Cutting nails in rabbits / hares

Cutting nails on rabbits & hares

Trimming the nails of rabbits is not usually necessary as rabbits wear down their nails through their natural activity. However, there are certain situations where nail trimming may be necessary:

Excessively long nails: Rabbits' nails sometimes grow excessively long, especially if the rabbit has little opportunity for climbing and digging. Excessively long nails can cause discomfort and hinder walking.

Risk of injury: Claws that are too long can get caught on objects and break off, which can lead to injuries. Damage can occur, especially on sensitive surfaces such as carpets or upholstered furniture.

Uneven Growth: In some cases, nails can grow unevenly, causing certain nails to grow longer than others. This can lead to an uneven distribution of weight on the paws and lead to walking problems.

Old or Sick Rabbits: Older or sick rabbits may not be able to adequately wear down their nails due to restricted mobility. In such cases, nail clipping may be necessary.

Injury or Disease: If a rabbit has an injury or disease to the nail, trimming may be necessary to treat the affected area and prevent infection.

If you are unsure or feel the rabbit needs professional nail trimming, consult a veterinarian or an experienced rabbit handler. You can assess the condition of the nails and perform the nail trimming safely and gently to ensure the rabbit's well-being.