Solitary rabbits and long-haired breeds such as Angoras may find it impossible to keep their coat well groomed, especially if they have an additional underlying problem. Obese female rabbits have large perineal folds that accumulate debris and become infected and inflamed if the rabbit is unable to lick and clean them. Pododermatitis is a painful condition which is likely to occur in immobile caged rabbits kept on dirty, wet bedding. Fly-strike can be the consequence of the inability to groom properly or of faecal material becoming caked around the anus. Both pododermatitis and fly-strike are often undetected until the condition is advanced.
Incorrect nutrition causes additional health problems for the pet rabbit confined to a hutch.
Our modern day ethos of convenience foods has extended to feeding pets as well as ourselves. In the past, rabbits were fed on kitchen and garden waste which included fibrous vegetable matter. Grass and weeds were picked daily. Nowadays, most owners go to the pet shop and ask for rabbit food or buy it at the supermarket. Owners are encouraged to buy cereal-based foods, sweetened treats and artificial chews in the belief that these items are the best for their pet.