As a popular choice of pet, rabbits are usually bought in the hope that they will provide the same level of companionship as a dog or a cat. In the right conditions this is certainly possible, however many rabbits can develop unforseen problems like nervousness, aggression, inappropriate toileting, marking behaviour and destructive behaviour. The possible causes of these problems are many and varied and thus an accurate diagnosis needs to be established to enable an appropriate treatment programme to be developed.

The domestication of the rabbit has been quite recent and its behavioural repertoire corresponds closely to that of the wild species. The lack of understanding of the rabbit’s behaviour and the requirements for safety (being such a prey species) can lead to provision of an inadequate environment and inappropriate care by owners.

This in turn can result in the development of behaviour problems. In order to resolve a behavioural problems, the underlying causal factors need to be ascertained. These can include illness, pain, frustration, fear, learned behaviour, resource related issues, sexually related behaviours and stress relating to an inadequate environment.
 

 
To ensure that there is no underlying medical condition causing your rabbit’s behaviour all consultations are seen on veterinary referral. You can download and print the referral form and once your vet has agreed and filled it in, it should be given to the behaviour counsellor at the consultation, or posted with the questionnaire and video for a telephone consultation.

Rabbit Behaviour Clinics are held in London, Southampton and Ipswich. For owners that do not have access to one of these clinics, telephone consultations are available.
 

496 Hornsey Road, London, N19 4EF

To avoid delays please send all information and video footage by recorded delivery to the above address. You will be contacted immediately to organise a suitable time for the consultation, for which you will need to allow approximately 90 minutes.