Shocking Report: 1 in 5 rabbit owners neglecting this common yet painful pet condition!

The truth about ear disease in rabbits has been concealed for too long, leaving these adorable pets suffering in silence. We embarked on a groundbreaking study to shed light on the prevalence and consequences of this common yet elusive condition. Brace yourself for the shocking revelations that could change the way we care for our furry companions!

Through an extensive online questionnaire, we delved into the lives of 551 UK pet rabbits and their owners. What we uncovered was astonishing: a staggering 28.5% of rabbits had experienced ear conditions, and among them, 21.2% were diagnosed or mentioned by veterinarians. Otitis and excess cerumen emerged as the most frequent culprits behind the suffering.

But that's not all – there's a critical link between ear conformation and the risk of ear disease. Lop-eared and half-lop rabbits, along with the elderly ones, were most vulnerable. The numbers don't lie: 25% of lop-eared rabbits had ear conditions reported by vets, while only 10% of erect-eared rabbits faced the same fate.

The consequences are heartbreaking. Rabbits experiencing ear pain showed a significant decline in their quality of life, as reported by their caring owners. Not only that, their ability to respond to sounds and even express joy through binky behavior was profoundly impacted.

It's high time we confront this issue head-on. By recognizing the signs and seeking proper treatment, we can enhance the well-being of rabbits nationwide. Breeding decisions also play a crucial role – avoiding rabbits with early signs or a family history of ear disease is a step towards a brighter future for these lovable companions.