Horwich Advertiser Issue 621

Page 26 April 2025 AD SALES 01204 478812 158 Chorley New Road, Horwich BL6 5QW. Tel: 01204 694004 53 Chorley Road, Westhoughton BL5 3PD. Tel: 01942 818845 www.pikemoorvets.co.uk • Locally owned • Highly professional practice • Dedicated to caring for all your pets PETS TO ADVERTISE CALL 01204 478812 MANY humans experience arthri- tis as they get older, and the same is true for rabbits. The most common form of arthritis in rabbits is osteoarthritis, a type of inflammation that causes pain and stiffness in the joints. While it can be painful and can’t be cured as such, your rabbit should still be able to live a full and active life with the right combination of treatments. Symptoms of osteoarthritis in rabbits include stiffness or wobbling when mov- ing, not being able to eat soft morning stools directly from their bottom or a dirt or urine-soaked bottom. Other signs include an inability to angle their pelvis properly when weeing, meaning they can’t com- pletely empty their bladder, moving around less when it’s cold or damp, a reduced appetite and unexplained aggression towards their owner or bonded partner. If you notice any of these signs, or are concerned about your rabbit, please get in touch with your vet practice. Your vet will be able to diagnose oste- oarthritis and recommend some helpful methods for managing the condition. Treatment options may include: weight management, putting coverings on slippery floors and surfaces to aid movement, providing a litter tray that is low at the front and has no sharp edges and keeping your rabbit warm in cold and damp weather. Other measures include providing ramps or steps to get up to hutches, ensuring they have plenty of space to do gentle exercise and giving them things to play with and lots of environmental and feeding enrichment. It’s also a good idea to keep an eye on your rabbit’s bottom, groom them regu- larly and maintain regular treatment against the Flystrike disease. For further advice about rabbit care, please get in touch with your nearest vets practice. Could your rabbit have arthritis?