Rabbit
Health
While rabbits do not have that many veterinary issues
as other pets, there are still certain health problems particular to
them that every pet owner should be aware of. In general, the pet owner
should be very familiar with his/her bunny’s habitual behavior. Any
deviation from this usual self is a sign of a disease or health problem.
One should be on the look-out for the following signs:
(i)
Not eating, urinating or defecating
(ii)
Listlessness
(iii)
Blood in urine
(iv)
Increase in rate of drinking and urinating
(v)
Loss of coordination, and head tilte
If any of these signs are seen, the attention of the
vet should be sought immediately.
Rabbits are prone to the following health conditions:
(I) Gastrointestinal
stasis—involves the complete shutting down of the GI tract so that the
animal ceases to eat and drink completely. It eventually leads to
starvation and death. Prevent this condition by increasing the fiber
content of the feed and decreasing protein and fat content.
(II)
Coccidiosis — an internal parasitic infection of the small
intestine leading to loss of appetite, diarrhea, bloating, and loss of
hair. Infected rabbits must isolated (so as other rabbits are not
infected) and vet attention sought.
(III) Upper Respiratory Infections — has symptoms such as
sneezing, nasal discharge, and breathing difficulty. This is one of the
leading causes of death in rabbits. Often, treatment involves
administration of drugs through a pill.
(IV)
Inner Ear Infections — causes lack of coordination and head
tilt. It can be caused by a variety of pathogens. General antibiotics
are administered by the vet in treatment.
(V) Parasites
— ear mites are a common problem. Symptoms include
inflammation and scratching of ears or shaking of head. Crust-like mucus
develops in the ear. It is preferable to avoid cleaning the clear
oneself as one may damage the ear further. Professional advice should be
sought.
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