I've owned large dogs for over fifteen years, and one thing I've learned is new owners of large breed dogs don't realise how much exercise and training they need to stay stimulated and healthy. I started this blog to share my personal experience of training large dog breeds, including great danes and mastiffs, and my blog posts detail tips I've gathered over the years from fellow owners and enthusiasts of large dog breeds. I also post about new dog training products I've tried and accept guest posts on any related topics. I hope you find the information on my blog interesting and useful.
Respiratory bacterial infection is a serious condition that can affect a rabbit's entire respiratory system from their nose to their lungs, and without prompt treatment, the bacteria involved can even spread through the blood to the surrounding tissues and joints and cause abscesses to form. It is a contagious condition that can affect any rabbit, and when it's found in kittens (baby rabbits), it's typically transmitted when the kitten passes through the birth canal. Here's an overview of treating respiratory bacterial infection in rabbits.
Symptoms
Common symptoms of respiratory bacterial infection include difficulty breathing, which often presents as shortness of breath and sneezing. Your rabbit may also have a clear or mucous nasal discharge and seem disorientated when moving around. Facial swelling, shaking of the head and blocked tear ducts, which will cause crustiness and swelling, are also common symptoms of this condition. If abscesses form, they may be palpable just under the skin when you pick your rabbit up. Additionally, some rabbits develop a low mood, stop eating and become withdrawn, which are common signs of illness in rabbits.
Diagnosis
Your vet will make their diagnosis by taking details of your rabbit's symptoms and carrying out a thorough physical exam. They will take a swab of nasal discharge to determine the type of bacteria present and blood and urine samples will be taken to check organ function and determine whether inflammatory markers are raised, which is indicative of an infection. Your rabbit may also have to undergo diagnostic imaging, such as an X-ray or CT scan, to allow your vet to determine if there's damage to their lungs and to establish the size and exact location of any abscesses.
Treatment
Treatment for respiratory bacterial infection will include antibiotics and antimicrobials. It's sometimes beneficial to use anti-inflammatories to help the healing process and painkillers may help keep your rabbit comfortable. During treatment, you will need to keep your rabbit's eyes and nose clean and free of discharge and crusts, and your vet will show you how to do this. If abscesses are present, surgical removal may be necessary, and your rabbit will stay at the veterinary surgery for a few days to ensure they recover well. As respiratory bacterial infection is contagious, you will have to disinfect your rabbit's living area and keep them segregated from any other pets in your home until your vet confirms treatment has been successful.
If your rabbit has symptoms associated with respiratory bacterial infection, schedule an urgent appointment with your local veterinary services provider to prevent unnecessary suffering.
Share15 December 2020
