Heat Stress (Heat Stroke)

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Rabbits are especially susceptible to heat stroke, particularly

those that are overweight and/or heavily furred.  Environmental

temperatures above 85F, high humidity (above 70%), inadequate

shade and ventilation, crowding and other forms of stress are

additional predisposing factors.



Signs of heat stroke include panting, salivation, ear

reddening, weakness, refusal to move, delirium, convulsions

and, eventually, death.  Heat stroke can be successfully

treated if recognized early.  Heat-stressed rabbits should either

be sprayed or bathed with cool water.  Another very effective way

to rapidly lower the body temperature involves applying cold

running water to the ear flaps.  Once these first-aid measures

are undertaken, a veterinarian should be contacted immediately.



Prevention of heat stroke involves providing adequate shade from

the sun (if the rabbit is housed outdoors) and ventilation (if

the rabbit is housed indoors or with many other rabbits).  A

continuous light mist or spray of water and/or a fan operating

over a container of ice and directed at a rabbit within its

enclosure can help lower the air temperature, whether the rabbit

is housed indoors or outdoors.