If your dog ate a rabbit, in most cases there should be nothing to worry about. However, the rabbit might have been infected or, if it was already dead before your dog ate it, it might have been sick or poisoned. In that case, a visit to the veterinarian might be necessary to prevent worse outcomes.
Can a dog get sick from eating a rabbit?
So the good news is that eating a rabbit probably won't make your dog sick. After all, many dog foods contain rabbit meat for protein. However, wild rabbits can carry parasites and other diseases that could pose problems for your pooch.
What happens if my dog eats a dead rabbit?
Dead animals may also be carrying dangerous bacteria that your dog could be exposed to. One of the most dangerous is clostridium botulinum, which is a preformed neurotoxin that can be found in dead animal carcasses. Dogs can contract botulism from ingesting contaminated carcasses.
Can a dog eat a whole rabbit?
If you were to feed your dog a whole rabbit, you would be giving them access to the stomach contents, which would contain plant matter that dogs need for vitamins and minerals. Since most dog owners don't have access to whole dead rabbits, it can be hard for you to provide the stomach for your dog.
Why is my dog eating rabbits?
Today's domesticated dogs are descended from wolves, and most retain predatory instincts. Small animals, such as rabbits, trigger your dog's prey instinct when they startle and flee from your dog. If your dog is able to catch the rabbit, he will usually take it and tear into it, eating some or all of his catch.
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