nutritional needs due to their tiny size and fast metabolism. A well-balanced diet is crucial to maintaining their health, energy levels, and coat quality.

1. Nutritional Requirements for Yorkies

Yorkies need:

  High-quality protein (chicken, turkey, fish, lamb) for muscle maintenance.

  Healthy fats (omega-3 & omega-6) for skin and coat health.

  Digestible carbohydrates (sweet potatoes, brown rice) for energy.

  Vitamins & minerals (calcium, phosphorus, zinc) for bone and immune health.

  Small kibble size (for their tiny mouths).

Daily Caloric Needs:

Puppies: ~55 kcal per pound of body weight

Adults: ~40 kcal per pound of body weight

Seniors (7+ years): ~35 kcal per pound of body weight

(Example: A 4-pound adult Yorkie needs ~160 kcal/day.)

2.Best Food Options for Yorkies

A. Commercial Dog Food

Choose small-breed formulas with:

  High protein (25-30%)

  Moderate fat (12-18%)

 No fillers (corn, soy, artificial preservatives)

Recommended Brands:

Royal Canin Yorkshire Terrier

Hill’s Science Diet Small Paws

Blue Buffalo Small Breed

Wellness Complete Health Small Breed

B. Homemade & Raw Diets

If preparing homemade meals:

  Lean meats (chicken, turkey, beef)

  Cooked veggies (carrots, peas, spinach)

  Healthy grains (quinoa, oatmeal)

  Fish oil or flaxseed (for coat health)

  Avoid toxic foods (onions, garlic, grapes, chocolate, xylitol).

C. Treats & Snacks

Small, soft treats for training

Dental chews for oral health

Fruits (blueberries, apple slices) in moderation

3. Feeding Schedule

Yorkies are prone to low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), especially puppies, so frequent small meals are best.

Age Meals Per Day Portion Size

Puppy (8-12 weeks) 4-5 meals ¼ - ½ cup total

Puppy (3-6 months) 3-4 meals ½ - ¾ cup total

Adult (1-7 years) 2-3 meals ½ - 1 cup total

Senior (7+ years) 2-3 meals Adjust for activity

(Always check food packaging for exact portion sizes.)

4. Common Dietary Issues in Yorkies

Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) – Feed small, frequent meals.

Dental problems – Use kibble or dental treats to reduce plaque.

Food allergies – Watch for itching, ear infections (common allergens: beef, dairy, wheat).

Obesity – Avoid overfeeding; Yorkies gain weight easily.

5. Transitioning to a New Diet

Switch foods gradually over 7-10 days to avoid stomach upset:

Days 1-2: 25% new food + 75% old food

Days 3-4: 50% new + 50% old

Days 5-7: 75% new + 25% old

Days 8-10: 100% new food

Final Tips

  Always provide fresh water.

  Avoid table scraps (can cause obesity & pancreatitis).

  Consult a vet before major diet changes.

How much should I feed my dog? - Dog Breeding series = 5

  How much should I feed my dog?  

Many people will give different types of answers based on their experience with their dogs.  However, the scientific facts related to the feeding aspects in the case of dogs need to be given emphasis during the feeding activities maintained in the case of dogs.

Usually,

the puppies should not be separated before they are eight weeks old. However, sometimes the orphaned puppies may exist. Usually, about five percent of the body weight may be taken as the criterion for the quantity of food to be given to the puppies.  However, the amount that is consumed by the dog varies with size of the dog.  

However, one can have a thumb rule of feeding the puppy goes until you see visible fullness of the abdomen to a moderate degree. If you are going on feeding the animal without giving emphasis to the animal’s stomach appearance, then the puppy may experience some kinds of digestive upsets and diarrhea may occur in them.

This may cause many inconveniences to the owner as well as the puppy.  Unlike adult dogs, the puppies need to be fed with restricted amounts of food but in more frequencies. However, once the age advances, the amount may be increased to some extent but the frequency of feeding is often decreased in many occasions. 

A dog on a raw diet may consume only two to four percent of their body weight.  Just observe closely the feeding pattern of the dog and the body condition of the animal. If the dog becomes obese, just reduce the quantity of food and if the dog becomes thin, then have an increase in the feeding items.  

