If you’re looking for an alternative to the traditional pet cone or Elizabethan collar for your rabbit, a medical pet shirt is a great option. The MPS-Medical Pet Shirt (Figure 1) helps prevent your rabbit from licking or scratching at wounds, surgical sites or irritated areas while giving your furry friend the comfort and freedom it deserves for a faster recovery.
When should I use a medical pet shirt for my rabbit?
There are many situations when you can use a medical pet shirt for rabbits, but here are some common situations:
- Post-surgery protection: after a surgical procedure, rabbits may need to wear a medical pet shirt to protect the surgical site from excessive licking or scratching. The MPS-Medical Pet Shirt helps prevent the rabbit from accessing the incision or wound, reducing the risk of infection and promoting proper healing
- Wound and injury management: in cases where rabbits have minor wounds or injuries, you can use the medical pet shirt to cover and protect the affected area. This can help prevent further irritation, contamination or self-inflicted damage while the rabbit heals
- Skin conditions: rabbits can develop skin issues, such as dermatitis or allergies, which may cause them to scratch excessively. A medical pet shirt can act as a barrier, preventing direct contact between the rabbit’s nails and the affected area, thus aiding in the healing process
- Preventing overgrooming: some rabbits may overgroom themselves due to stress, anxiety or other behavioural issues. Wearing an MPS-Medical Pet Shirt can help reduce the likelihood of overgrooming, which can lead to hair loss, skin problems and potential injuries
- Post-operative bandage support: in cases where rabbits require bandages or dressings, a medical pet shirt can help keep these dressings secure and in place. It can be particularly useful for bandages that are challenging to apply or keep on due to the rabbit’s movements
Is the MPS-Medical Pet Shirt easy to use?
Getting the MPS-Medical Pet Shirt on and off has never been easier!
First, roll up the shirt, grasping the middle head opening in your hand and ensuring the blue inner layer faces downward. Begin by sliding your rabbit’s head through the opening before slipping one leg into the smaller leg opening and the other leg into the remaining one.
Then, gently pull the shirt over your rabbit’s body until it reaches the back. To properly secure the shirt, draw the lower belly flaps between the hindlegs and bring them towards the upper flaps near the base of the tail.
Finally, fasten the two flaps together using the buttons or snaps provided. Take a moment to inspect the fit around your rabbit’s legs, neck and tail, ensuring there is ample room for movement and comfortable breathing. If necessary, make adjustments to the snaps.
How comfortable is the MPS-Medical Pet Shirt?
Made from high-quality, soft and stretchy materials, the MPS-Medical Pet Shirt offers a snug fit that keeps the shirt securely in place, preventing any escape attempts (Figure 2). However, it’s essential to keep a close eye on your furry friend to ensure the fit is just right, neither too tight nor too loose.
When nature calls
Because of the specially tailored opening at the back, most rabbits can leave the MPS-Medical Pet Shirt fully closed when nature calls. How convenient! Nevertheless, it’s a good idea to periodically check the back opening while your rabbit is wearing the pet shirt.
Less stress for a faster recovery
So why should you use an MPS-Medical Pet Shirt for your rabbit?
- It’s an alternative to the rabbit cone that’s recommended by veterinarians
- It replaces a full-body bandage
- Your rabbits can move comfortably
- It’s safe for the rabbit and the environment
- It has a patented breathable design
- Rabbits can use the litter box while wearing it
- It’s machine washable and reusable
- It’s available in six sizes