http://www.petmd.com/rabbit/health/rss Health Library en http://www.petmd.com/rabbit/conditions/eyes/c_rb_epiphora  
Epiphora is characterized by an abnormal flow of tears from the eyes, usually occurring as a result of poor eyelid function, blockage of the nasal and eye portion of the tear ducts (nasolacrimal), or eye infection or inflammation, which may all be precipitated by by dental disease or tooth abscess. As rabbits have only one tear duct -- located very close to the tooth and gums -- the duct can be easily blocked due to oral disease (longtooth impaction is also very common in rabbits). Epiphora may occur also due to longstanding respiratory disorders that block the nas ...read more]]> http://www.petmd.com/rabbit/conditions/eyes/c_rb_epiphora#comments Eyes Mon, 07 Jun 2010 14:46:08 +0000 10084 at http://www.petmd.com http://www.petmd.com/rabbit/conditions/mouth/c_rb_incisor_malocclusion_overgrowth  
A rabbit's teeth usually grow throughout its life, and a high fiber diet, with foods that warrant heavy chewing, are required for proper alignment and functioning, as the coarse foods help to keep the teeth at a manageable length. Occlusion, the fitting together of the teeth of the upper and lower jaws when the mouth is closed, can be hampered by overgrowth of one or more of the teeth, a condition referred to as malocclusion (where the prefix mal- joined with -occlusion refers to the ill-fitting shape of the teeth).
 
If elongatio ...read more]]> http://www.petmd.com/rabbit/conditions/mouth/c_rb_incisor_malocclusion_overgrowth#comments Mouth Tue, 15 Jun 2010 20:28:50 +0000 10130 at http://www.petmd.com http://www.petmd.com/rabbit/conditions/musculoskeletal/c_rb_arthritis_septic  
Arthritis is the general medical term for inflamed joints. Septic arthritis, on the other hand, is a condition that occurs when bacteria infects one or more of the rabbit’s joints.
 
There is no age, breed, or gender predisposition for septic arthritis in rabbits.
 
Symptoms and Types
 

Sluggish behavior
Lameness
Anorexia
Joint pain and swelling
Warmth emanating from the joints
Decreased range of motion
Signs of infection (e.g., urina ...read more]]> http://www.petmd.com/rabbit/conditions/musculoskeletal/c_rb_arthritis_septic#comments Musculoskeletal Fri, 25 Jul 2008 19:33:21 +0000 301 at http://www.petmd.com http://www.petmd.com/rabbit/conditions/endocrine/c_rb_mastitis_cystic_septic  
Septic mastitis refers to an infection of the lactating glands, the glands that make milk after a mammal has given birth. This infection occurs when there is a spread of bacterial to the lactating glands. If left untreated, the bacteria may spread to the blood and lymph glands, affecting the whole body and leading to a potentially life-threatening condition. If the infection remains confined to the mammary glands, abscess may occur in the glands.
 
Cystic mastitis, which is characterized by fluid filled cysts, or fluid filled sacs that occu ...read more]]> http://www.petmd.com/rabbit/conditions/endocrine/c_rb_mastitis_cystic_septic#comments Endocrine Tue, 15 Jun 2010 20:58:51 +0000 10134 at http://www.petmd.com http://www.petmd.com/rabbit/conditions/skin/c_rb_pyoderma Pyoderma is a medical term for bacterial skin infections occurring in rabbits. These infections usually occur when the rabbit's skin tears or breaks, or when the skin is exposed to moist conditions, therefore altering the flora found within. Normally, healthy bacteria exist in the rabbit's skin and moist mucous membranes. At times, however, this can become compromised, allowing for harmful bacteria to overgrow.
 
Symptoms
 
Most signs for pyoderma depend on the type of bacterial infection the rabbit has, but some of the more common symptoms include:
 

]]> http://www.petmd.com/rabbit/conditions/skin/c_rb_pyoderma#comments Skin Mon, 22 Sep 2008 17:18:19 +0000 538 at http://www.petmd.com http://www.petmd.com/rabbit/conditions/nose/c_rb_epistaxis  
Epistaxis, or bleeding from the nose, occurs due to one of three abnormalities: blood clotting disorder, space-occupying tumor, or organ disease. Complications due to nose bleeds can range from relatively minor ones like sneezing to more severe health risks like anemia due to loss of blood, or respiratory, and circulatory system dysfunctions. The digestive system may also be affected if the rabbit swallows large amounts of blood.
 
Symptoms and Types
 

Bleeding from the nose
Sneezing, nasal discharge, staining of the fron ...read more]]> http://www.petmd.com/rabbit/conditions/nose/c_rb_epistaxis#comments Respiratory Mon, 07 Jun 2010 14:53:32 +0000 10085 at http://www.petmd.com http://www.petmd.com/rabbit/conditions/urinary/c_rb_hematuria  
Hematuria is defined as the presence of blood in the urine. Although dietary pigments (i.e., components of ingested food or drink) or blood from the female reproductive tract can sometimes lend a red tinge to the urine, this should not be confused with true hematuria, which is indicated by blood that has originated with the stream of urine.
 
Symptoms and Types
 

Red-tinged urine (due to the discharge of blood clots)
Painful abdomen on palpation
Development of tumor/lump
Enlarged bladder, leadin ...read more]]> http://www.petmd.com/rabbit/conditions/urinary/c_rb_hematuria#comments Urinary Tue, 15 Jun 2010 20:15:25 +0000 10128 at http://www.petmd.com http://www.petmd.com/rabbit/conditions/eyes/c_rb_exophthalmos_orbital_disease  
Exophthalmos is a condition in which the rabbit's eyeballs are displaced from the orbital cavity or eye socket due to oral diseases or the development of swelling or a growth behind the eye. Typically, the eyeball is pushed forward and away from the socket, but depending on the location of the swelling, the eyeball may displaced in the backward direction on rare occasions.
 
