Hello, I'm seeking advice other rabbit owners may have about helping my rabbit, Annalise, with advanced arthritis. She's turning 10 this year and her leg stiffness has progressed rapidly, to the point I can tell her range of motion exercises are discomforting her greatly and she rarely hops, often dragging her back legs behind her. Annalise has Meloxidyl prescribed by her vet and I give her regular check ups to attempt to keep her bottom clean.
Her energy is still high, she actively chews and digs at her toys, comes out for food, and is eager for pets as long as it isn't the usual time of day I attempt to give her a massage or stretches. As long as she has vim we want to support her and give her the best quality of life we can. So I'm looking for what others recommend. She's about 6-7lbs, was closer to 7 but I fear she's lost some muscle mass so now she's closer to 6.
What kind of mobility aids do you recommend for rabbits?
How do we help her adjust to one? How long did it take your rabbit to get used to it?
How do they affect their movement and litter usage? We have a low clearance box right now, but I imagine we could make her a custom ramp?
How long should a rabbit be in one? How long should they be out of the aid?
Do I need to take into any considerations of her bond mate messing with the harness or device?
Are there any best practices or other details I should know?
by HoneyLapin