Companion Animals

Rabbit Spinal Injury Prevention

Rabbits have extremely fragile spines that can fracture from improper handling or falls, causing paralysis and euthanasia of otherwise healthy animals.

Key Facts

Rabbit spinal fractures occur most commonly from improper restraint or dropping
Rabbit muscles are powerful enough to break their own spine during struggling
Spinal cord injury typically results in hindlimb paralysis requiring intensive care or euthanasia
Children frequently handle rabbits in ways that risk spinal injury

Welfare Considerations

Rabbit spinal injuries are a significant welfare problem caused almost entirely by improper handling. The power of rabbit leg muscles means that a frightened, struggling rabbit can fracture its own spine against improper restraint. Children who handle rabbits unsupervised represent the highest risk category. Proper handling education and adequate supervision can prevent these serious, painful, and often fatal injuries.

What You Can Do

Never allow unsupervised children to handle rabbits
Learn proper rabbit handling technique that supports the hindquarters completely
Always place rabbits at low height when setting them down to prevent falls
Teach children rabbit handling safety before any interaction with the animals