Young rabbits, dwarf breeds, lop breeds, and middle-aged rabbits are more easily affected by exophthalmus due to a primary tooth or oral disease.
 
Sympt ...read more]]> http://www.petmd.com/rabbit/conditions/eyes/c_rb_exophthalmos_orbital_disease#comments Eyes Mon, 07 Jun 2010 15:13:32 +0000 10086 at http://www.petmd.com http://www.petmd.com/rabbit/conditions/reproductive/c_rb_uterine_adenocarcinoma  
 
Uterine adenocarcinoma, a gland-like, malignant type of tumor that arises from the secretory tissue that lines the inner cavity of the uterus, is one of the most common forms of cancer in rabbits, occurring in up to 60 percent of female rabbits over three years old. These malignant uterine tumors usually arise from the endometrial lining of the uterus, or from the inside layers of the uterus.
 
Often uterine cancer forms after a rabbit has already developed some other reproductive problem in its uterus, including endometriosis, a painfu ...read more]]> http://www.petmd.com/rabbit/conditions/reproductive/c_rb_uterine_adenocarcinoma#comments Reproductive Sat, 22 May 2010 15:33:10 +0000 7387 at http://www.petmd.com http://www.petmd.com/rabbit/conditions/mouth/c_rb_malocclusion_teeth   
In rabbits, the molars and premolar teeth are aligned as a single functional unit and referred to as the cheek teeth. Cheek teeth elongation occurs when normal wear does not properly occur, or when the teeth do not align properly (malocclusion). The latter is one of the most common complaints in pet rabbits, and can happen either at birth from trauma or because of other reasons.
 
Cheek teeth elongation generally occurs in middle-aged or older rabbits, while younger rabbits may suffer from congenital malocclusion. ...read more]]> http://www.petmd.com/rabbit/conditions/mouth/c_rb_malocclusion_teeth#comments Mouth Fri, 25 Jul 2008 19:53:39 +0000 303 at http://www.petmd.com http://www.petmd.com/rabbit/conditions/digestive/c_rb_weight_loss  
 
Weight loss in rabbits generally becomes a cause for concern when the rabbit loses ten percent or more of its normal body weight, and the weight is determined to be more than simply the loss of fluid. If the weight loss accompanies a wasting disease, referred to clinically as cachexia and exhibited by loss of body mass, muscle atrophy, and loss of appetite, or is related to a condition where the rabbit is in poor health, is not eating well, and is experiencing general weakness, the rabbit will require prompt attention by a health profession ...read more]]> http://www.petmd.com/rabbit/conditions/digestive/c_rb_weight_loss#comments Digestive Fri, 21 May 2010 03:11:25 +0000 7384 at http://www.petmd.com http://www.petmd.com/rabbit/conditions/eyes/c_rb_cataracts  
A cataract is an opaque film on the lens of the eye, and may mean the lens is entirely or only partially clouded. In most instances, cataracts are present at the rabbit's birth.
 
Symptoms and Types
 

Lens is partially or fully opaque
Eye discharge (hyper-mature cataract)
Swelling of the iris
White nodule-like bumps on the iris

 
Cataract types:
 

Immature – lens partially covered
Mature – entire lens covered
Hy ...read more]]> http://www.petmd.com/rabbit/conditions/eyes/c_rb_cataracts#comments Eyes Fri, 25 Jul 2008 19:49:46 +0000 302 at http://www.petmd.com http://www.petmd.com/rabbit/conditions/digestive/c_rb_gastrointestinal_hypomotility_stasis  
Gastrointestinal hypomotility (where "hypo" means deficient) is a syndrome in which the muscles of the digestive system show poor contraction, resulting in abnormally slow movement of ingested food through the digestive tract. Gastrointestinal stasis, on the otherhand, is a condition in which there is no movement of food through the digestive tract.
 
Gastrointestinal hypomotility is more commonly seen in middle-aged to older rabbits on inappropriate diets, but can occur in rabbits of any age.
  ...read more]]> http://www.petmd.com/rabbit/conditions/digestive/c_rb_gastrointestinal_hypomotility_stasis#comments Digestive Tue, 15 Jun 2010 19:48:22 +0000 10126 at http://www.petmd.com http://www.petmd.com/rabbit/conditions/musculoskeletal/c_rb_arthritis_osteoarthritis  
Osteoarthritis, also known as degenerative joint disease (DJD), is a chronic (long-term) condition that causes the cartilage surrounding the joints to deteriorate. Arthritis, on the other hand, is the general medical term for inflamed joints. And much like humans, rabbits can suffer from osteoarthritis.
 
Symptoms and Types 
 
Symptoms of DJD vary depending on severity and cause, though affected rabbits may show lameness or a stiff gait, restricted motion, or be unable to hop. These symptoms may also worsen with exercise or after long ...read more]]> http://www.petmd.com/rabbit/conditions/musculoskeletal/c_rb_arthritis_osteoarthritis#comments Musculoskeletal Fri, 25 Jul 2008 19:21:08 +0000 300 at http://www.petmd.com http://www.petmd.com/rabbit/conditions/digestive/c_rb_melena  
Melena is a condition in which digested blood is found in the rabbit's fecal contents, making them appear green–black or tarry colored. Though relatively rare in pet rabbits, melena typically occurs as a result of bleeding in the upper digestive tract. It can also result from bleeding that has taken place in the oral cavity or upper respiratory tract. The affected rabbit swallows and digests this blood, which then results in the appearance of the melena.
 
