What Flea Medicine Can Be Used On Rabbits?

by | Last updated on January 24, 2024

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What flea medicine can be used on rabbits?

There are no rabbit-specific drugs for managing fleas

. All products used are for dogs and cats, and their use in rabbits is described as ‘off label. ‘ Topical cat medications, such as Advantage® or Revolution® appear to be safe but should ONLY be used under the guidance of a veterinarian familiar with rabbits.

What flea treatment is safe for bunnies?

If your pet is suffering from fleas, the safest and most effective product for rabbits over 8 weeks of age is

Advantage® II

, a topical medication containing imidacloprid. You can purchase this medication from your veterinarian, a local pet store, or online.

How do you get rid of fleas on rabbits naturally?


Apple Cider Vinegar: Using 1 part vinegar and 1 part water the rabbit can be sprayed with the mixture and rubbed into their fur to get rid of flea infestation

. As a preventative measure, you can add about 1 Tablespoon of apple cider vinegar per 1 Gallon of water to your rabbit’s daily water supply.

Do rabbits need regular flea treatment?

For Outdoor Rabbits


Treat all rabbits, cats and dogs in the home with flea treatment

. Check other furry family members carefully to check they are not also infested, and treat if required. If any indoor pets have fleas, make sure to treat the house as well as the outdoor hutch.

Can you use dog flea treatment on rabbits?


There are no rabbit-specific drugs for managing fleas

. All products used are for dogs and cats, and their use in rabbits is described as ‘off label. ‘ Topical cat medications, such as Advantage® or Revolution® appear to be safe but should ONLY be used under the guidance of a veterinarian familiar with rabbits.

How do you tell if your rabbit has fleas?

  1. Your rabbit nibbling or scratching its skin.
  2. Fur loss.
  3. Flea bitemarks – small red bumps on your rabbit’s skin.
  4. Evidence of flea droppings, which look like specks of black dirt.
  5. Anaemia – fleas suck blood and if they’re present in large numbers can make your bunny quite weak.

Does apple cider vinegar help with fleas on rabbits?

One part vinegar and one part water can be sprayed on [any pet’s] fur and rubbed in generously to the skin. Saturate the entire coat, and continue every day for a few days to a week;

any flea infestation will disappear

.

Can I bathe my rabbit for fleas?

Rinse them in hot, soapy water or plain rubbing alcohol to drown/kill the fleas and flea eggs.

NEVER GIVE A RABBIT A FLEA BATH OR DIP

. We do not recommend a flea dip for rabbits. The stress of the bath and the ingredients in the shampoo or dip may be harmful to your rabbit.

Does apple cider vinegar help with fleas?


While Apple Cider Vinegar does not kill fleas, it may repel them because fleas dislike its smell and taste

. One of the most simple ways to use this natural flea repellent is to make a solution out of equal parts apple cider vinegar and water.

Can my indoor rabbit get fleas?

You can even let fleas into your home by just opening your windows; those little buggers can actually jump high enough to access your house through the screens. But

most commonly, rabbits will catch fleas from one of the other family pets, particularly dogs or cats

.

Do rabbits get fleas or mites?


The two most common external parasites in pet rabbits are Cheyletiella mites and fleas

. Cheyletiella mites are often referred to as fur mites. They cause pruritus and, if left unchecked, they can take over a rabbit’s entire hair coat.

Is Ultra Care Flea and Tick Spray safe for rabbits?

8in1 UltraCare Flea & Tick Spray for Small Animals

controls fleas and ticks on hamsters, gerbils, rabbits, guinea pigs and mice

. This tough, effective formula is gentle enough to be used directly on listed pets to help control annoying flea and tick problems.

Are rabbit fleas the same as cat fleas?

Rabbit Basic Science

Fleas can be found on pet rabbits, although

they are not usually the rabbit flea (Spilopsyllus cuniculi) but the cat or dog flea (Ctenocephalides felis or canis) caught from other pets in the household

.

Is Capstar safe for rabbits?

Treatment and Prognosis

Maggots: Direct removal, or can use Capstar PO (nitenpyram 1 mg/kg PO). Fleas: In general, the treatment for fleas in ferrets is similar to that for cats.

Rabbits on the other hand should never be given fipronil (Frontline) as it causes seizures and/or death in rabbits

.

Can I use Revolution on rabbits?

Revolution is a pour-on insecticide, originally for cats and dogs, that

has now been approved for rabbits

. It is very safe and effective in rabbits from 8 weeks of age and is active against fur mites, ear mites, sarcoptes mites as well as fleas. It is important you use the correct dose and formulation.

Can rabbit fleas live on humans?


Fleas do not live on humans

because they lack substantial hair like animals, and it’s very difficult to reproduce without the protection of fur or feathers.

Can rabbits get mites from hay?


There are two main ways that your rabbit can contract mites: from hay, or from an infected animal

. Many owners state that you should freeze the hay that you buy for 72 hours, then leave it to defrost for a few days before serving it to your rabbits.

How do I know if my rabbit has mites?