As mentioned earlier, puppies and adolescent dogs eat more than the adult dogs.  Likewise, the geriatric dog eats less than the adult dog due to the reduced movements of the dog. However, remember to restrict the amounts of protein during the feeding of the diet to the aged dogs.

#DogBreedingSeries #HomemadeDogFood #DogFoodAllergies #DIYDogDiets #HypoallergenicDogFood #DogNutrition #HealthyDogRecipes #DogHealthTips #NaturalDogFood #DogBreedingCare #AllergyFriendlyDogs #GrainFreeDogFood #RawDogFood #DogTreats #BalancedDogDiet

how to Home made diets and food allergies - Dog Breeding series = 4

 Homemade diets are important in dog feeding. Many a times, the commercial diets consist of food items that have artificial coloring agents and flavoring agents that are harmful to the dog's body. Home-made food items have a guarantee of freshness in the preparation, unlike ready-made commercial items.

The preservatives added in commercial food items may not be suitable ones to dogs from a health point of view.  Even in the case of renal diseases in dogs, homemade diets may be made with ground beef, slices of bread, calcium carbonate, boiled eggs, etc. 

purpose is to have a restricted protein supply in the food items that are prepared.  This should be carried out with homemade diets prepared exclusively for dogs suffering from renal diseases. Water is added in sufficient quantities to help the proper metabolism in the digestion-impaired renal cases. 

The dog may have allergic symptoms like severe itching, which may not get corrected by different kinds of medications employed over a period of time.  Such cases may get easily treated once the dog food is changed from commercial-type of food to homemade food items.

Often, homemade food items are prepared using freezing procedures to kill the germs or by adding grape seed extracts to provide sufficient antioxidants to the homemade food items.  Food-grade vinegar is also added in many times to the meat pieces prepared in a fresh manner.  All these can be enriched with vitamin supplements that are available in fruit essences, fish oil etc. 

Cranberry juice, bananas, fish and meat are prepared in a quality manner and no preservatives are added during the preparation of these kinds of food items and the dog becomes more active after the consumption of such food items.

 ****  Food allergies

Food allergies are something that is difficult to identify unless one is well aware of the baseline information with regard to this type of allergy. The main symptoms of food allergies in dogs include facial itching, limb chewing, belly itching, recurrent ear infections or skin infections. 

Since dogs consume lot of prepared food materials including various kinds of proteins, fillers, coloring agents and more; in commercial food materials, the incidences of food allergies are more than one can imagine. Allergic reactions mostly involve the skin or the gastrointestinal tract. 

If you come across your dog itching after the provision of specific food materials, then suspect a food allergy in this animal. However, conditions like fungal infections need to be ruled out in general before the conclusion of itching as a sign of food allergy.

There are many recorded incidences of allergies of dogs to corn or to wheat. However, food allergies vary from dog to dog.  Read the labels clearly before feeding your dogs with pet food materials, in such occasions.  Too much-colored food materials may be avoided since they may cause allergies to your dog.

Food allergies are often linked to the hyperactive behavior noticed in dogs.  Added colors, preservatives, and high-fat diet might cause such food allergies in the dogs and hence, one has to be careful in providing new kinds of diets to their dogs and closely monitor the dog for any signs of allergy.   

There are many occasions that food allergies might be diagnosed in the dogs but the dog may have other problems like pancreatitis. To rule out food allergies, observing your dogs every time you feed them, looking for reasons to link the signs of dog with food given, specific signs encountered, differential diagnosis etc. are the important features to be given emphasis. 

