bunny not drinking??

[GarlandoBloom]

Hello! First time bun owner here I have a little Netherland Dwarf bunny named Bigsby, he is about 8 weeks old.

We JUST got him two days ago and he is in a nice big space and has been eating alfalfa hay, and he had a nibble of his baby rabbit pellets, but he hasn't drinken any water. I have a little bowl in there, and there is a bottle as well.

I know it can take them a bit to adjust to their new settings, I am just wanting to make sure this doesn't sound like an urgent "TAKE HIM TO THE VET RIGHT NOW" situation? Is there a way to know if he Is at that point? How long is this normal for??

I just want him to be healthy and happy. We are taking him in for a checkup next month due to funds but would absolutely take him in earlier if needed

 

[InspectorMorse]

Is he passing urine and faeces?
What is his behavior like, active and inquisitive or just hiding away hunched up?
Does he look to have a bloated belly ?
Are you certain he’s 8 weeks, not younger?

Have you tried giving him bottled water not tap water?
You say he has a water bowl and a bottle. How can you be 100% certain he isn’t drinking from the bowl unless you are measuring out how much water you put in and then measuring what there is left when you refresh the supply. Unless you are watching him 24/7 he could be having some water from the bowl that you just haven’t noticed

The important thing to look out for is any abnormal poo output - ie very tiny poo/ no poo, watery poo/diarrhoea/mucus in poo. Any signs of these abnormalities merits an urgent veterinary consultation. Not eating is another sign that he needs urgent Vet care.

The kit should be active and inquisitive. He will need places to hide to feel safe and eventually once neutered and vaccinated he will need a companion of his own kind. Rabbits are social animals and should not be kept alone, especially if housed outdoors.

I would get him Vet checked before next month. If you are in the UK he will need his vaccination, which can be given from 5 weeks of age. The Vet can also confirm the gender of your Rabbit, Breeders and Petshops are notorious for misgendering Rabbits.

This website provides a vast amount of information about all aspects of Rabbit care. I suggest you read it thoroughly as the information is well researched and up to date

Rabbit Care

Explore essential rabbit care tips for happy, healthy bunnies. From housing to diet, find expert advice and resources to ensure your rabbit's well-being. Learn more

rabbitwelfare.co.uk

Also, I would look into getting him insured. Rabbits are most definitely not cheap pets and Vet fees can be very expensive.