The following conditions put rabbits at a higher risk for developing melena: unsupervised chewing, ...read more]]> http://www.petmd.com/rabbit/conditions/digestive/c_rb_melena#comments Digestive Tue, 22 Jun 2010 02:45:46 +0000 10173 at http://www.petmd.com http://www.petmd.com/rabbit/conditions/ears/c_rb_head_tilt  
The vestibular system is a major component of the sensory system, a complex system that includes the labyrinth of the inner ear, the medulla of the brain, and the vestibular nerve. Together, the system contributes to the correct positioning of different parts of the body, the smooth movements of the limbs and trunk, and proper balance. Therefore, dysfunction in the system can result in a false sense of movement, vertigo, wobbling eyes, heat tilt, and hearing loss.
 
In rabbits, vestibular disease is commonly due to ear infection and ...read more]]> http://www.petmd.com/rabbit/conditions/ears/c_rb_head_tilt#comments Ears Tue, 15 Jun 2010 20:00:32 +0000 10127 at http://www.petmd.com http://www.petmd.com/rabbit/conditions/musculoskeletal/c_rb_vertebral_fracture_luxation  
Normally, rabbits have very strong hind legs, which they use for hopping. Vertebral fracture or luxation (dislocation) of the limbs in rabbits is a common cause for weakness and paralysis of the hind limbs.
 
Sometimes, often because of improper handling, caged rabbits can twist their legs right at the junction of their lumbar spine and sacrum (base of the spine), which can result in a vertebral fracture. Some develop what is called a luxation, which is a dislocation that occurs at the lumbar L7 point (the lower spine), though fracture ...read more]]> http://www.petmd.com/rabbit/conditions/musculoskeletal/c_rb_vertebral_fracture_luxation#comments Musculoskeletal Fri, 21 May 2010 03:02:43 +0000 7383 at http://www.petmd.com http://www.petmd.com/rabbit/conditions/digestive/c_rb_gastric_dilation  
Gastric dilation is a syndrome in which the stomach expands (dilates) due to excess gas and fluid, resulting in complex local and systemic changes in the digestive tract. In most cases, it occurs due to foreign body obstruction. In rare instances, the stomach dilates in the absence of a foreign body. In either case, a mechanical or functional obstruction occurs at the opening of the stomach into the intestine, and fluid or semi-digested food accumulates in the stomach.
 
Twisting of the stomach, a condition called gastric volvulus, is rarely seen in ...read more]]> http://www.petmd.com/rabbit/conditions/digestive/c_rb_gastric_dilation#comments Digestive Tue, 15 Jun 2010 19:30:52 +0000 10124 at http://www.petmd.com http://www.petmd.com/rabbit/conditions/urinary/c_rb_hypercalciuria_urolithiasis  
Kidney stones form in the urinary tract due to the deposition of complex compounds containing calcium in the urine. In rabbits, all the calcium that is consumed is absorbed, and urine usually contains 45-60 percent calcium (other mammals’ urine contains only two percent calcium). Rabbits between three and five years of age are at higher risk.
 
Symptoms and Types
 
Symptoms will ultimately depend on the location, size, and amount of material in the bladder. Some of the more common symptoms associated with kidney stones inc ...read more]]> http://www.petmd.com/rabbit/conditions/urinary/c_rb_hypercalciuria_urolithiasis#comments Urinary Tue, 15 Jun 2010 20:22:49 +0000 10129 at http://www.petmd.com http://www.petmd.com/rabbit/conditions/urinary/c_rb_polyuria_polydipsia  
Polyuria is defined as greater than normal urine production, and polydipsia as greater than normal water consumption. The average normal water intake for rabbits is 50-150 mL/kg body weight daily. This is the general expectation of water consumption, since rabbits that are fed large amounts of water-containing foods, such as leafy vegetables, will drink less water than those that are on a dry diet of hay and pellets. Normal urine production is generally expected to be between 120-130 mL/kg body weight per day.
 
The balance between urine produ ...read more]]> http://www.petmd.com/rabbit/conditions/urinary/c_rb_polyuria_polydipsia#comments Urinary Mon, 24 May 2010 20:47:18 +0000 7416 at http://www.petmd.com http://www.petmd.com/rabbit/conditions/mouth/c_rb_ptyalism  
Commonly referred to as “rabbit slobber” or the “slobbers,” ptyalism is a condition that causes a rabbit to produce an excessive amount of saliva. This can often lead to dental problems and is recognized because of the moisture around the rabbit's face.
 
Symptoms
 
Rabbits with ptyalism are in constant pain, which may be exhibited as lethargy, a hunched posture, or an inability to groom. Rabbits may also develop hair loss, especially around the mouth or dewlap (skin flap under lower jaw), or form thickened skin folds. Other symptoms incl ...read more]]> http://www.petmd.com/rabbit/conditions/mouth/c_rb_ptyalism#comments Mouth Mon, 22 Sep 2008 17:09:12 +0000 537 at http://www.petmd.com http://www.petmd.com/rabbit/conditions/eyes/c_rb_anterior_uveitis  
The front of the eye is called the uvea — the dark tissue that contains blood vessels. When the uvea becomes inflamed the condition is referred to as anterior uveitis (literally, inflammation of the front of the eye). It is a common condition in rabbits of all ages.
 
Symptoms and Types
 
The most common symptom is a change of appearance in the affected eye(s). A physical examination of the rabbit can reveal further symptoms including swelling of the iris, white or pink nodules on the iris, eye related discomfort (such as sensitivity to ...read more]]> http://www.petmd.com/rabbit/conditions/eyes/c_rb_anterior_uveitis#comments Eyes Fri, 25 Jul 2008 19:15:26 +0000 299 at http://www.petmd.com http://www.petmd.com/rabbit/conditions/skin/c_rb_alopecia  
Alopecia is the complete or partial lack of hair in areas where hair is normally present. This common disorder in rabbits may often be the symptom of another cause, such as infection, trauma or immune disorder. For rabbits, there is no specific age, breed, or sex that is more susceptible to this disorder.
 
