Is your bunny scratching more than usual? It might be fleas! In our latest post, we’ll explore everything you need to know about fleas in rabbits. From how to spot the signs to the best treatment options, we’ve got you covered. Discover expert tips on prevention, hygiene, and more, and say goodbye to those pesky fleas for good.
Fleas are common on rabbits that live with house cats and they can be treated easily using a flea comb or a prescription of topical medication. Never use a flea collar or powders on rabbits as they have very sensitive skin and may also ingest the powder during their cleaning regime.
After carefully looking at your rabbit’s skin, you might see black flakes or even small bugs running around its face, nose, and ears. These nasty parasites are fleas. While you cannot just go to your local pet store and get flea medication for your rabbit, there are many things that you can do to get rid of these fleas on your rabbit.
How Can I Get Rid Of Fleas On My Rabbit?
1. Use a Flea Comb
While this can be a very time-consuming task but is a very safe way to get fleas off of your rabbit. If your rabbit only has a few fleas, you can use a flea comb like the one linked below on Amazon to remove these nasty parasites.
Make sure that between each comb through you remove any fleas from the comb by dipping it in warm soapy water or rubbing alcohol. This will make sure the fleas are dead and cannot just jump right back on your rabbit. When using a comb be very gentle as your bunnies skin is very delicate and you can easily hurt your bun if you comb too hard.
2. Get Topical Medication From Your Veterinarian
Topical medications such as Advantage and Revolution can be used on your rabbit. This medication has to be prescribed by your veterinarian. You cannot get this at the pet store. This is the same product that is used for cats and dogs just at a different dosage.
These medications will be applied to the skin behind your rabbit’s head. Make sure to put the medication in a spot that your rabbit cannot reach. If you have multiple rabbits or children, make sure to keep everyone separated until the medication fully dries.
Before using any medication on your pet, consult with a veterinarian who is knowledgeable about rabbits. Many of the common medications used for dogs and cats could kill your rabbit. So make sure that your veterinarian is well-versed in rabbit medicine.
How Do Topical Medications Kill Fleas On a Rabbit?
Only Topical medications can kill adult fleas. Due to the flea life cycle, many times, you may need to apply more medication every 2 to 4 weeks. This will depend on how many fleas are on your bunny. Once an adult female flea can lay about 50 eggs a day.
After they lay their eggs it takes 14 to 28 days to hatch. Once these eggs start to hatch a whole new batch of adult fleas are ready to feast on your bunny. By applying topical medication every 2 weeks, you will be killing off the new batch of adult fleas on your rabbit as soon as they are hatching, thus curing your rabbit of a parasite infestation.
Unsuitable Flea Treatments for Rabbits
Here are some things that you should never use to get rid of fleas on your rabbit.
- Never use Frontline or Sentinel in your rabbits. Studies show that these two medications can cause severe adverse effects and even death.
- Most flea and tick sprays for cats and dogs should also be avoided.
- Do not give your rabbit a flea bath or flea dip. Most rabbits will get very stressed with a bath, and some of the chemicals in flea baths and dips are very dangerous for your rabbit.
- Never put a flea collar on your rabbit. These have been shown to be very toxic to rabbits.
If you have a large infestation in your house, the use of flea bombs is a popular thing to use. If you do use a flea bomb, make sure to keep your bunny out of the house for a few days as these could also kill your rabbit.
Can Rabbits Wear Flea Collars?
No, you should never put a flea collar on your rabbit. Most rabbits are very curious and will chew the flea collar causing major problems. Also, the amount of medication that is on a flea collar is too high for your rabbit and will probably kill your rabbit.
Can I Use Cat Flea Treatment On My Rabbit?
Yes, most cat flea medications are safe for your rabbit. The two most common cat flea treatment that is used on rabbits is Advantage and Revolution. The dosage is different than for cats, so do not give your rabbit the equivalent dosage of a cat’s body weight as your rabbit’s body weight.
Can Rabbits Die From Fleas?
Yes, your rabbit can die from a flea infestation. Fleas stay alive by sucking the blood from your rabbit. If your rabbit has a severe infestation, the fleas can suck enough blood to cause your rabbit to become anemic and possibly die. Fleas can also transmit a disease called Myxomatosis. This is a very common disease in the UK and most rabbits in the UK are vaccinated for. This virus can be very deadly.
What Do Rabbit Fleas Look Like?
Rabbit fleas look just like fleas that are commonly seen on dogs and cats. You may see live fleas running around your rabbit’s head. This is the most likely place to see fleas on a rabbit. You may just see the flea dirt. This would look like pepper flakes in your rabbit’s fur.
If you put these flakes on a white sheet of paper and add a drop of water to the small pile of flea dirt, you will see the water drop turn a dark red color. Flea dirt is actually flea poop. Since a flea’s meal consists of blood, what they poop is digested blood.
Can Indoor Rabbits Get Fleas?
Yes, even rabbits that never go outside can get fleas. Many people who own rabbits also have a dog or cat. These animals may frequently go outside, and they can pick up fleas and bring them inside. They may not be allowed around the rabbit, but when they are close, a flea can jump off the other household pet and onto the rabbit.
Even if you do not have any other animals, your rabbit can still get fleas. Fleas are very small and can easily attach themselves to your pants when you are walking around outside.
Conclusion
Fleas can be a very nasty and unwanted parasite on your rabbit. If you notice these on your rabbit, consult with your veterinarian to make sure that the product that you are using to treat this infestation will not harm your rabbit. Most rabbits are very sensitive to many popular flea and tick medications.
Sometimes the old fashion way of manually removing them with a flea comb is the safest way to get rid of these fleas. Also, remember that fleas lay eggs that can be in your rabbits’ environment and cage. If you see fleas on your rabbit, make sure also to clean their cage and the area that they are commonly in. By checking your rabbit for fleas often, you can make sure that your rabbit stays flea-free and happy.
Further Reading
Rabbit Flea Treatments vets4pets.com
How to Get Rid of Fleas on Rabbits petmd.com
Fleas and Your Rabbit companioncare.com
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best flea prevention for rabbits?
The best flea prevention for rabbits is using vet-approved, rabbit-safe topical treatments. Regular cage cleaning also helps prevent flea infestation.
How often should I treat my rabbit for fleas?
Rabbits should be treated for fleas monthly with a vet-approved product. Always consult your vet before starting any flea treatment.
What is a natural flea killer for rabbits?
A natural flea killer for rabbits is diatomaceous earth. However, it should be used with caution and vet consultation, as inhalation can be harmful.
Where do fleas hide on rabbits?
Fleas often hide in warm, protected areas on rabbits, such as under the chin, around the ears, and near the rear end.
Can humans get fleas from rabbits?
Yes, humans can potentially get fleas from rabbits. Fleas can jump from host to host, so it’s important to treat rabbit flea infestations promptly.