How to Groom a Longhaired Bunny

Did you recently adopt a longhaired bunny, like an Angora? These extra fluffy rabbits are as cute as can be. But, Floppy can’t maintain all that fur herself. You’ll have to regularly groom her. A local veterinarian discusses several ways to help your bunny look her best.

Summer

During the summer, you’ll have to be super careful that you keep Fluffy clean and dry. If you don’t, she could develop flystrike. You’ll want to check her skin and coat every day. Your veterinarian might also recommend a flystrike preventative medicine. And, keep your rabbit hydrated. Don’t let your furry friend overheat!

Molting

Several times a year, your bunny will molt, meaning, she’ll shed her old fur and grow in a new coat. Molting Is a little more intense than regular shedding. Grooming is especially important during molting seasons. One problem here is that if Floppy swallows her fur, she isn’t able to vomit it back up the way a cat can. That fur, or hairballs, can be dangerous, even life threatening, because they can cause intestinal blockages. Talk to your veterinarian about signs and symptoms to watch for.

Tools

When you buy your grooming tools, be very selective. Your choices include combs, a slicker brush, a mat rake, or another brush. Make sure these tools don’t pull too hard. Rabbits have very delicate skin that tears easily. Most likely, you’ll want to begin with a special mat comb or wide-toothed comb. Then, finish up with a tool that has narrower teeth.

Problem Areas

It’s important to take care of Floppy’s armpit areas, because that’s where the most mats occur. Your veterinarian might recommend clipping or even shaving these problem areas. Ask for advice.

Bathing

Never give a rabbit a bath. If Floppy gets something spilled on her fur, you can softly clean off the dirty area. One thing you can do is hold your bunny carefully and, if possible, put just the part or her that’s dirty into a lukewarm tub or sink, and move the water around. Never put your pet’s head or whole body under the water. This is terrifying for bunnies, and they can actually go into shock.

Convincing Floppy

Rabbits’ reactions to being groomed vary greatly. Choose a time when your bunny is relaxed. As you brush her, talk to her softly, and give her praise and treats. Don’t try to do long sessions. About 10 or 15 minutes is probably plenty.

Contact your local animal clinic for more information on grooming your rabbit!