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.
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. Alliance Nutrition
incorporates this natural additive in all of its rabbit products
for the health of the rabbits and peace of mind of rabbit growers.
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. Specific treatment should
be recommended by a veterinarian familiar with this problem.
FLEAS Fleas and ticks can be killed with appropriate,
approved powder.
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. Check with a veterinarian for his or her
recommendations.
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. Check
with a veterinarian for his/her 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.
For More Information contact
AN_RabbitHelp@admworld.com
ADM Alliance Nutrition, Inc. 1000 North 30th
Street P.O. Box C1 Quincy, IL USA 62305-3155
