My Rabbits Breathing

Question
How fast is a rabbit supposed to breathe. My rabbit, a rather large half-flemish giant seems to breath pretty fast at times. The last time he did this was during the summer.
He has also started sneezing quite a bit, but doesn't have a thick discharge coming from his nose.

Answer
Dear Chromesthesia,

Rabbits breathe at different rates depending on their temperature, their level of activity, their growth rate, and even how thick their coats are!  But seeing as your bunny is also sneezing, it would be a good idea to get him to a good rabbit vet:

www.rabbit.org/vets

for a deep nasal culture and sensitivity test:

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

If he's panting when he's not particularly active, he might have a fever and his body is trying to cool itself off.  Please also see:

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

for information on how to safely take his temperature.  (With a big bunny, this may be a two-person job!)

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

Dana