Symptoms and Types
 
The primary sign of alopecia is unusual hair loss. Symptoms may progress suddenly or slowly. The exact pattern and degree of hair loss may help determine the cause of alopecia, and identify the condition as primary (happened o ...read more]]> http://www.petmd.com/rabbit/conditions/skin/c_rb_alopecia#comments Skin Fri, 25 Jul 2008 17:56:21 +0000 297 at http://www.petmd.com http://www.petmd.com/rabbit/conditions/urinary/c_rb_lower_urinary_tract_infection  
Bladder Infections ussually occurs as a result of high concentrations and accumulation of bacteria in the bladder or urinary tract. However, for these bacteria to cause active an infection and thrive, a rabbit typically has to have some preexisting underlying factors such as a poor immune/defense system or high calcium levels in the urine.
 
Urinary tract infection is seen most commonly in middle-aged rabbits, around 3-5 years old. Obese rabbits with a sedentary lifestyle and poor nutrition are also at risk.
 
Symptoms and Typ ...read more]]> http://www.petmd.com/rabbit/conditions/urinary/c_rb_lower_urinary_tract_infection#comments Urinary Tue, 15 Jun 2010 20:51:25 +0000 10133 at http://www.petmd.com http://www.petmd.com/rabbit/conditions/ears/c_rb_ear_mites  
Ear mite infestation in rabbits is caused by the parasite Psoroptes cuniculiis. They may be found in only one ear, or in both, and in some cases may spread to the surrounding areas – the head, neck, abdomen, and genital regions. The main symptom is skin scales on the inner ear, which turn into larger, thicker crusted lesions with surrounding hair loss. If left untreated, the lesions can become infected, putting the inner ear at risk of infection and subsequent hearing loss.
 
No specific breed or age is at higher risk, but the risk of acquiring ear m ...read more]]> http://www.petmd.com/rabbit/conditions/ears/c_rb_ear_mites#comments Ears Fri, 14 May 2010 01:55:54 +0000 7357 at http://www.petmd.com http://www.petmd.com/rabbit/conditions/neurological/c_rb_encephalitis_meningoencephalitis  
Encephalitis is a diseased condition characterized by inflammation of the brain. It may be accompanied by spinal cord and/or meningeal involvement. When the meningea is involved, the condition is clinically referred to as meningoencephalitis – which is literally a combination of two known diseased states: meningitis - inflammation of the meninges, the protective membrane that covers the brain and spinal cord; and encephalitis – sudden and severe (acute) inflammation of the brain.
 
Inflammation is usually caused by an ...read more]]> http://www.petmd.com/rabbit/conditions/neurological/c_rb_encephalitis_meningoencephalitis#comments Neurological Fri, 14 May 2010 02:07:37 +0000 7358 at http://www.petmd.com http://www.petmd.com/rabbit/conditions/ears/c_rb_otitis_externa_media  
Inflammation of the external ear canal in rabbits is the term used to describe a group of symptoms or clinical signs that appear together, generally redness and swelling of the outer ear tissue. Clinically, this condition is known as otitis externa (otitis – inflammation of the ear; externa – external).
 
Otitis media – inflammation of the middle ear – often occurs as an extension of otitis externa. A middle ear i ...read more]]> http://www.petmd.com/rabbit/conditions/ears/c_rb_otitis_externa_media#comments Ears Tue, 22 Jun 2010 15:14:26 +0000 10179 at http://www.petmd.com http://www.petmd.com/rabbit/conditions/ears/c_rb_otitis_media_interna  
Otitis media and otitis interna are conditions in which there is inflammation of the middle and inner ear canals (respectively) in rabbits. It is most commonly caused by a bacterial infection that has spread from the external ear cavity into the inner ear. In the initial stages, the rabbit may feel nausea related to the ear infection and may demonstrate loss of appetite with refusal of food. It may also affect the rabbit's nose and the throat if the infection spreads.
 
The ears, the vestibular system (inner ear balance mechanism), the nerve ...read more]]> http://www.petmd.com/rabbit/conditions/ears/c_rb_otitis_media_interna#comments Ears Mon, 24 May 2010 19:52:14 +0000 7411 at http://www.petmd.com http://www.petmd.com/rabbit/conditions/skin/c_rb_pruritus  
Pruritis is the sensation that provokes the rabbit to scratch, rub, chew, or lick a certain area of its skin. This is often indicative of inflamed skin which can occur in any of the animal's many dermal layers. The condition also affects the systems used to regulate skin secretions.
 
Symptoms and Types
 

Scratching
Licking
Biting
Chewing
Hair loss
Self-injury
Skin inflammation (i.e., redness, swelling, rash)

 
Causes
 

...read more]]> http://www.petmd.com/rabbit/conditions/skin/c_rb_pruritus#comments Skin Tue, 12 Aug 2008 19:40:35 +0000 380 at http://www.petmd.com http://www.petmd.com/rabbit/conditions/urinary/c_rb_nephrolithiasis  
The kidneys serve several important functions for the body. Chief among them is the regulation of the body's blood pressure, regulation of electrolytes, and as a natural filter for the body's blood supply, removing waste materials and disposing of them through the urinary system. The ureters are a system of tubes that are connected to the kidneys and urinary bladder, carrying waste materials from the kidneys to the bladder, a hollow organ that serves as a storage receptacle for the waste fluid until it is released from the body via the ...read more]]> http://www.petmd.com/rabbit/conditions/urinary/c_rb_nephrolithiasis#comments Urinary Tue, 22 Jun 2010 15:02:53 +0000 10178 at http://www.petmd.com http://www.petmd.com/rabbit/conditions/urinary/c_rb_renal_failure  
Rabbits, much like humans, suffer from renal failure. This causes them to produce less urine and is infrequently due to cases of dehydration. There are two forms of renal failure: acute or chronic. Acute renal failure may occur suddenly because of an accumulation of toxins in the kidney(s), or as a result of an electrolyte imbalance. Chronic renal failure, on the other hand, progresses slowly in rabbits, sometimes over the course of several months.
 
