Stray rabbit found suffering in Edinburgh street

An abandoned rabbit has been put to sleep after it was found in 'extremely poor condition' in Edinburgh.

Published 15th Aug 2016

An abandoned rabbit has been put to sleep after it was found in 'extremely poor condition' in Edinburgh.

The stray animal was discovered off Gilmerton Road on Friday.

His condition was so severe that he had to be put to sleep to prevent any further suffering.

The Scottish SPCA's assistant centre manager Kenny Sharpe said, “This poor rabbit was a male English type rabbit who was suffering in the late stages of myxomatosis.

“He was emaciated, matted, had laboured breathing and was covered in urine and faeces.

“There were shavings over his body which suggests he had been in a hutch or had been in contact with bedding recently.

“This poor boy would have been suffering for a long time and we suspect someone has abandoned him in this terrible condition.

“Sadly, his condition would never have improved and he had to be put to sleep to prevent him from suffering any longer.

“We are urging anyone who has any information as to who may have owned this rabbit or who may have dumped him like this to contact us in confidence.”

Anyone with information is being urged to contact the Scottish SPCA animal helpline on 03000 999 999.