Unsure of rabbit’s age and worried about health

[Julee Bun]

Well, basically I’ve had Julee for 3-ish months. She used to be my friend’s rabbit, but she had to move so I took over. Apparently, she wasn’t really taken care of, so I’d give myself a pat on the back for researching and actually giving her proper care. She lived in a very small cage. Wasn’t let out, like ever, and had no toys etc. Since then, I’ve changed all that. I’ve connected a dog x-pen to her cage and she can now go in and out 24/7. She has unlimited hay and water. I also give her some pellets (like a handful) and a plate of [safe] vegetables. My friend was also given the bunny and has no idea how old or if she’s spayed. I’m assuming that she’s not spayed because of her territorial nature. She’s sweet, but she is often very grumpy. Recently I’ve noticed that she’s sleeping a lot. Especially on her side. Now I’ve heard this is a good thing; meaning they’re comfortable. But sometimes I walk past the room and think she’s dead or something.
I’m really worried… is it normal for them to sleep so often? I mean, don’t get m wrong. Sometimes I see her up and playing with toilet paper rolls and stuff, but most often, she’s sleeping. She seems to be fully grown, based on her size. I’ve watched a few videos that can help determine their age, but all involve getting physical with her (checking her paws to see if her feet are calloused; old bunnies usually have them) And as of now, I’ve not picked her up. Honestly, I’ve never had to so I just haven’t. But I do have a feeling, based on observing her personality, that she wouldn’t like it anyway. And she seems the type to hold a grudge.
Now I’m just rambling… but the overall question is, is it normal for adult rabbits to sleep so often? I know they have a special sleeping schedule, but still. It scares me sometimes.

[Dasher]

I think its normal for rabbits to sleep a lot. One of my rabbits is very lazy and sleeps a lot but is most active at night.

[jerseygirl]

I agree, they do sleep a lot! Given that you don’t know her age and she was caged all the time previously, I do encourage you have her looked over by a vet. Just to check her condition. Some rabbits can develop arthritis at an early age. Her being given lack of opportunity to exercise before could increase the risk.

I hope you see lots of improvements in her over the coming months. : )

[sarahthegemini]

Posted By Julee Bun on 9/23/2017 11:52 PM

Well, basically I’ve had Julee for 3-ish months. She used to be my friend’s rabbit, but she had to move so I took over. Apparently, she wasn’t really taken care of, so I’d give myself a pat on the back for researching and actually giving her proper care. She lived in a very small cage. Wasn’t let out, like ever, and had no toys etc. Since then, I’ve changed all that. I’ve connected a dog x-pen to her cage and she can now go in and out 24/7. She has unlimited hay and water. I also give her some pellets (like a handful) and a plate of [safe] vegetables. My friend was also given the bunny and has no idea how old or if she’s spayed. I’m assuming that she’s not spayed because of her territorial nature. She’s sweet, but she is often very grumpy. Recently I’ve noticed that she’s sleeping a lot. Especially on her side. Now I’ve heard this is a good thing; meaning they’re comfortable. But sometimes I walk past the room and think she’s dead or something.
I’m really worried… is it normal for them to sleep so often? I mean, don’t get m wrong. Sometimes I see her up and playing with toilet paper rolls and stuff, but most often, she’s sleeping. She seems to be fully grown, based on her size. I’ve watched a few videos that can help determine their age, but all involve getting physical with her (checking her paws to see if her feet are calloused; old bunnies usually have them) And as of now, I’ve not picked her up. Honestly, I’ve never had to so I just haven’t. But I do have a feeling, based on observing her personality, that she wouldn’t like it anyway. And she seems the type to hold a grudge.
Now I’m just rambling… but the overall question is, is it normal for adult rabbits to sleep so often? I know they have a special sleeping schedule, but still. It scares me sometimes.

It sounds like you’re giving her a much better hone than your friend ever did, so that’s good! Sleeping on their side is very normal and it’s what they do when they feel comfortable and safe (as prey animals, they have to be alert so often sleep in a manner that allows for a quick get-away. Sleeping on their side would take longer to get up and run so they only do it when they feel really safe) Bunnies are most active early morning and evening and spend the majority of the day sleeping. That’s nothing to worry about I’d definitely get her checked at the vet tho, they’ll hopefully be able to confirm her age and whether or not she’s been spayed. 

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