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~ Rabbits & Guinea Pigs~
Grooming
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If you don’t want to spend money on expensive grooming brushes and combs, do some research before you purchase your rabbit or guinea pig. There are long haired breeds that will need constant brushing in both animals. As well, some hair types matt and may hinder the animal’s movement.
I once had an angora rabbit surrendered to my care that had its back legs matted to its body and it couldn’t move properly. It took two people to gently cut the mats away and free the poor animal over a period of two or three days. It has been fed well and the family had loved it but they hadn’t realised that it needed brushing every day.
Grooming mitts are the easiest to use as they fit over your hand and brushing their coat will feel like you are stroking the animal. You may have to purchase combs and slicker brushes for stubborn areas. Good brands have dulled tips so that you can’t injure your pet while you are using them.
Take care when brushing around your pet’s eyes and ears. These are highly sensitive areas and can be damaged very easily. Unless it’s absolutely necessary, I wouldn’t touch these areas.
When picking up your pet and handling it watch out for back legs that kick as the claws are often sharp. Wear long sleeves and gloves to protect your hands and arms.
You can use nail files to make claws less sharp. The ones we use for ourselves are just as good as those for animals. There are special clippers and scissors available, however, for cutting your pet’s nails. Shop around for strong reliable ones with safety features that will ensure you don’t cut your pet by mistake. Make sure you don’t cut the quick of the nail which will bleed. If you’re not sure how to clip nails properly, ask you pet care professional.
To train your pet to sit still, practise for a few minutes every day. Find out which fruit or vegetable your rabbit likes the best and only use this when you want to train him or her to sit quietly. Gently move your hand over its body while giving the treats so it gets used to you touching it. Touch its feet and tail very gently and stroke its head and ears. Over time, your pet will get used to you handling it and will trust you more when you introduce the grooming equipment.
When the animal is relaxed, you can then introduce the grooming mitt or brush. Again, only use it gently at first until the animal is completely relaxed while you are brushing it all over. Keep these sessions very short, a few minutes a day and gradually build up the time as your rabbit gets used to you handling it.
Both rabbits and guinea pigs enjoy being petted by their owners. It may take some time but it is worth the effort and these grooming sessions will provide a wonderful opportunity for you to bond with your pet.