Symptoms
 

Depression
Inability to eat
Fever
Diarrhe ...read more]]> http://www.petmd.com/rabbit/conditions/urinary/c_rb_renal_failure#comments Urinary Mon, 22 Sep 2008 17:34:21 +0000 540 at http://www.petmd.com http://www.petmd.com/rabbit/conditions/musculoskeletal/c_rb_lameness  
Lameness is defined as the disabillity of a limb to the point where movement is impaired. This is typically the result of a severe limb injury or as a side-effect of severe pain in the limbs. As the rabbit spends less time using the limb it may begin to favor other unaffected limbs. Moreover, the rabbit will appear to walk rather than hop, as it will not use its hind limbs to push off. The muscular, nervous, and skin systems may all be affected by lameness.
 
Symptoms and Types
 
In addition to limited range of motion in the joints, abnormal pos ...read more]]> http://www.petmd.com/rabbit/conditions/musculoskeletal/c_rb_lameness#comments Neurological Tue, 22 Jun 2010 02:39:36 +0000 10172 at http://www.petmd.com http://www.petmd.com/rabbit/conditions/mouth/c_rb_anorexia  
Anorexia is a loss of appetite. Pseudoanorexia, on the other hand, refers to animals that still have an appetite, but are unable to eat because they cannot chew or swallow food. Among this type of anorexia, dental disease is one of the most common causes in rabbits.
 
Symptoms and Types
 
There are various symptoms to look out for when you suspect anorexia or psuedoanorexia in your rabbit; among these:
 

Refusal to eat
Fecal pellets that are small in size or amount
Weight loss
Pain w ...read more]]> http://www.petmd.com/rabbit/conditions/mouth/c_rb_anorexia#comments Digestive Fri, 25 Jul 2008 18:50:18 +0000 298 at http://www.petmd.com http://www.petmd.com/rabbit/conditions/urinary/c_rb_urinary_incontinence  
Urinary incontinence is clinically described as a condition in which there is loss of voluntary control of urination, usually observed as accidental urine leakage. This is often caused by a loss of bladder tone (normal tension and sensitivity) or an obstruction of the bladder. For example, a partial obstruction may cause the urine to backflow into the bladder and lead to muscle tension and weakness due to bladder distension.
 
Urinary incontinence is most common in middle-aged rabbits (3-5 years old). And although it mainly affects the urinary an ...read more]]> http://www.petmd.com/rabbit/conditions/urinary/c_rb_urinary_incontinence#comments Urinary Tue, 15 Jun 2010 20:34:42 +0000 10131 at http://www.petmd.com http://www.petmd.com/rabbit/conditions/digestive/c_rb_cachexia  
Weight loss can occur in rabbits, but when they lose 10 percent or more of their normal body weight it becomes a major concern -- no longer an issue of decrease in fluid weight. It is especially worrisome when the weight loss accompanies muscle atrophy (or the wasting away of muscle mass). This state of poor health is usually referred to as cachexia, and it requires immediate medical attention.
 
Symptoms and Types
 
The symptoms the rabbit displays are dependent on the underlying cause of the condition. However, general signs will include thinness or a reduced ...read more]]> http://www.petmd.com/rabbit/conditions/digestive/c_rb_cachexia#comments Digestive Tue, 12 Aug 2008 19:13:56 +0000 377 at http://www.petmd.com http://www.petmd.com/rabbit/conditions/skin/c_rb_abscessation  
An abscess is a localized collection of pus contained within a capsule-like lump under the skin. Unlike those of cats and dogs, abscesses in rabbits usually do not burst and drain fluid. These abscesses can grow very quickly, often extending into the surrounding soft tissue and bone.
 
Abscesses are extremely common in pet rabbits and are the most common cause of swelling beneath the skin. There is no certain age or sex more susceptible to abscesses, although dwarf and lop-eared rabbits are believed to be predisposed to abscesses and dental disease.
 
...read more]]> http://www.petmd.com/rabbit/conditions/skin/c_rb_abscessation#comments Skin Fri, 25 Jul 2008 17:51:18 +0000 296 at http://www.petmd.com http://www.petmd.com/rabbit/conditions/cancer/c_rb_thymoma_lymphoma  
Thymoma and thymic lymphoma are forms of cancer that originate in the lining of the lungs, and are the two main causes for lung tumors and lung cancer in rabbits. They may occur alone and remain local, or they can affect many different organs of the rabbit's body as the cancer metastasizes, spreading to other tissue in the body. This type of cancer is the most common cause of masses in the mediastinum, or middle part of the body.
 
The causes for thymoma and thymic lymphoma are not well understood. There is no real data on the true number ...read more]]> http://www.petmd.com/rabbit/conditions/cancer/c_rb_thymoma_lymphoma#comments Cancer Fri, 14 May 2010 02:33:00 +0000 7361 at http://www.petmd.com http://www.petmd.com/rabbit/conditions/digestive/c_rb_trichobezoars  
A trichobezoar is a technical reference for a mat of hair that has been ingested, and that is often combined with thick or undigested food. It is located in the stomach and/or intestines.
 
