Rabbits can get fleas too, just like cats and dogs. They usually get them from other animals as fleas are able to jump from one animal to another. Your pet may have taken them after a visit to someone's home, garden, or vet. If your rabbit has fleas, you will need to use a suitable treatment to remove them. You will also need to treat other pets and your home to prevent fleas from returning.
Steps
Part 1 of 3: Basic Treatments
Step 1. Try a topical medication
One solution against fleas is to use a topical medication, provided you consult your veterinarian first. These medicines are usually indicated for dogs and cats, but can also be used on rabbits. You can buy this drug from your vet or at a pet store.
- The main treatments you can use are Advantage, Program and Revolution. The latter fights not only fleas, but also ear mites, thus making it more complete and beneficial. The Advantage, on the other hand, could cause allergic reactions on the rabbit's skin
- Apply flea treatment to the back of the rabbit's neck. This way, you will prevent your pet from licking it and feeling bad.
Step 2. Use a flea comb
A flea comb is a special cleaning tool that has a row of metal teeth that are closer together than a classic one. While it doesn't kill all fleas, it can help eliminate some of the problem. Run the flea comb along the rabbit's fur. When removing fleas, be sure to soak them in warm soapy water, or if you prefer, denatured ethyl alcohol. Rinse the comb and pass it through the rabbit fur again
You can buy a flea comb online or at a pet store
Step 3. Use a spray or powder solution
Some sprays and powders can be used on rabbits, but it is best to consult a veterinarian before doing so. Your vet will help you choose the best product and can apply it for you.
However, some vets may discourage the use of these treatments, since rabbits are bothered by baths and may lick off any dust or spray applied
Part 2 of 3: Choose Healthy Products
Step 1. Avoid Frontline and Sentinel
While some flea medications are safe for rabbits, these two are not. Absolutely avoid using them as they can cause severe symptoms for your rabbit.
Using non-recommended products can be dangerous to your rabbit's health as they could injure or kill him
Step 2. Do not use products that contain permatrin or organophosphates
These two ingredients can be found in flea products such as powders or vials. However, they are not safe to use on rabbits, so be sure to check the active ingredients before using the product.
Step 3. Don't use flea collars
Flea collars may seem like a smart solution because the care is always close to the animal; nevertheless, they are dangerous for the rabbit's skin and can cause burns. In addition, there is a risk that the animal will gnaw the collar and poison itself
Part 3 of 3: Get Rid of Fleas in the House
Step 1. Treat other pets
If your rabbit has fleas, other pets are likely to have them too. For example, if you have dogs or cats, it is important that you take care of them too; by doing so, they cannot infect each other again.
Step 2. Disinfect the area
If the fleas remain in the house, the rabbit can be re-infested. If you want to try a DIY remedy like insecticide spray or bombs, you will need to keep the rabbit away from that area for at least a day.
You can use boric acid or diatomite on the carpet. Start by vacuuming, then spread the dust on the carpet and let it sit for at least 30 minutes. Finally, go over the vacuum cleaner
Step 3. Hire a professional
The easiest way to get rid of fleas is to hire a professional exterminator. Be sure to consult the company first about the effect of their products on animals. It may be necessary to keep the animal away from the area that will be treated.
