Spinal fractures causing hindlimb paralysis are among the most devastating injuries in rabbits, often caused by inappropriate handling or falls. Prevention and management protect rabbit welfare.
Rabbit spinal injuries represent a largely preventable welfare tragedy caused primarily by inappropriate handling. Rabbits must be taught from an early age to accept handling calmly, and handlers must be trained to support the rabbit's full body weight including hindquarters, preventing the panicked kicking that causes spinal fracture. Once injured, paralysed rabbits require significant daily care including bladder expression, prevention of pressure sores, and enrichment appropriate for their mobility limitations. The welfare of paralysed rabbits depends on the commitment of their owners to providing this intensive care. Quality of life for well-managed paralysed rabbits can be good, and many owners report their rabbits remain engaged, curious, and apparently content despite their physical limitations.