rabbit seems unhealthy in many different ways

Question
Hi,
My friend just bought me a rabbit from a petshop as a surprise, but i knew that there would be some problems because those pet shops never treat this kind of animals well. Anyway, it's an albino, and it seemed like it was doing pretty well until I noticed some things. She (I'm guessing its a she, I got help from the internet) scratches every part of her body she can reach, and she licks her fur (or maybe takes out parts of her fur, i'm not sure I saw her tongue).
Also, from time to time she lies and moves her head backwards and forwards, like she's in a trans, and suddenly she goes up and moves her head fast like she does when she eats, and also makes noises like she's eating something.
She goes to a corner of her cage,sits there, and doesn't move. Her ears are down when she does that, and I don't think that's sleep because when I move my hand she looks.
All she does is eat, drink water, and dig for some more food.
I really don't know what's wrong, I'm so confused.
I really want my rabbit to be healthy because she has special meaning to me, I don't know what to do, please help me, I'm feeling really sorry for her, thank you.

Answer
Dear Bilun,

I'm not sure you can find a rabbit vet in your area, but the international listings can be found here:

www.rabbit.org/vets

If your bunny is scratching, she may have mites or fleas, and these are easily treated with either ivermectin or selamectin.  I am sure you can get ivermectin, since it is commonly used to treat worms in livestock.  But selamectin is better, if you can get it. Please read this completely for more information:

www.bio.miami.edu/hare/furloss.html

For all the best information on how to care for your bunny and get her into good health, please go to:

www.rabbit.org/

and start with "House Rabbits 101".  This will explain good diet, grooming, etc.  I hope that will help you get her on the road to recovery.

Good luck!

Dana