Dental disease is the most common and serious health problem in pet rabbits, causing chronic pain that is frequently unrecognised by owners.
Dental disease causes significant chronic pain in affected rabbits. The hidden nature of oral pathology means many animals suffer for extended periods before owners notice behavioural changes. The pain from dental spurs and root abscesses is considerable and profoundly affects quality of life. Prevention through appropriate hay-based diet is highly effective but requires owner education. Veterinary dental assessment should be included in routine health checks, and owners should learn to recognise early warning signs.