Can rabbits go deaf

Question
Hi my rabbit is a house rabbit and is 6 he doesnt seam to be getting up when we call him or he used to jump up if he heard a noise which is doesnt seam to be doing at the momet is it possible he could be going deaf?!

Thank you

Answer
Dear Rachel,

Rabbits can become deaf, but your bunny is a bit young to be suffering from age-related hearing loss.  I'd get him to a good rabbit vet:

www.rabbit.org/vets

for a good look into the ears to see if he might have ear mites, an ear infection, or even just a big plug of wax that's making it hard for him to hear.

If he's easily startled when you sneak up on him, it's quite possible that he's going deaf.  His lack of jumping at noises could just mean that he's calmer at his age.  But a veterinary exam can rule out a lot of medical possibilities.

Hope that helps.

Dana