Did you know?
RABBITS ARE CLASSED AS EXOTIC COMPANION ANIMALS
While studying veterinary medicine, vet students learn 8 times more about pigs than about rabbits in their initial 4 year degree. This is because the highest demand and most money to be made for vet surgeons in the UK is for treating dog, cat and farm animals. The reasoning: a rabbit costs £20 so why spend thousands on vet care? Of course, anyone who truly cares about their rabbits will go above and beyond to ensure the best medical treatment for them. This includes finding a good vet.
In order to be a 'rabbit vet', vets do further training and studies on exotics and then specialise in a specific field. Just like doctors specialising once qualified to be a specific type of doctor: Pediatrician, Cardiologist, Neurologist etc. Why do we expect vet surgeons to know everything about every species? It is impossible! If you are a general practice vet, this is the equivalent of being a GP. If you want your rabbit treated and diagnosed correctly, you should aim to go to a rabbit vet. One who specialises in 'small exotic mammals'.
In order to be a 'rabbit vet', vets do further training and studies on exotics and then specialise in a specific field. Just like doctors specialising once qualified to be a specific type of doctor: Pediatrician, Cardiologist, Neurologist etc. Why do we expect vet surgeons to know everything about every species? It is impossible! If you are a general practice vet, this is the equivalent of being a GP. If you want your rabbit treated and diagnosed correctly, you should aim to go to a rabbit vet. One who specialises in 'small exotic mammals'.
What should you look for when choosing a vet practise?
- You should look for a vet practice who has at least 1 exotic small mammal vet. Read through the 'Meet the Team' sections on the practice website and see if there is a vet who has additional qualifications in rabbits as well as a special interest in rabbits and small mammals. Not just someone who has their own rabbits or likes rabbits, that is not enough and does not equal knowledge.
- Ask the vet practice on the phone if you registered, would you get to specially request a rabbit vet. A knowledgeable practice should enthusiastically encourage you to see the rabbit vet/s.
- Ask the practice about their success rate with rabbits under GA being neutered; is this something they do often and with good success? There should be no reason to lose a rabbit under GA unless the rabbit has a n underlying health issue.
- They should have a separate kenneling area for rabbits only.
- They should always tell you to bring your pair/group when coming in instead of just one as bonded rabbits must always stay together.
- They should always offer pain relief and after care after a neutering or any surgery.
Red Flags - if a vet says any of the following, it's time to move practise ASAP!
- "There is no need to neuter your rabbit, if it's a female then it can live happily with another female. No need to neuter, it's too high risk."
- "If your rabbit lives indoors, you don't need to vaccinate. Only vaccinate if they go outside."
- "Your rabbit doesn't need a friend, they can be perfectly happy alone."
- "Fast your rabbit before surgery."
- "They don't need pain relief."
- "Routinely worm your rabbit with Panacur." (this is now an outdated practice and no longer advised)
BBBB Recommended Rabbit Vets in Scotland
(this is updated regularly) * last updated 06/08/24
- Laura, Krissy & Madonna at Ark Vets Coatbridge - Exotics
- Emma Keeble, Romain and Bronwyn Koterwas at the Royal Dick Vet School Edinburgh - Exotics
- Katie & Becky at Lawries Vet Cumbernauld - Vets who have a keen interest in rabbit medicine
- Alastair and Shannon at Vets4Pets Paisley - Rabbit savvy practise
- Darren Docherty at Scottish Vet Referrals Inverness (highlands) - referrals for CT scans and disgnostics - exotic vet
- Emily Clark at Crown Vet Inverness - newly qualified vet with an interest in exotics and rabbits
- Julie & Frances at Vets4Pets Hamilton - Rabbit savvy senior vets
- Alison at Ardene House Aberdeen - Exotics
- John at A&G Vets Bonnybridge - Experienced with rabbits and happy to refer
- James (Vet) and Head Nurse Rachel (RVN) Abercorn Vets Portobello (Edinburgh) - rabbit savvy practise
- Alice Jenkins at Galedin vet (Duns - borders)
- Victoria Baney at Galedin vet (Galashiels - Scottish borders) - a new vet who has a keen interest in rabbits
Are you a vet or RVN with a keen interest in rabbits and would like added to our list?
Email us at [email protected]
Our exotic veterinary advisor can discuss with you what CPD they recommend, how to further your knowledge, get more hands on experience with rabbits and get on our list. Or if you work at a practice and would like more resources to offer your clients, please get in touch as we offer free education packs to clinics with posters, leaflets and more.
Email us at [email protected]
Our exotic veterinary advisor can discuss with you what CPD they recommend, how to further your knowledge, get more hands on experience with rabbits and get on our list. Or if you work at a practice and would like more resources to offer your clients, please get in touch as we offer free education packs to clinics with posters, leaflets and more.
