Just like we can, rabbits can perceive pain, which can be distressing for both them and their owner. Previous studies have shown that pain relief was underused in rabbits, but this seems to be improving as more research is carried out in the species. This article will cover both recognising pain in bunnies, and the options that we have available to manage it.

Table of contents

What is pain like for rabbits? 

Pain is described in humans as ‘an unpleasant sensory and emotional experience, associated with actual or potential tissue damage’. There’s a vast number of things that can cause a rabbit to experience pain but common things include gut stasis, dental disease, urinary problems and arthritis. They will also require adequate pain relief if undergoing surgery.

How can I tell if my rabbit is in pain? 

Rabbits are a prey species, so will show signs of pain in a different way to a dog or cat. The signs tend to be much more subtle, so it is important that as an owner you’re confident in spotting them. Common signs to look out for include: 

  • Loss of appetite 
  • Increased respiratory rate 
  • Reluctance to move 
  • Squinting eyes
  • Lethargy and depression 
  • Difficulty getting comfortable 
  • Limping 
  • Reduced grooming

What options are available for pain management?

Luckily there are several options available for managing pain in rabbits. They will be selected depending on the underlying cause of pain. Generally, a multi-modal approach is favoured, meaning using more than one type of medication at once.

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAIDs)

NSAIDs have an anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effect and can be used for a range of conditions. However, they are often not advised to be used in rabbits with liver or kidney problems and gastrointestinal ulceration. It is not licensed for use in rabbits, but can be given under the cascade and is used frequently. It should not normally be used alongside other anti-inflammatory drugs or steroids.

The most commonly used NSAID in rabbits is meloxicam. This can be given both as an injectable or orally and can be used both long and short term. It is also frequently used to manage post-operative pain. Research suggests that rabbits need a much higher dose than cats and dogs do, which is important to remember if you’ve had a dog or cat on oral meloxicam before as it will seem like quite a lot in comparison. Always check the dosage with your vet

Opioids 

These are pain-inhibiting drugs – in humans you hear of morphine being used. The most commonly used in rabbits is called Buprenorphine, which can be given directly into the vein, under the skin, into the muscle, or transmucosally (onto the gums). Its duration of action can be anywhere between 6-10 hours. Opioids are likely to be used in cases of more severe pain and will be used during surgery. They can have a mild sedative effective so a rabbit receiving Buprenorphine can sometimes appear a little drowsy.

Another opioid drug that can be used in rabbits is called Tramadol, which may be used to treat mild acute and chronic pain associated with arthritis and cancer.

Paracetamol 

This is commonly used in people, and in some cases may be used in rabbits too. It has pain-relieving properties only but is not as effective as other drugs so is less frequently administered.

Local anaesthesia 

Local anaesthetics work to block nerve transmission of a painful stimulus. They can be useful during surgery. Nerve blocks and even epidurals can be performed in rabbits by trained professionals. Local anaesthetics can also be used for other minor procedures like placing IV cannulas – EMLA cream can be put directly onto the skin to numb the area prior to placement.

Remember, pain medication should only be given as prescribed by a vet.

It is illegal and dangerous to give rabbits human medicines, or those intended for other species, without expert veterinary advice.

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