Visual signs include

chronic dandruff, “walking dandruff,” chronic scratching of the hindquarters, nape of neck, and along the back, sores or scabs in the same areas, and hair loss

. Microscopic diagnosis of the mites or eggs recovered by a skin scraping, combing, or acetate tape can positively identify an infestation.

What kills fleas instantly home remedy?


Salt

. Much like baking soda, salt is a great natural flea home remedy when accompanied by vacuuming. Salt acts as a dehydration agent, helping to get rid of adult fleas. To treat fleas with this natural remedy take some salt (finely ground works best) and sprinkle it all over your carpets in each room.

Can I spray my rabbit with apple cider vinegar?


ACV is known for keeping the rabbits fur softer and shinier

. Many rabbit breeders feel that by adding ACV to your rabbits water this will result in healthier rabbits by increasing the nutrient absorption capabilities of the G.I. tract as well as helping with the whole digestive process.

How do you make homemade flea spray?

Can I use dawn on my rabbit?

Will it clean effectively? The short answer is that

Dawn dish soap can be used occasionally if needed, but it shouldn’t be a regular product used for bathing your rabbit

. However, when you’re cleaning your rabbit’s cage, Dawn dish soap is perfectly safe and effective.

Can fleas live in Hay?

Fleas. Fleas love pets and livestock, even in the winter. Fleas are able to survive the winter in bales of hay and straw. Placing hay inside a doghouse gives Fido exposure to fleas all year round.

What shampoo is safe for rabbits?

  • Kaytee Squeaky Clean Critter Small Animal Shampoo – Best Overall. …
  • Kaytee Quick & Clean Small Animal Instant Shampoo – Best Value. …
  • Marshall Foaming Waterless Shampoo for Small Pets – Premium Choice. …
  • Espree Hypoallergenic Tear-Free Aloe Vera Shampoo.

What is the best homemade flea killer?

  1. Apple Cider Vinegar Spray. …
  2. Lemon, Lavender And Witch Hazel Spray. …
  3. Listerine Shampoo Treatment. …
  4. Brewers Yeast And Coconut Oil Flea Prevention Dog Treats. …
  5. Dawn Dish Liquid And Vinegar Flea Shampoo. …
  6. Baking Soda And Salt Furniture Powder.

What smells do fleas hate?


Citronella, eucalyptus, peppermint, tea tree, and rosemary

will all naturally repel fleas. If your dog doesn’t mind a spray bottle, dilute a few drops of your chosen essential oil into a 300ml-400ml of water and spray directly onto your dog’s coat.

Does baking soda repel fleas?


Baking soda does not kill adult fleas

and will do nothing to protect your pets. It is excellent at absorbing smells and has been suggested by some online pet sites for use as a flea killer because it “may” dry out flea eggs and larvae.

Can I use coconut oil on my rabbit skin?


Coconut oil can also be used topically to protect your small pet’s skin

. The MCFAs in the oil help speed up cellular repair processes and prevent skin infections from developing.

Can rabbits get fleas from grass?



Rabbits can and do get fleas from the grass

. They can also get fur mites. If the rabbit has any problems or is prone to any kind of poppy butt they can get FLY STRIKE (which is a horrid condition of maggots).

Is permethrin safe for rabbits?


The permethrin cypermethrin has been shown to induce oxidative stress in rabbits

. Synthetic pyrethroids have shown to have toxic effects on the reproductive tract of rabbits.

What helps an itchy rabbit?

Often, your rabbit’s itchiness can be prevented by

keeping its environment clean

. The freezing recommendation for any rabbit supplies is an excellent place to begin as is the use of fragrance-free laundry products for any washable rabbit bedding. Beyond these, be sure that your rabbit’s cage is as clean as possible.

What are the signs of mites?

Key points about flea, mite, or chigger bites

Symptoms may include

small, raised skin bumps and pain or itching

. There may also be swelling or blistering. Call 911 if you have signs of a severe allergic reaction. These include trouble breathing, tightness in the chest or throat, or feeling faint or dizzy.

How do you prevent mites on rabbits?

Preventing Ear Mites.

Clean your rabbit’s ears regularly

. Wipe out any debris with a clean soft cloth. You can add a few drops of an ear cleaner that is safe for cats or a few drops of baby oil or olive oil.

How do you treat ticks on rabbits?

Can indoor rabbits get ticks?

Any warm-blooded animal can attract ticks. Rabbits are no exception. If your bunny exercises outside, they may attract ticks.

Ticks can also thrive and survive indoors, especially in humid environments

.

Is Sevin dust safe for rabbits?


Dust your rabbit with 5% carbaryl insecticide (a common brand name is 5% Sevin Dust) working the dust down through Bunny’s thick fur to the skin

. Bunny might try to lick some of it off; assuming he doesn’t go overboard, this is probably all right.

Diane Mitchell
Author
Diane Mitchell
Diane Mitchell is an animal lover and trainer with over 15 years of experience working with a variety of animals, including dogs, cats, birds, and horses. She has worked with leading animal welfare organizations. Diane is passionate about promoting responsible pet ownership and educating pet owners on the best practices for training and caring for their furry friends.