Common Rabbit Diseases

Rabbits, like all animals, can be susceptible to various diseases. Here are some of the most common rabbit diseases and their symptoms:

1. Gastrointestinal Stasis (GI Stasis)

Symptoms:

• Lack of appetite
• Small or no fecal pellets
• Lethargy
• Abdominal pain (hunched posture)

GI Stasis occurs when the digestive system slows down or stops, leading to a buildup of gas and bacteria. It’s often caused by a poor diet, stress, or dehydration1.

2. Snuffles

Symptoms:

• Runny nose
• Sneezing
• Watery eyes
• Labored breathing

Snuffles is a common respiratory infection in rabbits, usually caused by the bacteria Pasteurella multocida. It can be chronic and requires veterinary treatment2.

3. Ear Mites

Symptoms:

• Excessive scratching of ears
• Crusty, inflamed ear canals
• Head shaking

Ear mites are tiny parasites that infest the ears, causing discomfort and potential secondary infections. Treatment involves cleaning the ears and applying anti-parasitic medication2.

4. Myxomatosis

Symptoms:

• Swelling around the eyes, ears, and genital area
• Skin lesions
• Fever
• Lethargy

Myxomatosis is a viral disease spread by insects like fleas and mosquitoes. It is often fatal, and vaccination is the best prevention3.

5. Rabbit Hemorrhagic Disease (RHD)

Symptoms:

• Sudden death
• Fever
• Lethargy
• Bleeding from the nose or mouth

RHD is a highly contagious viral disease that affects the liver and other organs. Vaccination is crucial for prevention3.

6. Coccidiosis

Symptoms:

• Diarrhea
• Weight loss
• Dehydration
• Abdominal pain

Coccidiosis is caused by protozoan parasites that infect the intestines or liver. It is common in young rabbits and requires prompt treatment with anti-parasitic medication1.

7. Flystrike (Myiasis)

Symptoms:

• Maggots on the skin
• Foul odor
• Lethargy
• Loss of appetite

Flystrike occurs when flies lay eggs on a rabbit’s skin, and the hatching larvae burrow into the flesh. It is a medical emergency and requires immediate veterinary care1.

8. Dental Disease

Symptoms:

• Drooling
• Difficulty eating
• Weight loss
• Facial swelling

Rabbits’ teeth grow continuously, and dental problems can arise if they don’t wear down properly. Regular dental check-ups and providing chew toys can help prevent issues3.

9. Uterine Cancer

Symptoms:

• Blood in urine
• Lethargy
• Weight loss
• Abdominal swelling

Unspayed female rabbits are at high risk for uterine cancer. Spaying is the best prevention method1.

10. Skin Infections

Symptoms:

• Red, inflamed skin
• Hair loss
• Scabs or sores

Skin infections can be caused by bacteria, fungi, or parasites. Treatment depends on the underlying cause and may include antibiotics or antifungal medications3.

Conclusion

Regular veterinary check-ups, a balanced diet, and proper housing can help prevent many of these common rabbit diseases. If you notice any signs of illness in your rabbits, it’s important to seek veterinary care promptly to ensure their health and well-being.

If you have any more questions or need further information, feel free to ask!