What is the problem if a rabbit keeps licking its lips repeatedly?

Answer 1

A rabbit might repeatedly lick its lips for many different reasons.

If your rabbit is doing this, look for other signs of ill-health -- see the related question below for details.

If you notice other bad signs, bring the rabbit to your usual "rabbit-savvy" vet as soon as possible. But, if in all other ways your rabbit is fine, then keep a very close eye on her, and just mention it at your next regular appointment. Be ready to bring your rabbit to the vet immediately if other bad signs develop.

Some possible reasons why a rabbit might lip its licks repeatedly:

• It's dehydrated or thirsty. Make sure the rabbit has access to clean, fresh water in a clean container. Some rabbits like bowls, some rabbits like bottles, and some rabbits are fine with both. If it's a bottle, make sure it's clean and the spout isn't blocked. Replace the water and wash the container every day, even if the rabbit doesn't drink it all.
• There's something uncomfortable in its mouth, for example tooth spurs that are rubbing against the tongue or cheeks and causing irritation and ulcers (wounds). Dental spurs can be caused by feeding too many pellets and not enough hay. Small dental spurs sometimes wear down on their own, but sometimes they don't and they need to be clipped off or ground down by the vet.

Answer 2

Repeated lip licking in rabbits can indicate dental pain or discomfort. It may be a sign of dental issues such as overgrown teeth, tooth root problems, or mouth sores. It is important to have the rabbit examined by a veterinarian to determine the underlying cause and provide appropriate treatment.