• Homemade dog food

• Dog food allergies

• DIY dog diets

• Hypoallergenic dog food

• Dog breeding nutrition

• Natural dog food recipes

• Allergy-friendly dog meals

• Balanced dog diets

• Dog health and nutrition

• Grain-free dog food

• Protein sources for dogs

• Dog food intolerance

• Healthy dog treats

• Raw dog food recipes

• Dog breeding care tips

#DogBreedingSeries #HomemadeDogFood #DogFoodAllergies #DIYDogDiets #HypoallergenicDogFood #DogNutrition #HealthyDogRecipes #DogHealthTips #NaturalDogFood #DogBreedingCare #AllergyFriendlyDogs #GrainFreeDogFood #RawDogFood #DogTreats #BalancedDogDiet

The Cost of Dog Food: A Comprehensive Guide for Dog Owners - Dog Breeding series = 3

 When it comes to feeding your dog, the cost of dog food is a crucial factor to consider. However, it’s not just about the price-quality, nutritional value, and your dog’s specific needs play an equally important role. This guide explores the cost of dog food, the differences between dry and canned options, and how to make the best choice for your furry friend.

Understanding the Cost of Dog Food

The cost of dog food varies depending on the type, quality, and preparation methods. While budget is a key consideration, many dog owners prioritize their pet’s health and well-being over cost. Dogs provide companionship, protection, and emotional support, making their care a top priority for most owners.

When selecting dog food, it’s essential to focus on quality ingredients that meet your dog’s nutritional needs. National nutrient academies provide guidelines on recommended nutrient contents, which can help you make informed decisions. While some may opt for cheaper options, compromising on quality can negatively impact your dog’s health.

Commercial Dog Food: Dry vs. Canned

Commercial dog food comes in two main forms: dry and canned. Each has its pros and cons, and understanding these can help you choose the best option for your dog.

Dry Dog Food

Cost-Effective: Dry food is generally more affordable than canned food.

Nutrient-Dense: It contains up to 90% nutrients, making it a highly efficient option.

Convenient: Dry food has a longer shelf life and is easier to store.

Popular Ingredients: Many dry foods are soybean, rice, or corn-based. Enriched dry foods are particularly beneficial as they contain added vitamins and minerals.

Canned Dog Food

Higher Moisture Content: Canned food contains 70-80% moisture, which can be more appealing to dogs.

Palatability: Dogs often prefer canned food due to its texture and flavor.

Lower Nutrient Density: Canned food typically has fewer nutrients per serving, so dogs may need to eat more to meet their nutritional needs.

Higher Cost: Canned food is generally more expensive than dry food.

Choosing the Right Food for Your Dog

The type of food you choose should depend on your dog’s size, age, and dietary requirements. For example:

Larger Dogs: Dogs weighing over 30 pounds may benefit from semi-moist or dry food to satisfy their caloric needs without overfeeding.

Smaller Dogs: Smaller breeds can thrive on moist or canned food, as their caloric requirements are lower.

It’s also important to monitor your dog for food allergies, especially when introducing new foods. Cheaper options may not always be the best choice if they compromise on quality or trigger allergic reactions.

Balancing Cost and Quality

While cost is a significant factor, it shouldn’t be the sole determinant when choosing dog food. High-quality food may come at a higher price, but it can lead to better health outcomes and fewer vet visits in the long run. Many dog food brands now include cost information on their labels, making it easier for owners to compare options and make informed decisions.

Final Thoughts

Feeding your dog a balanced diet is essential for their overall health and happiness. Whether you choose dry or canned food, prioritize quality ingredients and proper nutrient supplementation. By understanding the cost and benefits of different dog food options, you can make the best choice for your beloved pet.

Dog Nutrition Series - The Importance of Vitamin and Mineral Supplements for Dogs =2

 Dog Nutrition Series - The Importance of Vitamin and Mineral Supplements for Dogs

***   Vitamin and mineral supplements

Vitamin and mineral supplements are the most important components in any dog’s feeding. If there is a balance in the vitamin and mineral supplements, then the animal will have a healthy life and hence, the immunity is not compromised in an unwanted way.  This simply means that there the dog will be more disease-resistant to various diseases. 

Pet owners should know that vitamins A, D, E, and K are fat-soluble vitamins and others are water-soluble vitamins.  Vitamins like thiamine, pyridoxine, and cyanocobalamin are important for the functions of the nervous system.  Deficiency of vitamin A leads to night blindness and skin lesions and deficiency of vitamin D leads to the softening and weakening of the bones. 

