Why is my rabbit loosing weight.?
Unexplained weight loss can happen due to a variety of ailments, but the first thing I’d wantto check is his kidney function. Your vet can draw a blood sample and have it tested for B.U.N. (Blood Urea Nitrogen) and creatinine levels, as well as levels of several other important indicators (e.g. total protein, phosphorus, calcium). Renal disease can cause wasting, and if he’s eating a lot but still losing weight, this is one possibility. If your bunny is drinking excessively and producing lots of pale, dilute urine, then this is a strong possibility, as this happens when the kidneys are no longer able to normally concentrate urine and remove toxins from the body. If he is not eating enough, then I would wonder whether his molars have undetected spurs that are bothering him. This can cause weight loss, too. Please see: www.bio.miami.edu/hare/dental.html for a full explanation of all the things that can cause dental problems in rabbits. Also please be sure he’s well hydrated. A dehydrated
