How to Take Your Bunny’s Temperature Step by Step

We see this all the time on Social Media posts. My rabbit is sick what should I do? You of course should see an Exotic Rabbit Vet as soon as possible.  We are medical rabbit volunteers for a local Rabbit Rabbit Group. We teach people all the time on how to take your rabbit’s temperature.

It is also important for your rabbit’s health that you know how to take their temperature. Just like people when you are sick you take your temperature.

If your rabbit’s temperature is low you should provide heat support. If your rabbit’s temperature is high you can put a little water on their ear’s. Rabbit expel temperature using their ears.

Items Needed

1. Quick-read, flexible-tip digital thermometer

2. KY Jelly lubricant or similar

3. Alcohol wipe or similar to sanitize the thermometer after use

Process (1 or 2 People)

1. Gently hold your bunny in your non-dominant arm, supporting the back at all times.

   • A second person can help by holding and calming the bunny.

2. Liberally apply lubricant to the anus, which is located just above the tail.

3. Apply the lubricant from the top of the opening toward the tail.

4. You will see the anus as a vertical opening.

5. Place lubricant on the tip of the thermometer.

6. Gently insert the thermometer into the anus — NEVER force it.

7. Insert only just beyond the metal tip of the thermometer.

8. Press the start button. It should beep in about 8 seconds (depending on the thermometer).

9. A normal rabbit temperature is 101°F to 103°F (38.3°C–39.4°C).

10. If you get an unusually low reading, repeat the measurement to confirm.

11. If you have a bonded pair, you can take the healthy rabbit’s temperature as a reference.

Aftercare

• Clean and sanitize the thermometer with an alcohol wipe after use.

• If your bunny’s temperature is outside the normal range, contact a rabbit-savvy veterinarian.