A comfortable recovery for rabbits

Wound protection in rabbits requires an animal-friendly approach. A recovery collar can limit rabbits in their daily activities, whereas the Protective Pet Shirt can support a comfortable and stress-free recovery.

Why a recovery collar is less suitable for rabbits

Keeping a wound clean and dry can be challenging. At the same time, it is important to prevent self-trauma caused by biting, scratching, licking or gnawing.

Recovery collars are still regularly used for dogs and cats. However, a collar can restrict an animal’s ability to move, eat, drink, rest and groom itself. For rabbits, these restrictions can be particularly burdensome.

Rabbits need to be able to reach their hindquarters to groom themselves and consume their caecotrophs. These soft, moist droppings contain proteins, fatty acids and vitamins. By consuming their caecotrophs, rabbits are able to absorb and benefit from these important nutrients.

When wearing a recovery collar, a rabbit may not be able to reach its hindquarters properly, which can make it more difficult to consume its caecotrophs. Soft droppings may also stick to the fur if the rabbit is unable to groom itself, compromising hygiene and increasing the risk of skin problems. Wearing a collar may also cause additional stress.

Rabbit-friendly protection after surgery or treatment

Without adequate protection, there is a risk that a rabbit will gnaw at a wound, stitches or irritated skin. This may lead to irritation, wound complications or damage to the surgical site.

The MPS Protective Pet Shirt Rabbit has been specially developed to meet the anatomy and natural needs of rabbits. The shirt directly covers the treated area with a breathable and flexible cotton-Lycra blend, while allowing rabbits to continue moving, resting, eating and drinking freely.

Thanks to the opening beneath the tail, most rabbits can continue wearing the shirt while defecating. This keeps the hindquarters accessible and allows most rabbits to continue consuming their caecotrophs.

The Protective Pet Shirt can be used to support recovery in cases including:

postoperative recovery, for example after neutering or abdominal surgery;
protection of wounds and stitches on the body;
dermatological conditions and hot spots;
excessive licking, biting or gnawing;
light incontinence or minor wound leakage.

Supporting wound checks and recovery

The fastening on the back makes the Protective Pet Shirt easy to put on and take off. The shirt can also be opened quickly for a wound check without having to remove it completely.

The shirt has a light blue inner layer, making wound fluid and other moisture easier to detect. An absorbent dressing or cold pack can be placed between the double layer of fabric.

Check the following regularly during use:

the wound, stitches and surrounding skin;
the fit of the shirt;
the skin around the neck, legs and tail;
the rabbit’s eating habits, droppings and general behaviour.

Designed for a comfortable fit

The soft, elastic edges around the neck, legs and tail help prevent chafing and pressure points. The correct fit is essential for effective protection: the shirt should fit snugly without being too tight or too loose.

The size is determined based on the rabbit’s weight. The rabbit’s body shape and the thickness of its coat should also be taken into account. If the rabbit falls between two sizes, the smaller size is generally recommended.

If the shirt becomes dirty, it can be washed at temperatures of up to 90°C. You may wish to advise owners to keep a second shirt available so that the rabbit can remain protected while the other shirt is being washed.

Practical guidance for the owner

Providing clear instructions when supplying the Protective Pet Shirt helps prevent complications during recovery. Show the owner how to put the shirt on and take it off, how to check the wound daily and what to monitor during use.

Rabbits are often most active at dusk and during the night. It is therefore particularly important for the owner to check the rabbit regularly while it is wearing the Protective Pet Shirt. The owner should monitor the fit of the shirt, the condition of the wound, eating and defecation, and any attempts to gnaw at the shirt or treated area.

With the correct size, regular checks and appropriate guidance, the Protective Pet Shirt provides targeted protection while preserving important natural behaviors as much as possible.

This allows you to support not only the protection of the affected area, but also a comfortable and stress-free recovery at home.