Pet Health And Care >>  Rabbit Health >>  Rabbit abscess  
 
Rabbit abscess

Rabbit Abscess

An abscess is basically defined as a pus filled cavity that is usually surrounded by a covering of thickened inflamed tissue formed on account of a bacterial infection.



Rabbit abscess can be formed by various bacteria that require oxygen to thrive such as Pseudomonas, Pasteurella multocida and also by those bacteria that do not require oxygen to survive. An abscess in rabbits can be formed in almost any organ such as lungs, liver, heart, kidneys etc.



in the rabbit’s body as well as its tooth roots, skin and bone.

One of the most common of all rabbit abscess causes are bite wounds which if untreated get infected and infect the tear ducts and tooth roots.



Facial abscesses in rabbits are formed because of dental disease. Similarly tear duct abscess is formed due to the overly elongated upper incisor tooth that tends to block the tear duct. The fluid that accumulates in these areas is ideal for the bacteria to multiply thus leading to the formation of an abscess. Rabbit abscess treatment is tricky because the pus that is found in the abscess tends to be very thick and does not easily drain out once the abscess is opened thereby making the thorough cleaning of the abscess difficult. Secondly the veterinarian will also have to look out for tracts or finger like projections that tend to form in the tissue surrounding the abscess which lead to the formation of new abscesses. If these tracts are not removed then the chances of the abscess returning are very high. Rabbit abscess treatment thus basically includes the surgical removal of any affected tissues, opening the abscess surgically followed by flushing the affected area with antimicrobial solutions. Additionally the rabbit is also provided fluids and supportive nutrition.

Rabbit tooth abscess symptoms that are commonly observed are redness, swelling, irritation, moistened fur, persistent bad breath, facial swelling and loss of appetite or overall depression. Rabbit abscess can be prevented by ensuring that the rabbit is provided with a diet that is wholesome and healthy and is supplemented with plenty of exercise and a safe and clean environment. It is always important to check the rabbit thoroughly and any lumps that may have been discovered should be reported to the veterinarian for further investigation immediately. If a rabbit is already infected with an abscess then it should be kept in isolation and away from the other rabbits if any. Fecal and urine output along with weight of the infected rabbit should be monitored daily.

 
  Submitted on May 20, 2010  
 
 
 

Explore Pet Categories