It is not abnormal to find hair in a rabbit's stomach, since they self-groom, and this normally would not cause symptoms or be a cause for concern or a sign of disease. However, inspissated stomach contents (thick, dry, and less fluid and motile), which may include hair, is an abnormal finding and a cause for further inspection. The finding of inspissated contents or ...read more]]> http://www.petmd.com/rabbit/conditions/digestive/c_rb_trichobezoars#comments Digestive Fri, 14 May 2010 02:48:36 +0000 7363 at http://www.petmd.com http://www.petmd.com/rabbit/conditions/musculoskeletal/c_rb_neck_back_pain Neck and back pain are common causes for discomfort along the spinal column. For a rabbit that is affected by pain in the neck and/or back, the pain may originate in the epaxial muscles (in the back near the spinal axis), turnk muscles, or in the muscles along the vertebrae or spinal column.
 
Symptoms and Types
 
The symptoms and types of neck and back pain will depend largely on the underlying cause(s) of them. Disc diseases and other neurological problems may cause mild to severe neck and back pain, either of which can lead to partial (paresis) or full paralysis of the ...read more]]> http://www.petmd.com/rabbit/conditions/musculoskeletal/c_rb_neck_back_pain#comments Musculoskeletal Tue, 22 Jun 2010 14:55:29 +0000 10177 at http://www.petmd.com http://www.petmd.com/rabbit/conditions/digestive/c_rb_gastrointestinal_foreign_bodies  
Obstruction of the gastrointestinal tract occurs when a rabbit swallows large amounts of hair, fur, bedding, or other foreign objects that do not belong in the digestive tract. Usually, these materials are absorbed and excreted through the feces. But when the rabbit is fed a low fiber diet, the gastric muscles become less active, and a stasis, or inactivity, develops. As a result these foreign materials build up in the digestive tract, causing an obstruction. This low motility can also lead to dehydration of the abdominal contents, further dr ...read more]]> http://www.petmd.com/rabbit/conditions/digestive/c_rb_gastrointestinal_foreign_bodies#comments Digestive Tue, 15 Jun 2010 19:39:52 +0000 10125 at http://www.petmd.com http://www.petmd.com/rabbit/conditions/digestive/c_rb_obesity Excess body weight, or obesity, is as much a problem in rabbits as it is in any other species, especially household rabbits. Rabbits that are obese are not able to function normally because of their large size and body fat percentage.
 
Although certain breeds of rabbit, including the dwarf rabbit, are more at risk for obesity due to their shorter stature and inactivity, it occurs most often among middle-aged rabbits that are caged, and is independent of their gender.
 
Symptoms and Types
 
Typically rabbits prone to obesity tend to be more than 20 to 40 percent ov ...read more]]> http://www.petmd.com/rabbit/conditions/digestive/c_rb_obesity#comments Digestive Tue, 12 Aug 2008 19:20:59 +0000 378 at http://www.petmd.com http://www.petmd.com/rabbit/conditions/urinary/c_rb_dysuria_pollakiuria   
The urinary bladder normally serves as a reservoir for urine as it is excreted by the kidneys. The bladder stores the urine temporarily, periodically releasing/disposing the urine that is stored there. Inflammation of the lower urinary tract may decrease bladder tone and alter the structure of the bladder, resulting in sensations of bladder fullness, urgency, and pain. Dysuria (painful urination) and pollakiuria (frequent urination) are usually caused by lesions in the lower urinary tracts but may also be indicative of upper bladder disorders ...read more]]> http://www.petmd.com/rabbit/conditions/urinary/c_rb_dysuria_pollakiuria#comments Urinary Fri, 14 May 2010 01:47:16 +0000 7356 at http://www.petmd.com http://www.petmd.com/rabbit/conditions/neurological/c_rb_paresis_paralysis  
Paresis is defined as weakness of voluntary movement, or partial paralysis, while paralysis is the complete lack of voluntary movement.
 
Symptoms and Types
 
Four of the main types of motor dysfunction include:
 

Quadriparesis or tetraparesis - weakness of voluntary movements in all limbs
Quadriplegia or tetraplegia - absence of all voluntary limb movement
Paraparesis - weakness of voluntary movements in hind limbs
Paraplegia - absence of all voluntary movement in the hind li ...read more]]> http://www.petmd.com/rabbit/conditions/neurological/c_rb_paresis_paralysis#comments Neurological Mon, 24 May 2010 20:00:55 +0000 7412 at http://www.petmd.com http://www.petmd.com/rabbit/conditions/respiratory/c_rb_pneumonia  
Pneumonia occurs when there is a severe inflammation in the lungs leading to dysfunction of the entire respiratory system. This inflammation may be due to a bacterial, fungal, viral or parasitic infection, or because the rabbit has inhaled a foreign object into its lung.
 
Environmental factors, such as smoke or chemicals, an inability to swallow, coma, and dental disease may also lead to pneumonia.
 
Symptoms and Types
 
Some common signs seen in all four major types of pneumonia include:
 

Anorexia
Wei ...read more]]> http://www.petmd.com/rabbit/conditions/respiratory/c_rb_pneumonia#comments Respiratory Tue, 12 Aug 2008 19:28:50 +0000 379 at http://www.petmd.com http://www.petmd.com/rabbit/conditions/digestive/c_rb_poisoning  
Ingestion of toxic substances has the potential for affecting many of a rabbit's body systems. Intoxication, the clinical term given to poisoning, may be due to eating poisonous substances, such as poisonous plants, or chemicals like rodent poisons, and lead. Intoxication can also occur as the result of inadvertent administration of drugs. Many antibiotics that are commonly prescribed to other mammals can be fatal to rabbits. Rabbits may also have adverse reactions to many common topical products that are safe for use in other mammals, like cosmetic soaps, sham ...read more]]> http://www.petmd.com/rabbit/conditions/digestive/c_rb_poisoning#comments Digestive Mon, 24 May 2010 20:40:01 +0000 7415 at http://www.petmd.com http://www.petmd.com/rabbit/conditions/neurological/c_rb_lead_toxicity  
Exposure to high concentrations of lead and its compounds can lead to a toxic condition called heavy metal poisoning. Almost all of the rabit's body systems can be affected as a result of this type of poisoning, including the destruction of enzymes resposible for creating red blood cells, which can be fatal. In vast quantities, lead can also damage a rabbit's nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord.
 
