Bunny has an underbite, just need reassurance.

[Matt]

Hello,
My rabbit has an underbite, at the moment we are having the vet grind his teeth every 3 weeks or so. I’ve spoken to the vet about having his front teeth removed which she assures me she has done a few hundred times and has had no issues. I understand it would be better for my rabbit because I’m sure the stress of his teeth being shortened isn’t pleasant.
I’d just like to make sure he will still be able to eat his hay, pellets and any other treats (if chopped being required)? Also if anyone has has had their rabbits teeth done, if they have any information on how to care in the first week or so?

Thanks.

[jerseygirl]

Hi Matt

I looked after a little Netherland dwarf for a few months and he didn’t seem to have an issue without his front teeth.

They pull the food into the back and chew with the molars as usual.

It really is the best way forward with this type of malocclusion.

When I think about it, rabbits really only use the front teeth for defence & for things like clearing roots, stripping bark from trees etc. not something you need a pet rabbit doing anyway. Roots -> cords. Bark -> wallpaper & baseboards…

I’m not certain how it affects their self grooming.

[Dface]

I had a rabbit with his teeth removed

For the first while things should be chopped up until they get used to eating using lips more than teeth, which can take a while to get used to.
Things like brocolli and cauliflower will alwayd need to be chopped up, (basically anything that cant get to the back teeth without needing to be first chomped up by front teeth)
They do lose their peg teeth too when the teeth are removed, which is designed to assist in grooming, so you’ll need to step up your grooming game, while they can still lick they cant clean their fur properly, so sometimes will need additional help in that sense

As a word of warning the teeth can grow back, and that needs to be kept an eye on!

[Matt]

Because of teeth issue he does struggle with grooming anyway so we do have a few brush sets lying about, my partner and I know that it can be tough to start we are actually having a week off work with him after the operation. I have been told they can regrow their teeth as well.

I just wanted to make sure it is the right thing as I don’t want him to hate us haha.

[jerseygirl]

They do lose their peg teeth too when the teeth are removed, which is designed to assist in grooming, so you’ll need to step up your grooming game, while they can still lick they cant clean their fur properly, so sometimes will need additional help in that sense

Good to know! Thanks, Dface!

@Matt, it would be normal for your little guy to be standoffish afterward at first. But I’m sure he’d come around. Hopefully it will mean less vet visits in the long run and he’d have to be happy about that!
Hope it all goes well.

[Author]

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