How do I know when to put my rabbit down?

[banana12]

How do I know when to euthanize my rabbit? I have two rabbits – brother and sister – for probably around 8 or 9 years. Both have had had several dental abcesses. We have paid thousands of dollars for surgery for both of them. They both have had several teeth removed. The male is in much worse condition and is likely in a lot pain, but they both seem to be in really good spirits. They eat and cuddle and play with each other. I cannot imagine having to put them down, but I need some advice on whether it is that time. What makes it even worse is that they’ve grown up together…I doubt one will live very much longer if the other one is put down. I realize it is a sad topic, but any advice is greatly appreciated. 

[Azerane]

Hi banana12, I’m sorry that your bunnies are unwell and that you are now faced with this tough decision. While no one can tell you when the time is right, there are some guidelines that can help you make a decision.

I’m afraid I can only remember two of the three points, but it’s the three “A’s”
Appetite, attitude, and wish I could remember the third Basically, are they happy to eat, eating well and enjoying their food. Attitude, are they happy and still enjoying life, still getting up to come over and see you etc.

I’m afraid I’m a bit tired at the moment to add much more, but hopefully some others will be along soon to help you out some more Once again, I’m sorry that you are faced with such a decision.

[sarahthegemini]

If they are happy which you said they are (“they appear to be in good spirits”) I don’t understand why euthanasia would be a consideration.

You say your male is “likely in a lot of pain” – why is this? If he was in pain, I doubt he would still have a healthy appetite but if he is, is there some sort of pain management plan you could try?

[jerseygirl]

Perhaps these can give some clarity? 

Quality of Life – HRS article

How to know when to euthanize a rabbit – howcast video

Im sorry you may be having to face this decision with one or both of your rabbits.  I know it can be such an uphill battle getting on top of abscesses, especially dental abscesses.  Is it now affecting bone? 

How is your relationship with their vet? Do you feel comfortable having an in depth, honest discussion about their health with the vet? Or has the vet already given a guarded prognosis?

What is making you feel that the male is in pain? I know, it is so hard with rabbits, they hide it well!  But you know them best, having had them so long. 

[jerseygirl]

Posted By sarahthegemini on 7/16/2017 7:21 AM

If they are happy which you said they are (“they appear to be in good spirits”) I don’t understand why euthanasia would be a consideration.

You say your male is “likely in a lot of pain” – why is this? If he was in pain, I doubt he would still have a healthy appetite but if he is, is there some sort of pain management plan you could try?

OP hasn’t really specified they have a healthy appetite.   Many unwell rabbits will still eat some. And that can make it all the more difficult to know what is best for them. Wish they could talk sometimes. 

I do agree about reviewing pain management. It may improve QOL if you feel he is uncomfortable, banana12. 

[sarahthegemini]

Posted By jerseygirl on 7/16/2017 8:37 AM

Posted By sarahthegemini on 7/16/2017 7:21 AM

If they are happy which you said they are (“they appear to be in good spirits”) I don’t understand why euthanasia would be a consideration.

You say your male is “likely in a lot of pain” – why is this? If he was in pain, I doubt he would still have a healthy appetite but if he is, is there some sort of pain management plan you could try?

OP hasn’t really specified they have a healthy appetite.   Many unwell rabbits will still eat some. And that can make it all the more difficult to know what is best for them. Wish they could talk sometimes. 

I do agree about reviewing pain management. It may improve QOL if you feel he is uncomfortable, banana12. 

You’re right, I misread Still, if they play and eat and cuddle it doesn’t sound like he is too uncomfortable. Though I’m basing that entirely on how Buttercup behaves when she’s unwell. 

[jerseygirl]

I agree, and I definitely hope that is the case!
It can be many moments of everything being pretty good then you witnessing a moment where they struggle and you’re all up in arms again about what to do.
You probably remember that rollercoaster when Buttercup had those stasis episodes. I do from when Jersey had them and i questioned all my decisions.

[vanessa]

Appetite, attitude and affection. Those r the 3 “a”s. 🙁

[vanessa]

Ii use that with Lancelot. Since he is physically limited, his “attitude” is grooming himself, pushing up on my hand when I pet his head, and playing with his blankets, wicker ball, and food. He throws them into the water bowl… His “affection”, is grooming me and his stuffy. He likes to lick me while I pet him. And appetite – is showing enthusiasm for his food. Not just ingesting food. When one of those “a”s goes away, I start counting good vs bad days. I don’t want the bad to outnumber the good. Its very subjective. Only u know how your rabbit is feeling and whether he has a chance to recover from a particular bad set of days. QOL is also something that only u can judge for your rabbit. He enjoys cuddling his pal? That’s part of QOL. I told my vet that I want Lancelot on metacam unroll I feel it is time to put him down. Do watch his pain indications. For Lancelot, QOL is having soft comfy blankets, a donut support, a dry butt, his stuffy, attention from me, nice smelling veggies, hay cookies, and a chin rest. Your bunny will have different QOL values.

[vanessa]

Oh and grooming… Since Lancelot can’t reach most of his body, I brush him and wipe him down with a warm wet rag, and wipe his eyes daily. Also part of his QOL.

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