Because rabbits have a tendency to lick and chew lead-containing household substances -- especially painted surfaces and occasionally metallic objects -- ...read more]]> http://www.petmd.com/rabbit/conditions/neurological/c_rb_lead_toxicity#comments Neurological Tue, 15 Jun 2010 20:43:41 +0000 10132 at http://www.petmd.com http://www.petmd.com/rabbit/conditions/neurological/c_rb_rabies Rabies is a very severe and almost always fatal viral disease that occurs commonly in warm-blooded animals, including rabbits. It typically results in the swelling of the brain and nervous system, which can result in paralysis, blindness, aggression, mood changes, and other symptoms.
 
Symptoms and Types
 
The signs and symptoms of this disease vary depending on the species affected, as rabies can affect other animals, including dogs and cats, and even people. It is actually not common among rabbits, but can affect them. Typically, the signs and symptoms include:
 
...read more]]> http://www.petmd.com/rabbit/conditions/neurological/c_rb_rabies#comments Neurological Tue, 12 Aug 2008 19:50:42 +0000 381 at http://www.petmd.com http://www.petmd.com/rabbit/conditions/eyes/c_rb_red_eye  

Red eye is a relatively common condition which causes swelling or irritation in the rabbit's eye or eyelid. This appearance of blood vessels in the eyeball can develop because of various reasons, including many systemic or body diseases. If your rabbit has red eye, seek veterinary advice immediately, as it is generally a secondary symptom to a more serious condition.
 
Symptoms and Types
 
The signs and symptoms of red eye and related conditions often depend on the underlying cause. For example, if the red eye is due to a dental disorde ...read more]]> http://www.petmd.com/rabbit/conditions/eyes/c_rb_red_eye#comments Eyes Tue, 12 Aug 2008 19:57:22 +0000 382 at http://www.petmd.com http://www.petmd.com/rabbit/conditions/respiratory/c_rb_pasteurellosis  
Infection with the Pasteurella multocida bacterium can result in a severe respiratory illness, generally characterized by nose infections, sinusitis, ear infections, conjunctivitis, pneumonia, and generalized infection of the blood, among other things. This condition is often referred to as the “snuffles” because of the snuffling breathing sound affected rabbits make. It may also cause abscesses in the subcutaneous (beneath the top layer of skin) tissues, bone, joints, or internal organs in rabbits. The pasteurella bacteria usually co-exi ...read more]]> http://www.petmd.com/rabbit/conditions/respiratory/c_rb_pasteurellosis#comments Respiratory Mon, 24 May 2010 20:24:44 +0000 7413 at http://www.petmd.com http://www.petmd.com/rabbit/conditions/nose/c_rb_nasal_discharge  
Nasal discharges in rabbits may be characterized by its mucosity (thick and slimy), serosity (thin, watery), or blood-tinged color. Sneezing in rabbits, meanwhile, is much like sneezing in humans. The rabbit has a reflexive “expulsion” of air via the nose or nostrils; it is also typically accompanied by nasal discharge.
 
Symptoms and Types
 
There are many different types of nasal discharge and accompanying signs and symptoms. Serious nasal discharge often involves only mild irritation, and generally follows allergies ...read more]]> http://www.petmd.com/rabbit/conditions/nose/c_rb_nasal_discharge#comments Respiratory Tue, 22 Jun 2010 14:48:43 +0000 10176 at http://www.petmd.com http://www.petmd.com/rabbit/conditions/neurological/c_rb_seizures  
Rabbits, much like humans, can suffer from epileptic seizures. Occurring when specific neurons in the brain reach a point of “hyper excitability.” This, in turn, can lead to bouts of involuntary body movement or function in the rabbit. You must be very careful with the rabbit during these periods of excited cerebral activity, as the seizures can cause brain damage.
 
Symptoms and Types
 
The signs and symptoms of seizures may depend on the cause for the seizure. Seizures can be due to an epileptic episode or may be non ...read more]]> http://www.petmd.com/rabbit/conditions/neurological/c_rb_seizures#comments Neurological Tue, 12 Aug 2008 20:16:23 +0000 383 at http://www.petmd.com http://www.petmd.com/rabbit/conditions/reproductive/c_rb_treponematosis  
Treponematosis is a sexually transmitted infection in rabbits that is caused by a bacterial organism called Treponema paraluis cuniculi. This bacterium is spread by sexual contact between rabbits, from direct contact with lesions from another animal, and from mother to newborn during development or birth. This bacterial organism is closely related in form and character to the human species Treponema pallidum (syphilis), but is confined to rabbits; it is not transmissible between species. If this infection is caught early, before systemic da ...read more]]> http://www.petmd.com/rabbit/conditions/reproductive/c_rb_treponematosis#comments Reproductive Fri, 14 May 2010 02:40:52 +0000 7362 at http://www.petmd.com http://www.petmd.com/rabbit/conditions/nose/c_rb_rhinitis_sinusitis  
Rhinitis in rabbits is an inflammation of the nasal mucous membrane. Sinusitis is quite similar; it is an inflammation of the air-filled spaces surrounding the rabbit's sinus or nasal cavity. Both of these conditions can cause respiratory problems and are often noticed because of the rabbit's excessive sneezing and nasal discharge.
 
Symptoms and Types
 
There are both acute and chronic forms of rhinitis and sinusitis in rabbits. These can either be contagious, non-infectious, associated with allergies or other conditions, or due to an abnormal or ...read more]]> http://www.petmd.com/rabbit/conditions/nose/c_rb_rhinitis_sinusitis#comments Respiratory Wed, 01 Oct 2008 20:08:40 +0000 605 at http://www.petmd.com http://www.petmd.com/rabbit/conditions/nose/c_rb_stertor_stridor  
Did you know rabbits snore? Even occurring while they are awake, it is generally a result of blockage in the animal's airway. Typically referred to as stertor and stridor, it can also occur if nasal tissues are weak or flaccid or from excessive fluid in the passages.
 
