My dwarf lop is forever licking anything and anyone, he will lick himself constantly. He has licked under his chin raw. He has a misaligned jaw but his teeth are regularly filed and shouldn't cause any problems. He has plenty of fresh hay, water, food, a run attached to his cage, boxes, toys, paper to chew and I even got him a soft toy which again he constantly grooms to distract him from licking himself. Is there anything I can do as his chin looks pretty sore but I can't put anything on it as he will lick it right off. I considered getting him a companion but then he would just lick them bald too. Any advice, could it be something else i'm overlooking? Thanks x :?
-
Forum/Server Upgrade If you are reading this you have made it to the upgraded forum. Posts made on the old forum after 26th October 2023 have not been transfered. Everything else should be here. If you find any issues please let us know.
-
Please Note - Medical Advice
Please keep in mind that posts on this forum are from members of the public sharing personal opinions. It is not a replacement for qualified medical advice from a veterinarian. Many illnesses share similar symptoms but require different treatments. A medical exam is necessary for an accurate diagnosis, without which appropriate treatment cannot be given.
You should always consult your vet before following any suggestions for medication or treatment you have read about. The wrong treatment could make your rabbit worse or mean your vet is unable to give the correct treatment because of drug interactions. Even non prescription drugs can do harm if given inappropriately.
We are very grateful to members who take time to answer other members questions, but please do be clear in your replies that you are sharing personal experience and not giving instructions on what must be done.
Urgent Medical Advice: If you need, or think you might need, urgent medical advice you should contact a vet. If it is out of working hours phone your vet's normal number and there should be an answer phone message with instructions on what to do.
Overgrooming
- Thread starter emilyyy
- Start date
tasherd
Warren Scout
It is usually a sign of boredom, anxiety etc. a friend may be a good idea but it depends if like you said he would do the same to them. I would make him some toys/ buy some with newspaper, toilet rolls etc. and spend as much time as possible with him, when he licks himself try stroking him or distracting him with toys when he is distracted give him a treat (they go mad for banana!) if he carrys on licking do not reward him. If this continues thought take him to the vets, he could have a absess due to a large dewlap (flap under their chin, used to keep babies warm) or fleas, mites etc. Hope this helps!
