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Elder rabbit

22 9:43:33

Question
are human arthritis supplements safe for rabbits? and do people use human glucosamine/chondroitin(/msm) supplments for bunnies?
would these be safe for a 7lb bunny at half a capsule?(a serving is 2 capsules)
http://www.vitaminshoppe.com/store/en/browse/sku_detail.jsp?id=VS-1632#.USmQ5qI3

what about these ate half a pill?
http://www.riteaidonlinestore.com/Rite-Aid-Glucosamine-Chondroitin-200mg/dp/B001

Answer
Dear Shafan,

The supplements you describe are sometimes used in rabbits, with variable success. There is no strict dose, but half a capsule would do no harm. It can't hurt to try.

But before you give your bun any medication, it's important to have your bunny seen by a rabbit-savvy veterinarian who may be able to diagnose a problem you don't suspect.  Stiff walking, for example, can be due to a parasite (E. cuniculi) that can also damage the kidneys and nervous system.  You don't want to treat for arthritis if a problem is really something else.

You can find a good rabbit vet here:

http://www.rabbit.org/vets

Hope this helps.

Dana