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Spondylosis Deformans

Spondylosis deformans is a degenerative, non-inflammatory condition which affects a rabbit's spine. It causes the rabbit's body to form noncancerous tumor-like growths (or osteophytes) in the spinal column, most commonly the lower spine. And while many rabbits with this condition show no symptoms, some will suffer from pain.

Symptoms

Some rabbits with spondylosis deformans will display neurological problems because of the compression of the spinal cord. Other symptoms include:

• Obesity
• Weakness of the rear limbs
• Hair loss or flaking of the scalp
• Matted fur or soaking of under-belly or perineum area
• Buildup of ear wax in the canals because the animal is not able to properly groom

Causes

Trauma, genetic predispositions and obesity are all risk factors for spondylosis deformans. Obesity can especially lead to this spinal condition because the rabbit's bones alter and deteriorate due to the excess weight.

Diagnosis

The veterinarian will first want to rule out common causes of back pain, such as degenerative joint disease, certain forms of arthritis and even dental disease may lead to similar symptoms. X-rays, however, are generally used to identify osteophytes in the spinal column and diagnose spondylosis.