CARE

Are Rabbits Born Blind?

By Christine

Your bun’s eyes possess a fantastic quality. They can see nearly all the way around them. That’s due to their position high at the side of the head.

But that impressive, almost 360-degree vision rabbits enjoy comes later. At birth, baby bunnies can’t see.

Baby Rabbits at Birth

Rabbits are tiny, furless creatures when they emerge from their mother’s womb, measuring only around 2 inches and weighing close to nothing.

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Why Are They Born Blind?

The reasons why rabbits are born blind include the following:

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To Protect the Baby Rabbit

To Help the Mommy Rabbit

That depends on what you mean by seeing. Baby buns typically open their eyes 10-12 days after birth. But even then, they won’t be able to see very far.

How Long Before They Can See?

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Should We Help Them Open Their Eyes?

Your rabbit’s eyes stay close for a reason, so it’s best to let Nature take its course. Forcing those peepers open before they’re fully developed can have negative consequences, such as the destruction of the facial nerves, trauma to the eyelids or the eyes themselves.

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What If My Rabbit Won’t Open His Eyes?

If it’s been over 12 days and your pet’s eyes remain closed, you can consult a rabbit-savvy vet to air your concern. You may be asked to wait 2-3 days more and then bring your bunny for a check-up if those peepers still don’t open.

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