These problems are many a time encountered by dog owners. Among these, vitamin A toxicities may occur if you feed them in excessive amounts, like vitamin D. Hence, give emphasis on this while you are using these vitamins in the dogs. Cod liver oil from selected fishes has more vitamin A in them and are universally good feed for dogs.  

All dogs may not need supplements of minerals or vitamins to live well for the moment, but it is important for their future.  If they become sick or aged or very young without proper feeding, supplementations are required for the upkeep of their health status in them.  However, one has to follow the instructions of the veterinarian in this regard.    

If the dogs are fed fish in frozen conditions, then they may be suffering constantly from vitamin B1 deficiency and hence, such dogs need to be given specifically B1. Careless supplementations of minerals may lead to diseases and hence, veterinarians always need to be consulted on the supplementation of minerals or vitamins.  

Minerals like calcium, magnesium, zinc, manganese, iron, copper etc. are given more emphasis in addition to sodium and potassium. Zinc is related to skin health and potassium is related to muscle health and calcium with phosphorus is related to bone health. 

However, if you feed the dog chicken, mutton or beef along with required vegetables, artificial supplementation of mineral or vitamin tablets may be highly reduced but supplements need to be thought of when you are not able to maintain a balanced nutrition as this happens with most of the dogs, due to multifaceted causes.  

***   Boredom and variety

Boredom and variety are always interconnected in the case of dog misbehaving. Yes. This is true. Many times, boredom can be managed with a variety of materials that will distract the animals to a greater extent.  Hence, the dog may not do the abnormal or unwanted activity arising out of the boredom experienced by it. 

Boredom-experienced dogs may have different types of behavioral patterns.  For example, some dogs will be seen barking continuously and some may be engaged always in some digging activities. 

There are many ways to get your dog out of its boredom activities. Many toys are available that simulate ducks, dogs, rodents, etc. 

These may be kept inside the crate and in particular, puppies love these items.  A buster cube with multiple treats may be placed in the dog’s shelter and the animal soon understands on how to roll the buster cube to get the treats it prefers. A Buster Cube is an ingenious toy used for simulating and activating your dog during play and feed time.  Instead of placing the food monotonously in one place, change the place of feeding suddenly. 

Such actions will be helpful for removing the boredom-like activity in your dog. Activities pertaining to boredom need to be redefined well by the dog owners.  This will help them to a greater extent to drive away the unwanted behavior patterns in their pet dogs. 

For example, some dogs may often have destructive biting characteristics and will be seen biting chairs, clothes, mats, and everything that can be seen. After ruling out the teething problem if it is a puppy, provide it with some large-sized balls, mineral mixture-based bone materials, etc. Such a variety of materials helps to reduce boredom-related activities. 

Dog Nutrition Series - What precautions should be taken when feeding dogs =1

 Understanding the ingredients of your dog's food items is a must for dog lovers or dog owners.  Whenever you feed the dog with different kinds of food items, you should always read the label and understand the contents about the dog feed types that are being used in such commercial preparations. You should understand the ingredients while buying food for your dog and also know what to look for.

Feed items include dry and fresh food.  The fresh dog food that is prepared in homes generally consists of ingredients like freshly cut chicken pieces in addition to cranberry juices, blue-green algae, etc. 

If you come across any different kinds of preservatives and if the dog develops all of a sudden signs pertaining to the food allergy, suspect the unwanted ingredient in the feed items given. Similarly, understand about the moisture status. If the food item has more moisture, then the dog may prefer this as well. 

Beet pulp, pasta, Soy bean oil, wheat middlings, calcium carbonate, magnesium oxide, copper sulfate, iron sulfate, zinc oxide, choline chloride, etc. are often the ingredients in case of vegetarian-based diet items offered to pet animals like dogs. 

Raw egg, chicken, beef, mutton, fish, quail, etc. are often the preferred ingredients in the case of dog diets that are prepared on the basis of non-vegetarian items. Taurine is one of the essential ingredients for the dog’s nutrition.  Likewise, in the case of dogs fed with frozen fish items, the vitamin called thiamine needs to be supplemented as an ingredient. 

