My bunny is dragging its back legs. How do I know if it's paralyzed?

Question

How can i by myself identify that my bunny has got paralysis ..! As it is not able to use his back legs and hes dragging ... Pet's info: Small Animal | Rabbit | Male

Dr. Davis · Accepted Answer

Rabbits have sensitive backs and if they thrash around and kick strongly with their rear legs they can damage their spinal cord and become paralyzed. You can check to see if he still has pain sensation. Try squeezing a rear toe or paw to see if Nicky can feel it. If he turns around he then has deep pain sensation, if not he is paralyzed. He may pull back the leg which is a reflex, that isn't the same as his brain feeling the pain in the foot and looking around or crying out. If he's paralyzed he may also loose control of his urination and defecation so instead of going to the bathroom in his usual place, he may become soiled with urine and feces. To be sure about his condition a veterinary exam is recommended. If there is no improvement in the use of his legs in a few days then he probably is permanently paralyzed. This is very sad. If he isn't able to move or control his urination or defecation euthanasia may be the humane thing to do. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach to get answers to your veterinary questions.

My bunny is dragging its back legs. How do I know if it's paralyzed?

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