My rabbit is having breathing problems — is it an emergency?

Rabbits are obligate nasal breathers — any visible open-mouth breathing, blue-tinged gums, or labored chest movement is a critical emergency requiring immediate veterinary care.

Unlike dogs and cats, rabbits almost never breathe through their mouths voluntarily. Open-mouth breathing in a rabbit means their respiratory system is severely compromised — there is no "wait and see" when this occurs.

Normal breathing rate
30–60 breaths per minute at rest. Count chest movements for 30 seconds and double the result. Above 80 breaths per minute at rest is cause for immediate concern.

Red flag signs — act within minutes
- Open-mouth breathing or gasping
- Blue, white, or grey gums (cyanosis)
- Extended neck posture (trying to open airway)
- Noisy rattling or gurgling breathing
- Sudden collapse or loss of balance

Orange flag signs — act within hours
- Persistent nasal discharge (one or both nostrils)
- Clicking or wheezing sound with each breath
- Breathing rate consistently above 70 at rest
- Reduced appetite alongside respiratory symptoms

Common causes
- Upper respiratory infection (Pasteurella multocida — "snuffles"): nasal discharge, sneezing, wet nose
- Lower respiratory infection or pneumonia: more severe, systemic illness
- Pleural effusion (fluid around lungs): often from E. cuniculi or cardiac disease in older rabbits
- Heat stress: leads to rapid shallow panting
- Cardiac disease: more common in rabbits over 5 years

Emergency transport
Keep the rabbit calm and minimally handled — stress massively worsens respiratory distress. Place in a cool, well-ventilated carrier. Do not place your face close to theirs or restrain them tightly.

Download Flovvi and record your rabbit's resting respiratory rate as a baseline. Our AI Triage will help you interpret changes and decide if your rabbit needs emergency care.