Rabbit Ailments
Diarrhoea – Enteritis (inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract). This can be caused by diet change or coccidiosis. Symptoms include dehydration, weight loss, loss of appetite. (Rabbits are hind gut fermenters and rely on the the correct balance of bacteria to digest foods.
Ear Infection – Commonly caused by Psoroptes cuniculi – ear mites. Can lead to bacterial infection. Symptoms include Itching, head shaking, ear scratching, inflammation.
Fly strike – Caused when flies lay eggs in damaged skin then maggots eat flesh. Symptoms include depression, uncomfortable, seizures possible. Wet and dirty rabbits are more at risk.
Hariballs/Woolblock –Caused by overgrooming due to boredom. Angora rabbits are an increased risk. Groom rabbits to remove loose hair and decrease risk
Malocclusion – Overgrown teeth generally due to diet. Symptoms – dribbling not eating
Ringworm – Zoonosis fungus. Symptoms include bold encrusted areas
PCV – Rabbit Calicivirus – Symptoms include lethargy, off food, fever, spasms. Highly contagious and deadly. Vaccinate annually from 12 weeks of age.
Snuffles – Pasturella bacteria. Highly contagious. Symptoms include discharge from nose and eyes, sneezing and snuffing noises.
Sorehocks/Pododermatitis – Pressure sores caused by hard surfaces. Can become infected. Urine scalding due to rabbit sitting in it’s own pee can also be a cause. Symptoms – Hari loss, swelling, ulceration around the hocks. Keep hutch clean, provide thick bedding. Obesity increases risk. Maintain a good healthy weight.