Symptoms
 
The symptoms, signs and types of stertor and stridor depend on the underlying cause and severity of the condition. For example, an extremely stressed rabbit or a rabbit with a lowered immune system may sound excessively hoarse while breathing. Other typical signs for rabbits ...read more]]> http://www.petmd.com/rabbit/conditions/nose/c_rb_stertor_stridor#comments Respiratory Wed, 01 Oct 2008 20:34:23 +0000 608 at http://www.petmd.com http://www.petmd.com/rabbit/conditions/skin/c_rb_ulcerative_pododermatitis  
Ulcerative pododermatitis, or bumblefoot, is a bacterial infection of the skin; specifically, the skin of the back feet and hocks -- the part of the back leg that rests on the ground when a rabbit sits. Because of the location and characteristic symptoms, this condition is also referred to as “sore hocks.”
 
If left untreated, ulcerative pododermatitis can deteriorate to include deep pyoderma -- severe inflammation with pus filled lesions, and ...read more]]> http://www.petmd.com/rabbit/conditions/skin/c_rb_ulcerative_pododermatitis#comments Skin Wed, 19 May 2010 19:49:13 +0000 7377 at http://www.petmd.com http://www.petmd.com/rabbit/conditions/musculoskeletal/c_rb_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 lim ...read more]]> http://www.petmd.com/rabbit/conditions/musculoskeletal/c_rb_spondylosis_deformans#comments Musculoskeletal Wed, 01 Oct 2008 20:20:02 +0000 607 at http://www.petmd.com http://www.petmd.com/rabbit/conditions/mouth/c_rb_tooth_root   
Tooth root abscesses in rabbits, formally known as apical abscesses, are defined as pus-filled capsules or pockets within the animal's tooth or mouth. These abscesses are painful for the animal and tend to grow within inflamed areas of the gums, where infection is more likely to spread.
 
Symptoms and Types
 
Some common signs include:
 

Oral cavity
Loose teeth
Abnormal teeth or bite alignment (cheek teeth elongation)
Overgrowth of the incisor teeth (used to grasp and bit foo ...read more]]> http://www.petmd.com/rabbit/conditions/mouth/c_rb_tooth_root#comments Mouth Tue, 12 Aug 2008 20:22:10 +0000 384 at http://www.petmd.com http://www.petmd.com/rabbit/conditions/reproductive/c_rb_pyometra  
The medical term for an infection in the rabbit's uterus is pyometra. This and other reproductive (or non-neoplastic endometrial) disorders, including the growth and bloating of the uterus, are common among small animals like rabbits and ferrets.
 
Symptoms
 
Typically, a rabbit with pyometra will have blood in its urine originating from the uterus. It may come intermittently or follow the animal’s reproductive cycles. Some other symptoms include:
 

Paleness
Increasingly aggressive behavior
Signs of a system ...read more]]> http://www.petmd.com/rabbit/conditions/reproductive/c_rb_pyometra#comments Reproductive Mon, 22 Sep 2008 17:26:38 +0000 539 at http://www.petmd.com http://www.petmd.com/rabbit/conditions/urinary/c_rb_urinary_tract_obstruction  
  
Urinary tract obstructions, which restricts the flow of urine from the kidneys, is a common condition in rabbits. It can be due to a variety of reasons, including urinary tract infections (UTIs) or deeper bladder infections.
 
Symptoms and Types
 
Some rabbits will not have any signs or symptoms of problems if they have a urinary tract obstruction, but most will. Depending on the severity of the condition, most rabbit owners will report the following signs and symptoms:
 

Frequent urination
...read more]]> http://www.petmd.com/rabbit/conditions/urinary/c_rb_urinary_tract_obstruction#comments Urinary Fri, 21 May 2010 02:20:45 +0000 7381 at http://www.petmd.com http://www.petmd.com/rabbit/conditions/reproductive/c_rb_vaginal_discharge Vaginal discharge is not a common or normal occurrence in rabbits, and is normally taken to be a sign of infection or illness. Vaginal discharge includes any substance that comes from the vulvar labia, or vaginal area, including fresh blood or blood tinged fluid. Vaginal discharge is almost always considered abnormal, except in cases where the rabbit is discharging postpartum fluids -- the fluids that leave the uterus after birth.
 
Symptoms and Types
 
The signs, symptoms and types of vaginal discharge vary from rabbit to rabbit and may vary according to the sexual stat ...read more]]> http://www.petmd.com/rabbit/conditions/reproductive/c_rb_vaginal_discharge#comments Reproductive Fri, 21 May 2010 02:42:57 +0000 7382 at http://www.petmd.com http://www.petmd.com/rabbit/conditions/neurological/c_rb_facial_nerve_paresis_paralysis  
Facial nerve paresis and paralysis is a disorder of the facial cranial nerve — a nerve that originates in the brain (as opposed to the spine). Malfunction of this nerve can result in paralysis or weakness of the muscles of the ears, eyelids, lips, and nostrils. Moroever, an inability to move the eyes and facial muscles may result in a decreased secretion of tears, leading to additional pathology of the eyes.
 
In rabbits, facial nerve paralysis sometimes occurs after a dental or ear infection. Dwarf breeds and lop ear breeds tend ...read more]]> http://www.petmd.com/rabbit/conditions/neurological/c_rb_facial_nerve_paresis_paralysis#comments Neurological Mon, 07 Jun 2010 15:22:19 +0000 10087 at http://www.petmd.com