At this time of year, our thoughts turn to getting our gardens looking good. When you embark on your spring cleaning and planting, don’t forget about your rabbits, however. Many garden chemicals are poisonous to rabbits.
Common garden products that could harm your rabbits include weed killers, fertilisers, fungicides, insecticides, slug pellets and rodent bait. If you suspect your pet has come into contact with any of these, wash the chemical off their skin immediately, keep them away from other animals, and get them to a vet as soon as possible. Take the packet or bottle with you to help the vet decide the right treatment.
Cleaning products for decking and patios can also irritate your pets’ skin or poison them if ingested. If your rabbits roam freely in your garden, use chemical-free cleaning methods (such as a pressure washer) instead.
Like to grow your own? You might be surprised to learn that several popular fruit and veg plants are toxic to rabbits. So be sure to plant your aubergines, garlic, onions, potatoes, rhubarb and tomatoes where your rabbits can’t nibble their leaves.