Many premium types of dog food preparations contain essential fatty acids, carbohydrates with adequate fiber contents, and vitamins like A, D, E, and B complex vitamins.

Furthermore, minerals like zinc is an essential ingredients for skin health status and calcium is an essential ingredient for bone growth, the tonicity of muscles.  They should be enriched in these food items. However, the cost of those food preparations are comparatively more expensive than the food preparations with general ingredients.  Though it may be better for your dog's health.

***  Dogs need different diets at different ages

Dogs need different diets at different ages. Yes. This is true. For example, the puppy needs milk as the major food item while an adult dog may need beef or chicken in addition to the boiled egg and milk. So depending on the age factor, the diet schedule varies in reality for the dogs like any other species. 

Puppies need greater amounts of protein, fat, and carbohydrates than adult dogs.  Furthermore, puppies need more frequent feeding schedules in a day, unlike an adult dog. The movement-based requirements of diet are more in the case of puppies since they are often more active than adult dogs. 

Elder dogs need restricted protein but the protein needs to be easily digestible and easily assimilated in the body.  The diet schedule should have an ample supply of water for them. Feeding aged dogs too much protein may finally lead to over burden to the renal structures and ultimately, the dog may end up damaging filters in the kidney.

This is true especially when the immune system of these dogs is compromised due to many factors.  Similarly, the elderly dogs need less food only because the movements of the adult dogs are highly restricted and hence, they have to spend a limited of energy. 

Female dogs in the pregnancy stage need not be fed a full stomach since it may cause some discomfort to the animal. However, pregnant animals and nursing animals need special types of food items that deliver a balanced type of nutrition with proper supplementation of vitamins and minerals. 

The nursing animal with puppies needs to be fed with enough amounts of calcium and hence, there will not be any calcium-based deficiency and the bones of the puppies will be strong without any curving.

Turkeys Circling A Dead Cat Are Probably Wary / walk in a circle

Turkeys Circling A Dead Cat Are Probably Wary

/ walk in a circle

More than 15 turkeys walk in a circle  not running or distressed, but walking with intention  around a dead cat in the middle of the road.

Boston Magazine called "Massachusetts' foremost turkey expert," who said it was possible that the birds were trailing behind one animal who set out to investigate the corpse, and then wound up  follow-the-leader style  in a perfect circle.

Biologist Alan Krakauer, an expert on the behavioral ecology of birds, offers an explanation that ascribes a little more intention to the birds. He tells NPR it's "most likely  predator inspection behavior."

He explains that turkeys, when faced with an animal that might eat them, sometimes follow the risky route of actually approaching the predator. It can help signal to other turkeys in the area that there's a threat, or help the turkeys evaluate how big of a danger the predator is.

"Or it could let the predator know the prey are aware of its presence, which might encourage the predator to move elsewhere to seek an easier meal, he says a lot like a group of small songbirds mobbing a hawk or owl they have discovered."

Or, you know, it could backfire  if the predator is a little more  conscious than the cat in the video.

Krakauerhe says

"During my studies of wild turkeys I watched a coyote trot through a group of turkeys  the turkeys gave it some space but acted alert in a similar manner to this video. In that instance the coyote kept walking and the turkeys went back to their business.

"However, in this video, the dead cat 'predator' doesn't get up to leave, and the turkeys appear to be kind of stuck in their pattern of behavior. Maybe they are waiting to see if the cat wakes up?

That is, waiting to see if the dead rise, instead of ritually working to raise the dead.

Either way, we can all agree it would be alarming for turkeys and humans alike if that cat sprang up.

Types of Horse Board

Types of Horse Board

Depending on what you and your horse need, there are different types of boarding arrangements available. Here's a quick overview of the types of board offered at many boarding stables.

all2app

Subscribe to channel on YouTube Games

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCGSZjhG21iChFtCHpMcaZ7g

Website: http://free777games.blogspot.com.eg/ 

Full Board

Full board will include all the necessities for your horse plus a stall with full turn-out. With full board you won't have to visit your horse every day. If you have a busy schedule and can afford to have someone else care for your horse full time, this is the best arrangement. The exact services offered will be outlined in your boarding contract.

