Tripod Bunny - Injured Rabbit

[Kirstygrant941]

Hi - I’m wondering if anyone can provide some support and words to help reassure me. I have a 2 year old rabbit who is currently going through amputation surgery on his front leg. We’ve exhausted all options, (splinting, surgery etc and now the leg is infected and needs removing). We’re seeing a specialist exotics vet who I completely trust.. I’m just so devastated. I’m ordering things that will help him to live a happy and comfortable life but can’t help but feel such pity and disappointment for him.. can anyone share their stories and can give any advice or tips? I appreciate it so much.

 

[Kirstygrant941]

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[Madelyn L.]

Something actually happened to me that I know is my fault and I was terrible for letting it happen. So, I have a large beanbag in my room, and it is stuffed with foam. Well my bunny took the chance to rip it open and get inside of it to where he wasn’t able to get out. He was trapped in there for a few hours while I was at volleyball. Long story short, we cut the beanbag open and I was happy he was still alive. Stupid decision by me, but thankfully patches is a tough bunny

 

[Madelyn L.]

Hi - I’m wondering if anyone can provide some support and words to help reassure me. I have a 2 year old rabbit who is currently going through amputation surgery on his front leg. We’ve exhausted all options, (splinting, surgery etc and now the leg is infected and needs removing). We’re seeing a specialist exotics vet who I completely trust.. I’m just so devastated. I’m ordering things that will help him to live a happy and comfortable life but can’t help but feel such pity and disappointment for him.. can anyone share their stories and can give any advice or tips? I appreciate it so much.

It is nice that you’ve tried everything. I’m sure your bun had appreciated the effort. What you are doing is good, just provide him a warm and loving home after the surgery so he can get used to three legs I hope everything goes well with the surgery

 

[BunBun71]

I hope every thing goes well on the surgery too,

 

[Kirstygrant941]

Thank you both - I’m anxiously waiting for the call to say everything is okay! Just hope he can live a good life afterwards.

 

[SirLawrence]

I don't have any experiences, but I do know that animals can do just fine without one limb. He may have a learning curve, where he's mildly awkward, but I think you'll find he'll adapt just fine, and will live a life wholly unaffected! It's relatively easy for them to go from 4 to 3... easier than it is for us to go from 2 to 1!! If you want the silver lining, it would probably be a bigger deal if it was a hind leg! He'll be hopping around like nothing happened in no time! At most, you may need to help him keep clean, since he will only have one groomer! Unless he has a bondmate, of course! That just means more pets! ☺

He will, of course, have one less paw to put on you to look adorable and beg for treats! That's the majority of what my Lawrence uses his front paws for!

 

[Kirstygrant941]

Thank you all so much for your kind words - he’s out of surgery now and is up drinking already. The vet has said he’s strong and seems to be adapting quite well already - such a relief. Who knew a rabbit could have you so worried!

 

[SirLawrence]

You're in the right place.

We all know how much a rabbit can have you so worried! I was in hysterics when Lawrence was being neutered. Welcome to our family of self-professed crazy rabbit people!

 

[nicolekline97]

I am sorry such a thing happened. You are kind to get all this done and have tried so hard. Many wouldn't have. The rabbit having a good home and good vet care is most important. Many animals have the "drive" to go on. Some might be depressed. I would think a bunny will do okay.

 

[Maki_p29]

Here is a good resource for disabled/amputee bunnies. I found this helpful when my previous bunny became disabled from headtilt. Rabbits can go on to live a good life. I think your bunny has a great chance to live a full life. I’m glad their surgery went well. Will post the website below:
https://www.specialbunny.org/disabilities/

 

[Mac189]

I have known a lot of animals whose quality of life greatly increased following an amputation, as the pain associated with a limb that needs to go is often very hard on them. Most quadrupeds adjust to being tripods very well. I'm so glad the little guy had a successful surgery! Also, on the bright side, fewer nails that need clipping!