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Rearguard yes or no?

A

andy5898

Warren Scout
Last year I rear guarded both my bunnies. My bunny population is growing considerably as I adopt more and more!

What do others think is rear guarding worth it or not? I have no problem rear guarding all my bunnies but just wondered what others thought and if it is worth the stress for the bunny for the protection it gives?

Cheers
 
I don't tend to use it either, but if I had a bunny that was quite old, disabled or a bit podgy I would reconsider. Also if the bun had a fluffy bum was was inclined to have loose stools.

I make sure I keep the litter trays clean every day in summer and an eye on the poops being produced.
 
I am Rearguarding all of my bunnies but it is mainly because I have two with kidney/urinary incontinence issues, so I am Rearguarding them and their partners, and the other pair live close by so am doing them all for some peace of mind.

The incontinence makes my buns at high risk. However I have also taken other preventative measures, such as fly-netting the mesh of the run and enclosure, citronella oil around the hutch, maintaining high levels of hygiene, twice daily bum checks etc. So there are other measures you can take instead or as well as. :)
 
If your rabbits are fit and well, and are able to reach their bottoms to keep themselves clean, then good husbandry is the key i.e cleaning out their living quarters as often as possible, but at least 3 times a week.

If they are compromised in any way that means they are unable to keep themselves clean, the Rearguard may be an option.

I don't like to put chemicals on animals unnecessarily, but there is a place for these deterrents when a bun needs it.
 
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