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Rabbits are generally
healthy. Like most animals, however, they may become
ill. Your first choice in
seeking advice for proper health care should be a veterinarian. Ask other rabbit
producers for a veterinarian recommendation.
COCCIDIOSIS - This is a diminishing problem due to the self-cleaning
cage. This protozoan can infect the liver and digestive tract of the rabbit.
Generally, it will be fatal only with very young or stressed adults. An
adult-rabbit carrier will be rough looking and won’t gain weight properly. A
simple test on a fecal sample (by your veterinarian) can determine whether this
is a problem. If present, a treatment will be suggested.
PARASITES - Pinworms are believed to be the only common parasite found in
rabbits. Once again, the animal will be rough and won’t gain weight properly.
Self-cleaning cages have brought this under general control. Please check with
your veterinarian regarding the best way to eliminate this parasite.
Pinworms can be introduced by feeding fresh green stuff from your yard.
SNUFFLES - Snuffles, or more properly Pasturella, has long been the bane
of rabbit growers. This nasal infection can develop into pneumonia, defies
antibiotics and many attempts to develop a vaccine have failed. Breeders using
feed with a natural additive known as “yucca” report the additive
significantly reduces the incidence of this viral disorder which is worsened by
the presence of ammonia. Yucca significantly reduces the amount of ammonia in
rabbit facilities, as is evidenced by the sharp reduction of the odor usually
associated with rabbits. Yucca has been used in conventional farm animal
feed since 1976. The product is not absorbed in the digestive system and is
considered a food stuff, not a medication, meaning no withdrawal time is
required.
EAR CANKER - This is caused by ear mites. The rabbit will scratch and
shake its head. Scabs will form in the ear and crust over. Many ear remedies, or
a light oil, will suffocate the mites. The cage should be cleaned to kill any
wandering mites. Rabbits in adjoining cages should be treated also. We use 1%
Ivomec wormer for cattle & swine. Three drops between the shoulders on
an adult will take care of ear & fur mites and pinworms for up to 3 months.
Lesser dose for smaller rabbits.
FLEAS - Fleas and ticks can be killed with appropriate, approved powder
and prevented by using 3 drops of Ivomec 1% between the shoulder blades of an
adult.
WRY NECK - The exact cause of this is unknown, although the bacteria
usually isolated is a Pasturella sp. and there is inflammation of the middle
ear. The result is that the rabbit will start to tilt its head at an odd angle.
This will worsen until the animal cannot stand. It is probably best to humanely
dispose of the animal.
SORE EYES - This disorder is marked by the inability to open the eye. A
discharge will come from the eye. A veterinarian’s recommendation is advised.
SORE HOCKS - These are basically what the name
implies. It is said that a good hemorrhoid medicine is adequate treatment. Also
place a board in the cage to help protect the hocks. Remember to keep the
board sanitary to prevent infection. Check with a veterinarian for
recommendations.
MALOCCLUSION (BUCK TEETH) - This problem is not curable and can be passed
genetically. It is generally recommended that those afflicted should not be
permitted to enter the breeding colony. It is probably best to humanely
dispose of the animal.
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