stained fur

Question
Hello, my question is we are looking after a rabbit for a friend and we have noticed that the fur is very stained i think for laying on straw, i have many rabbits of my own and breed, i have never come across this before, Is there anything apart from washing the rabbit i can do? or if washing is the only answer what can i use?

many thanks
           Chris chick

Answer
Dear Chris,

Stains on the fur are not a problem if they are not anything toxic.  If the bunny is not neutered, then these could be urine stains from spraying.  Please share this with your friend:

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

But DO NOT  NOT  NOT give the bunny a bath.  I have known many rabbits to die from the stress of a bath.  Rabbits keep themselves clean, and stains are not dirt.  If the bunny is not smelly, then don't try to fix things with possibly disatrous results.  Please see:

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

for instructions for a safe dry bath.  

I hope this helps. Please write back if you have any other questions.

Dana