when considering the purchase of one of these furry creatures. With just over 120 pages, The Rabbit Handbook has in-depth information on rabbit care for pet and house rabbits.

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THE RABBIT HANDBOOK BY KAREN GENDRON

Rabbit Health - Toys & Playtime

A well adjusted pet rabbit is a happy rabbit. Playtime can be used as a bonding experience between pet and owner. Interaction enhances the relationship that you can experience with your pet rabbit. Whether they are purchased from a store or just simple products from your own home, toys help maintain a rabbit's physical and social well-being.


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IMPORTANCE OF RABBIT TOYS

The Sumatran Rabbit - Rarest Rabbit in the World

Between the years of 1916 and 1972, only one confirmed sighting of a Sumatran rabbit was ever recorded. That was until a group from Fauna and Flora International traveled to Sumatra and placed remote cameras into Mt. Kerinci National Park in 1998, capturing the rarest rabbit in pictures. Conservationists would again get a glimpse at this magnificent wonder in 2000. Cameras snapped a rare picture of the Sumatran rabbit in Bukit Barisan National Park.

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THE SUMATRAN RABBIT