shaking bunny

Question
I have (had) five Dwarf bunnies, six weeks old.  This morning one starting shaking as if it was cold.  An hour later it didn't seem to have any balance.  It started hopping all through the cage, hitting on roof and sides, acted like it was rabid.  Then would stop and still be shaking, still staggering, and go back with frantic jumping and hopping. I separated it from the other bunnies and mother.  Four hours later it died.  Very concerned.  Please advise.  Thanks.

Answer
Dear Linda,

There are any number of possible reasons this bunny died.  Without a necropsy, it is impossible to know for sure.  With a tiny baby, it is even more difficult.  He could have suffered physical trauma out of your sight, or he might have suffered septicemia (systemic infection) or any number of other things.  It is not likely he was rabid if he never came into contact with any wild predators that commonly carry the rabies virus (e.g., raccoons, skunks, feral cats).

If the other bunnies are still fine, keep a close eye on them for any sign of illness or lethargy.  Please read this:

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

At the first sign of illness, you must get a sick bunny to a good rabbit vet for emergency treatment and supportive care.  You can find one here:

www.rabbit.org/vets

I am sorry about the loss of your bunny, and hope you don't have any more tragedies.

Hope this helps.

Dana