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My rabbit has deep wounds, no vet. How can I clean and care for them?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Small Animal | Rabbit | Female | unspayed

I have a rabbit who is severely injured, I assume from fighting with her roommate, and has two gashes, one very deep and uncomfortably close to her neck. We live out in the middle of nowhere and there's no vet we could take her to. They don't appear to be bleeding (anymore) but they look really bad... What should I do? What can I do? Is there any way to ease her pain or calm her down so I can clean the wounds? I'm so scared for her

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Dayna, DVM, CVA

Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist

Published on April 3rd, 2018

Oh gosh! I am so sorry to hear this! Rabbits should not be given any over the counter pain medication- it can be fatal to them. Do you have hair or beard clippers? #40 blade is best but a 10 will do the job. Put her in a dim room but enough light for you to see what you are doing. Clip/shave all the hair around the wounds. Use warm water to compress and clean the wounds. If you have the opportunity to have her evaluated by a veterinarian that would be ideal. Sometimes equine veterinarians will help with the rabbits too . Getting the fur off can really help decrease the chance of infection as well as allows you to see what is going on and if it is improving or getting worse. Keep her indoors so flies can’t get to the wound. Best of luck and I hope she improves soon! Thank you for using Pet Coach.

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    Answered By Penelope Graben, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on July 4th, 2018

    Hello! I would recommend keeping an eye on the wound and keeping it clean. A warm water washcloth to wipe the wound down one to two times per day is perfect for gentle cleaning. Don't apply any ointments or creams, as she will likely try to lick them off and rabbits have very sensitive stomachs. Be very gentle as rabbit skin is delicate. I would also recommend keeping her enclosure very clean while this heals. If you notice any swelling, drainage, redness, pain, or decrease in her appetite/energy, I would recommend taking her into a vet to have the wound assessed for infection and possible antibiotics. I hope this is helpful! Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach!

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