Full board may include lessons, arena, and equipment use. You may pay extra for specialized feeds or supplements, farrier and veterinarian calls and treatments, blanketing, and other extras. Your boarding contract should outline all services provided and what you will have to pay extra for. It's easy for horses to become neglected by owners who think they are paying top dollar for the best care. Even though your horse should be well cared for, it is wise to check on your horse frequently to be sure it is in good condition.

Part-Board

If you part-board a horse you will not own the horse but will be paying a portion of the board in exchange for its use. This is an option if you can't afford to buy and keep your own horse. You may be paying the owner of the horse or the stable owner. You'll probably have use of the horse for certain times or a specific number of hours per week. Depending on the agreement with the owner, you may or may not use your own equipment. You also may or may not be responsible for care such as farrier and veterinarian services. All the details should be outlined in a contract. You may also be able to use the horse for lessons or competing. That will be specified in your contract.

If you wish to offer your horse for part-board, expect to pay less for your board but give up time you will spend with your horse. You'll want to find someone you trust and whose riding and handling skills are similar to your own.

Pasture Board

Pasture board can be very economical. Your horse will live outdoors all year round with feed, water and a run-in shelter. If your horse needs blanketing in cold weather you may pay extra for the owner/manager to take the blanket on or off depending on the weather. Your horse may not get individual daily attention, but the stable staff will be keeping an eye on it. This can be a good situation for someone who rides occasionally, a horse who dislikes being stabled, or for some reason, such as COPD, should not be stabled for long periods of time.

Self-care Board

With self-care board, you will be provided with the facilities and you will have to do the rest. You will have to bring in your own feed and bedding. Feeding, turn-out, and mucking out will be your responsibility. You will have to arrange for and be there when vets or farriers are needed. This situation can work well if a group of people can work together or if you live very close to the stable. The downside is that, like having horses in your backyard, you will have to make sure they are cared for every day. Self-care boarding tends to go very well if everyone is cooperative, or it can turn complicated.  Contracts with exact expectations of what is required are the best protection for everyone, as is good communication.

Other Arrangements

Some stables may offer you a reduced rate if you work mucking out or provide other services to the stable. Perhaps your horse can be used for lessons or trail rides. If you make any agreements like this, make sure they are outlined in the boarding contract. If you can't hold up your end of the agreement, be prepared to pay the full price for the board. Keep track of what work you do and when so that the stable owner/manager can be assured that they are receiving fair value for the reduced board.

Whatever your boarding arrangement, your horse's welfare is still your responsibility. Don't assume that you can ignore your horse for long periods of time or that it is the stable owner's problem if the horse becomes sick or needs special attention. And always, pay your board bill on time. In some places the proceedings to claim horses in lieu of board can take place if the board is as little as two weeks late.

How do I get a free horse?

How do I get a free horse?

all2app

Subscribe to channel on YouTube Games

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCGSZjhG21iChFtCHpMcaZ7g

Website: http://free777games.blogspot.com.eg/ 

 How do I get a free horse? This is a question people who want a horse, but can't afford the initial expense often ask. There are ways of getting a horse for free. Sometimes, a college student will be glad to give their horse to someone for the duration of their studies, exchanging the use of the horse for care. People with older horses may be glad to give a horse to someone who will ride it lightly and give it a good semi-retirement home. Horse rescues might re-home some horses for free, although they often require payment to help cover their costs. And if you live near a racetrack, you might be able to get a free Thoroughbred whose racing career is over. Any of these things can make you the owner of a free horse.

The Cost of the Horse is Only The Beginning

But, the initial cost of a horse is only the beginning. Focusing just on the cost of buying a horse is shortsighted. Horse ownership is an expensive endeavor even if you only plan to pleasure ride in the backyard.

Something you should also consider is that free horses are often free for a reason. Horses that are untrained, unsound, have ongoing health issues or behavioral problems are the ones most often offered for free. Of course, there is always an exception to the rule, and if you look hard and long enough, you might score the perfect horse without spending a nickel. However, regardless of whether you find the perfect horse, or are willing to compromise with a not-so-perfect horse, you will still need to budget for your horse's needs and be able to afford to give it the best care over the long term.

