Welfare impact of ear conditions in pet rabbits

Research by the Royal Veterinary College reveals that affected rabbits are less likely to display binkying behaviour and are more likely to experience a reduction in overall quality of life A recent questionnaire conducted by the Royal Veterinary College (RVC), has found that approximately one quarter of pet rabbits in the sample were reportedly affected by ear conditions that are painful and/or impair their hearing. The findings suggest that increased recognition is needed because of its associated harms to rabbit welfare. By raising awareness of the conditions and those most susceptible, owners and breeders can be better equipped to seek treatment and select healthy rabbits and thus, improve rabbit welfare. While ear diseases are typically described as 'common' in rabbits, prevalence estimates vary, with one study finding that 3.5% of rabbits will experience certain ear conditions over their lifetime. However, ear conditions can be difficult to recognise in rabbits, so can be easily missed. Behavioural signs of pain and hearing loss usually manifest as unresponsiveness and reduced activity. These can easily go unnoticed by owners or vets, especially if long-term, and rabbits may hide pain when humans are present.