Companion Animals

Dental Disease Welfare in Pet Rabbits

Dental problems are the leading cause of chronic suffering in pet rabbits, often stemming from inappropriate feeding.

Key Facts

Rabbit teeth grow continuously throughout their lives and require constant wearing
Pellet-only diets cause dental malocclusion because pellets require little chewing
Hay should make up 80-90 percent of a rabbit's diet to maintain dental health
Dental disease in rabbits causes difficulty eating, drooling, and weight loss
Many rabbits suffer dental problems for months before owners seek veterinary help

Welfare Considerations

Rabbit dental disease is profoundly debilitating, causing chronic pain and progressive inability to eat. The root cause is usually an inappropriate diet lacking adequate long-stemmed hay. Proper nutrition is the most effective welfare intervention for preventing this widespread suffering.

What You Can Do

Provide unlimited fresh hay as the foundation of your rabbit's diet
Limit pellets to a small measured daily portion
Schedule regular veterinary dental checks for pet rabbits
Spread awareness that hay is essential, not optional, for rabbit welfare