QuestionHi Dr. Krempels, I have 4 orphaned bunnies, about 4 1/2 weeks
old (mother died) that I am fostering, and I have been doing a
ton of research (House Rabbit Society site has been so helpful!). I
am really worried about their health, I had no idea their digestive
tracts were so delicate. I have been giving them alfalfa and
unlimited pellets, but I am afraid this is not enough. 1 bunny is
losing all her hair, but there is no dandruff or ectoparasites I can
see..additionally, I noticed some diarrhea this morning, but it
looked like that White Out correction fluid. Help! What do I do
for my bunnies?
AnswerDear Willa,
It's not easy to raise baby rabbits, but I hope this will help:
www.bio.miami.edu/hare/orphan.html
Diarrhea is bad news, and could indicate a bacterial infection of the intestinal tract. If you can get the baby to a vet, ask about using a fluoroquinolone antibiotic, in case this is due to E. coli (which is often the case, when humans raise baby rabbits, since we're covered with these bacteria--beneficial to us, but potentially harmful to baby rabbits without a fully developed immune system).
You can find a good vet to help you here:
www.rabbit.org/vets
I hope this helps.
Dana