Rabbits with floppy ears are more prone to inner ear disease, researchers have found. The Royal Veterinary College (RVC), which led the study, said the findings highlight the importance of routine checks at the vets to monitor for the hidden and potentially hidden condition to protect the wellbeing of 'lop-eared' bunnies. An RVC spokesperson said the research confirms suggestions from previous research suggesting lop-eared breeds are more susceptible. Ear disease is a problem in part because it can go unnoticed as rabbits rarely display clear discomfort and infections can remain undetected unless spotted by a vet using the relevant equipment. The study involved the examination of 435 pedigree rabbits volunteered by British Rabbit Council breeders, and as well as ear types also looked into whether head shape, bodyweight, age and other features had any link to predisposition to ear abnormality. Results showed that ear shape 'plays a central role in predisposing rabbits to hidden ear disease', with lop-eared bunnies more likely to show nine of the 11 abnormalities assessed, such as ear canal narrowing, abnormal colour, or flaky and wet discharge, which can all be indicators for inflammation and pain, causing a 'serious impact on a rabbit’s welfare'. The RVC said the findings show breeders should avoid breeding from rabbits with ear canal redness, crusting, bleeding or early narrowing or whose parents had this. It added that the study reinforces the importance of routine ear examinations because early detection can prevent chronic inflammation, discomfort and self-injury.