What Does it Cost to Care For a Horse?

The cost for off-hour calls can be very expensive and something like colic surgery can cost thousands. These costs don't cover your equipment: buckets, halters, saddles and the other things it takes to care for and enjoy your horse.

Basic Minimum Costs

However, here is a breakdown of the basic minimum costs assuming you are keeping your horse or pony on your own property. These costs do not reflect the value of the property, land taxes, insurance, or property maintenance, including barns and fences. These costs vary depending on the area. The closer you are to an urban area such as New York, Toronto or places like Kentucky or Florida that are horse meccas, the more expensive horse ownership can become. Boarding your horse will entail other costs covered in Horse Boarding FAQs. You may be able to cut costs by shopping for the cheapest good-quality hay and taking it off of the field yourself, learning to trim your horse's hooves yourself, and buying your own vaccinations (not recommended).

------------------------

-One half bale of hay $2.00 per day

Six month supply of loose mineral supplement $30.00 or 0.17 per day

Salt block $14.00 or $0.04 per day

Two two cup servings of inexpensive concentrate per day $1.00

Farrier every six week at $35 per trim or $0.83 day

Dewormer every 3 months $0.20 per day

Dentistry once a year at $125 or $0.35 per day

Annual basic core vaccinations of rabies, tetanus, equine influenza, and other routine vaccines at $95.00 or $0.27 per day

What to feed your rabbit

What to feed your rabbit

Hay or grass should be the basis of your rabbit’s diet, and a few fresh vegetables should be offered as well. Remember cereal-based diets (the muesli-type) are high in sugar and low in minerals, and therefore should not be given. Small quantities of high-fibre pellets are a better choice.

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCITFAl_3HpetPJUhc8GqoEw

There are also complete foods commercially available but hay should still make up to three-quarters of the rabbit’s diet. They need a daily variety of fresh vegetables and fruit, washed thoroughly before feeding. Think natural – good foods are carrots, spinach, watercress, broccoli, celery, apples and dandelion leaves. Never give rabbits grass cuttings as this will cause serious health problems. Dried ready grass is available from pet shops, and this is acceptable. Fresh water must always be available and changed daily. Make sure, if using a water bottle, that it is working properly.

Rabbit care

A healthy rabbit is alert and lively. Check your rabbit every day without fail and look out for any changes in appearance or behaviour. Symptoms of poor health include scaly patches inside the ears, a discharge from the eyes or nose, swellings or diarrhoea. Your rabbit’s back and front teeth must be checked regularly especially if they are beginning to lose weight for no apparent reason. Dental problems are common in rabbits.

All rabbits should be regularly vaccinated against the potentially fatal diseases, myxomatosis and viral haemorrhagic disease (VHD). Rabbit vaccinations are an essential part of keeping your pet healthy. Check with your vet who will decide how often this needs to be done. It is a good idea to have rabbits neutered as this lessens the risk of disease and behavioural problems. Neutered rabbits can also be easier to house train.

Remember that rabbits are at risk from fly strike if not regularly checked during the hot weather so care must be taken to ensure your rabbits’ bottoms are kept clean.

Daily grooming is essential for long-furred varieties. Short-coated rabbits should be groomed on a weekly basis, as this will reinforce the human/animal bond. If you are at all worried about any aspect of your rabbit’s health, always seek veterinary advice.

Parasites that affect rabbits

Parasites that affect rabbits

There are several parasites that may affect rabbits, but the most significant one is E. cuniculi, a microscopic organism that infects the nervous system. The infection is passed in the urine and picked up when rabbits eat contaminated feed, such as grass. Many of the rabbits that are infected do not have any serious symptoms, but some get eye problems or become unsteady on their feet. Diagnosis is via blood tests, but this can be tricky as not all infected animals develop disease. Treatment is available from the vet, but has to be given continuously for one month. There are also medications that can help prevent infection. Ask your vet for advice