Determining A Bunny’s Age/Other Qs

[Kax0r]

Hey, this is my first post here.. origonally signed up because my rabbit had an awful case of hardened poopybutt that stunk so bad I couldn’t even pet him (HELL NO DON’T SIT UP HERE WITH ME!), but that’s resolved. However, his poopybutt has given me worries about his age and inibility to clean himself.

 I got my rabbit from a rescue mission about 5-7 years ago, desexed and housebroken. He was an adult at the time (if I had to guess, as I was not told his age, I would guess one year to 1.5 years old), and his amazingly colored coat was one of the reasons I got him since I didn’t know too much about picking rabbits at the time (I really wanted a floppy-eared buns (CUTE), but he litterally came to me at the shelter outdoor grounds and gave me a take-me-home-look). He since then has his own part of the room where it has fake linoleum flooring, water, food, hay bowls, a litter box, hiding places, the works. We also let him occasionally roam the house, and he pretty much never has accidents. I know I’m starting to ramble here- but his coat, teeth, and ears are in amazing condition, but he is having a slight difficulty cleaning himself. What I’m really dying to know is how old do you think he is? Feel free to ask other questions, and I can provide pictures if needed.

 

He has had absolutely NO health complications and I have NEVER needed to take him to the vet. I’m pretty much just wondering how much longer I have with him.

 

Also, I feel he was being abused at his old home before he got rescued and I adopted him and he REFUSES to be held. Even if you pick him up one inch he will start kicking, squeaking, and scratching. I know it is a bit late to ask this, but is there ANY way I can break him of this habit?

 

 

[jerseygirl]

Welcome!
You’ve been lucky he’s been a healthy boy mostly! Glad to hear you resolved the poopy butt issue too. On your last question, I think he would be pretty set about this. Some just do not like and will not tolerate being held – ever. Most rabbits don’t like being picked up and held. I think at his age and how long he’s been this way, it would be very difficult to change.

I think you can safely say your rabbit is a senior. Just going on what you’ve said he is likely 7yrs at minimum . There really isn’t a way to accurately tell a rabbits age. At this age, it is common to have blood work done to keep a better eye on their health. 2 reasons I can think of with his difficulty in cleaning himself is 1) he may be overweight or 2) he may be suffering from some arthritis.

How were you able to clear up his poopy butt?

Pictures are always welcomed. What’s your rabbits name?

[Kax0r]

His name is Peanut, he is a TINY bit overweight but I plan on resolving that via a diet change. I can safely say I got my rabbit in January ’05 or possibly ’06, so he would be 6-ish years old assuming he was 1 when I got him this coming Jan.

I pretty much just soaked his butt in a small tub, then he partly shook it off himself resisting my holds . For the last bit I had to use small pliers to break up the other clumps.

Will upload pics tomorrow.

How much does blood work typically cost?

[jerseygirl]

I don’t know about the cost as my 2 are younger – sorry.
Does he still suffer from the messy poop?

[Beka27]

Welcome! Thank you for rescuing him! It sounds like he’s well taken care of and very lucky to have you!

I would encourage a trip to the vet. Generally, yearly check-up visits are recommended (no different than with cats, dogs, people) so I really think you’d benefit from having him looked at. The vet would be able to check his general condition, his teeth, weight, if he needs to lose weight and how much, and give you any diet suggestions for making it safe for him. The recent concern with poopy butt should also be brought to the vet’s attention. Sometimes all that is needed is a small tweak in diet.

Another thing to keep in consideration is that as buns get older, health problems will arise.  It’s very important that you have a rabbit savvy vet who is familiar with your bun and has records on him.  When an emergency arrives, that is NOT the best time to start looking for a competent vet.

[Sarita]

Definitely take him to the vet – just because in the past you have felt you never needed to, it sounds like you need to now.

He needs a physical examination from the vet in order for the vet to help you.

The majority of my rabbits are over 7 years old and I have a variety of medical issues with them and I really rely on my vet for help and support with them.

[Kokaneeandkahlua]

Welcome!!!

Rabbits have difficulty cleanign themselves when they are obese and overweight.

So two things are causing the yucky bum…
1) diet-too many carbs and sugars-so tell us what you feed him?
2) health problem-soooo really needs a vet visit.

Honestly if the bun is as old as you say-even if it were a baby when you brought him homes years ago-he should have a vet visit every six months. Once a year is good-but when they are elderly 1/2 a year is *better* Sooo go to the vet anyways-check for coccidia and other problems first.
Then-depending on what your feeding-diet may really clear this up

Keep us posted please!

[bunnytowne]

As far as picking him up….  as you probably know it is sometimes necessary to do this

I had trained Cotton to be ok with being picked up like not running or struggling.   However having had to treat him with meds for several months he broke his training.  

Ok heres what I did    when I would go to pick him up I would say pick you up or  I am going to pick you up so he would know what to expect   and when I picked him  up I would give him a treat.    He did very well

Hopefully I can get him to be relaxed about it agian  will probably take several months.  

Thought this might help

This may not work for all rabbits but it is worth a try             Give it a shot for 2 months and see if he is better adjusted  with being picked up

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