How to Flea-Check Your Rabbit

It is very simple to check your rabbit for fleas.

How to Check

  1. Use a basic flea comb.

  2. Gently comb through your rabbit’s fur.

  3. Fleas are most commonly found around the neck, back, and bottom area.

  4. Look for fleas or flea droppings, which resemble black pepper.

  5. Tap the comb onto a white sheet of paper to make fleas or droppings easier to see.

If You Find Fleas

  • Contact your local exotic-animal veterinarian (DVM) for proper flea treatment.

  • Warning: The use of Frontline (fipronil) can be fatal to rabbits and should never be used.

  • If there are only a few fleas, you may be able to carefully pick them off by hand.

Home Care Steps

  1. Thoroughly clean and wash your rabbit’s bedding.

  2. Vacuum the rabbit’s living area well.

  3. Monitor your rabbit for 30 days, as flea eggs can hatch within this time.

How Fleas Can Enter Your Home

  1. Cats and dogs can bring fleas inside.

  2. Fleas may be present in hay.

  3. You can carry fleas indoors after outdoor activities such as hiking.

 

It is very simple to check for fleas on your rabbit.