Firstly, it’s great to hear that aside from coccidia, Jett is of good health. Also, it’s ALWAYS great when you have an exotic vet who you feel comfortable with.
Wick’s first vet appointment was at around 8-9wo and he’s been on medication ever since. He’s received at least two syringes of some antibiotic medication from me per day for the past 3 months, and will continue to do so for another month, most likely. I’m going under the assumption the medication is oral-fed syringe, not injections (though Wick gets injections too).
Right off the bat, whenever Wick successfully takes the medicine, I put the syringe down and immediately pet and cuddle him. I use the same positioning and method of holding him every time, so he knows when it’s coming. He use to kind of freeze up when he’d realize it, but now I think he knows afterwards. he’s gonna get pet like crazy, so he takes it like a champ and basks in the pet session afterwards.
In terms of positioning, Wick is a very small rabbit. I sit, knees on the floor, bottom on my heels, and plop Wick in front of me so his bottom is in the crevice where my legs meet (preventing him from backing up). I’m left-handed, so I use my right thumb and pointer finger and gently wrap them around his neck, behind his jaw so he can jerk his head back much. Definitely do not pinch or choke your rabbit. I pet him, building up to the presentation of the syringe and approach from the side. He knows he needs to eat it, so Wick will start sporadically licking then flinch away. Lick, flinch away. It takes a bit of focus, but I have to find a window where he’s licking long enough so I don’t depress the syringe plunger when he jerks away, spraying the medication on his face or something. Once he gets it in successfully (I can tell because he’ll start licking a lot in his mouth), I say good boy over and over and pet him a lot until he relaxes into a nice bunny loaf. Then all is well!
I was also worried about ruining my bond with him so early on because I’d be giving him bitter, gross medication, but Wick is very happy afterwards so I think as long as you reinforce his tolerance of the medication positively, Jett will still love ya!
Unless your vet tells you otherwise, make the dosing schedule regular or else it won’t be as effective!
The answers provided in this discussion are for general guideline purposes only. The information is not intended to diagnose or treat your pet. Seek the advice of your veterinarian or a qualified behaviorist.