Reasons & Prevention for Meat Rabbit Moulting

I. Nonpathological Hair Loss in Rabbits

1. Prenatal Hair Loss in Female Rabbits: As a natural part of their reproductive process, female rabbits will often pull out some of their fur in the days leading up to giving birth, using it to create a nest for their kits. This is a normal physiological occurrence in rabbits. However, pet owners can help minimize fur loss by preparing a nesting box in advance, lining it with soft materials like straw, which will reduce the amount of fur that is shed.

2. Destructive HairPulling Behavior: Some rabbits may develop a habit of pulling or eating their own fur, leading to hair loss. In such cases, pet owners can correct this behavior by isolating the rabbit or increasing its intake of fresh green feed.

3. Seasonal Moulting: Rabbits typically undergo a period of physiological moulting in March to April and September to October. During these times, rabbits will naturally shed their fur.

4. FrictionInduced Hair Loss: Longterm friction between the rabbit's body and the cage or feeding box can cause hair loss. To prevent this, pet owners should regularly inspect and maintain the smoothness of the cage and rabbit accessories to minimize unnecessary fur shedding.

5. Nutritional Deficiencies Leading to Hair Loss: A lack of fiber in the rabbit's diet, or deficiencies in essential minerals like calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium, as well as vitamins, can lead to hair loss. If hair loss is due to a deficiency, it's important to adjust the diet accordingly, adding specific nutrients or supplements.

II. Pathological Hair Loss

1. Parasitic Infections Causing Hair Loss: External parasites, such as mange mites, can lead to widespread hair loss in rabbits. This condition, known as mange, is more prevalent during winter and spring. Affected areas often show inflammatory exudates and may develop pusfilled crusts if secondary bacterial infections occur. The presence of mites can be confirmed under a lowpower microscope. Treatment involves injecting the rabbit with an insecticide or applying a specific mange treatment, along with thorough disinfection of the living quarters.

2. Fungal Skin Diseases Leading to Hair Loss: Skin fungal diseases can affect rabbits of all ages and occur yearround, though they are more common in young rabbits. Affected rabbits may exhibit white dandruff with surrounding papules, leading to circular patches of hair loss. Treatment involves applying antifungal medications or oral administration of griseofulvin, with the added benefit of removing any remaining fur from the affected area before applying medication.

3. Bacterial Diseases Causing Hair Loss: Bacterial diseases can lead to skin inflammation and subsequent hair loss. For instance, necrotizing clostridial infections can cause wounds that lead to ulcers and abscesses, resulting in hair loss. Other bacterial infections, such as those caused by Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus, can also lead to hair loss.

Pet Owner's Tip: When dealing with rabbit hair loss, it's crucial for pet owners to conduct a comprehensive analysis. Begin by considering the rabbit's nutrition and then investigate potential health issues. It's important not to treat all cases of hair loss with the same method; treatment should be tailored to the underlying cause.

Remember, a healthy rabbit is a happy rabbit!