Rabbit Bone Fracture

Bone fractures in rabbits are serious and painful injuries. Because rabbits have light, delicate skeletons, even a small fall, sudden fright, or rough handling can cause a fracture. Immediate veterinary attention is crucial to reduce pain and prevent life-threatening complications.

Rabbits have fragile bones that can break easily from falls or mishandling.
Fractures are often caused by trauma, accidents, or improper restraint.
Delayed treatment may lead to permanent disability or euthanasia.
Splinting, surgery, or supportive care may be required depending on severity.

Why Does My Rabbit Get Bone Fractures?

Rabbit bone fractures usually occur because of their unique anatomy—light bones paired with strong muscles. A sudden kick while being held, falling from a couch, or getting a leg caught in cage bars can cause breaks. Trauma from accidents, fights with other pets, or even bone weakness due to poor diet (low calcium or vitamin D) also increases the risk. Older rabbits or those with metabolic bone disease are especially vulnerable.

Types of Rabbit Bone Fracture

Simple Fracture

The bone breaks cleanly in one place without piercing the skin. This type can sometimes be stabilized with splints or casts.

Compound (Open) Fracture

The bone pierces through the skin, creating a high risk of infection. Requires urgent surgery and antibiotics.

Comminuted Fracture

The bone shatters into multiple pieces, usually from severe trauma. Surgery with pins, plates, or external fixators is often required.

Greenstick Fracture

More common in young rabbits with softer bones, where the bone bends and cracks but doesn’t fully break. Can often heal with immobilization.

Stress Fracture

Small cracks in the bone from repeated strain, poor nutrition, or underlying bone weakness. Harder to diagnose but causes ongoing lameness.

Pelvic Fracture

Breaks in the hip or pelvis region, often caused by severe trauma. Can affect mobility and bladder/bowel function.

Spinal Fracture

Fractures in the spine are very dangerous and may cause partial or complete paralysis. Sadly, these cases often have a poor prognosis.

Limb Fractures (Front or Hind Legs)

The most common fractures in rabbits. Depending on location, some can be stabilized, while others may need surgery.

Symptoms of Rabbit Bone Fracture

Sudden Lameness or Limping

Rabbits that normally hop around actively may suddenly refuse to put weight on one leg. You might notice them dragging the limb awkwardly or hopping unevenly. This is one of the clearest signs of a possible fracture.

Swelling or Abnormal Shape

A fractured area may become swollen within hours, or you may see the bone misaligned. Sometimes the limb looks bent at an unnatural angle, which is an urgent warning sign.

Painful Reaction to Touch

If you gently touch the injured leg, your rabbit may flinch, kick, grind its teeth, or even cry out softly. This strong reaction means the bone is very painful.

Paralysis or Weakness

If the spine is fractured, rabbits may lose control of their hind legs or show partial paralysis. They may drag the back half of their body or be unable to lift themselves.

Inability to Move Properly

Severe fractures can prevent rabbits from standing, hopping, or even turning themselves around. They may stay in one corner of the cage, unable to shift position.

Open Wounds with Bone Visible

In a compound fracture, the broken bone pierces through the skin. You might see bleeding or an exposed bone fragment. This is a medical emergency with very high infection risk.

Bruising and Bleeding

Sometimes internal bleeding shows up as purple or dark patches under the skin near the fracture site. This often happens after trauma, such as a fall or accident.

Grinding Teeth or Unusual Posture

Tooth grinding in rabbits is often a pain signal. You may also notice them sitting hunched, trying to avoid moving the injured area.

Prevention & Pet Care

Prevention of Health Risks

Handle rabbits gently and support their back legs during lifting. Avoid high surfaces and unsafe cages that increase the risk of falls or injuries.

Post-Treatment Monitoring

Watch the injured area for swelling, bleeding, or unusual limb position. Refusal to eat, dragging limbs, or signs of pain require immediate vet attention.

Dietary Support

Provide a diet rich in hay, with added leafy greens and safe calcium sources to support bone healing. Fresh water must always be available.

Limit Stress & Activity

Confine the rabbit to a small, padded space to prevent further injury. Avoid jumping, climbing, or running until cleared by the vet.

Long-Term Care

Follow up with X-rays or check-ups to ensure proper bone healing. Gentle physiotherapy may be recommended once the fracture stabilizes.