Rabbits Flashcards
RB01-10
1
Q
what is the scientific name for rabbits as a species
A
Oryctolagus cuniculus
2
Q
what is the average lifespan of rabbits
A
8-12 years
3
Q
name the 4 groups of rabbit breeds
A
- fancy
- lop
- normal fur
- rex
4
Q
what percent of the rabbit bodyweight is the skeleton?
A
7-8%
5
Q
what percent of the rabbit body weight is the muscles?
A
50%
6
Q
name the vertebral formula for rabbits
A
C7, T12 (13), L7, S4, C15-16
7
Q
how many digits does the forelimb of a rabbit have?
A
5
8
Q
how many digits does the hindlimb of a rabbit have?
A
4
9
Q
what is the gait of a rabbit at rest?
A
plantigrade
10
Q
what is the gait of a rabbit when running?
A
digitgrade
(tippy toes)
11
Q
what type of lip do rabbits have?
A
cleft lip with small oral commissure
12
Q
how many teeth do rabbits have?
A
28
13
Q
name the type of tooth
‘open rooted’
no anatomical roots, continuously growing and erupting
A
elodont
14
Q
name the type of tooth
long-crowned teeth
A
hypsodont
15
Q
name the type of tooth
differently shaped incisors and molars
A
heterodont
16
Q
what is the growth rate of rabbit incisors?
A
3mm per week
17
Q
what is the growth rate of rabbit cheek teeth?
A
3mm per month
18
Q
how often do rabbits housed outdoors moult?
A
twice yearly
19
Q
name the 3 locations of scent glands in rabbits
A
- under chin
- inguinal
- anal
20
Q
name the rabbit scent gland most prone to impaction
A
inguinal
21
Q
why are rabbits prone to pododermatitis?
A
no foot pads
22
Q
where is the blind spot for rabbits?
A
beneath the mouth
(under the chin)
23
Q
what gland is located just behind the third eyelid of rabbits?
A
Harderian gland
24
Q
what is the blink rate for rabbits?
A
10-12 times per hour
25
what is the shape of a rabbit's pupil
spherical
26
what percent of the globe is the rabbit's cornea?
30%
27
do rabbits have a tapetum lucidum?
no
28
where does the optic disc in rabbits lie?
above the midline of the eye
29
what direction do the retinal vessels of rabbits spread out?
horizontally
30
what are the prominent photoreceptors of rabbits?
rods
31
this organ produces T-cells, plays a vital role in immune function & persists into adulthood in rabbits
thymus
32
are rabbits able to vomit?
no
33
what should the pH of an adult rabbit's stomach be?
1-2
34
what is the pH of a rabbit's stomach pre-weaning?
5-6.5
35
where does fermentation in the rabbit occur?
caecum
36
what type of bacteria are present in the rabbit caecum for fermentation
anaerobe gram negative Bacteriodes sp.
37
which VFA is produced the most by caecal fermentation in the rabbit?
acetate (60-80%)
38
what percent of total (maintenance) energy requirements of a rabbit are obtained from caecal fermentation?
up to 40%
39
name the 3 parts the rabbit colon can be divided into
1. proximal colon
2. fusus coli
3. distal colon
40
which part of the rabbit colon can be thought of as the 'sorting' zone for indigestive and digestible fibre
proximal colon
41
# name the part of the rabbit proximal colon
muscular bands
taeniae coli
42
# name the part of the rabbit proximal colon
numerous lateral pouches
haustra
43
# name the part of the rabbit colon
5-8mm thickened circular muscle;
autonomic control - 'pacemaker';
under the influence of aldosterone and prostaglandin;
regulates the passage of ingesta into the colon
fusus coli
44
name the 3 types of colonic motility contractions controlled by the fusus coli
1. haustral
2. peristaltic
3. segmentation
45
# name the part of the rabbit colon
unhaustrated and no taeniae;
contains numerous goblet cells which produce mucous;
visually looks like small intestine (grossly)
distal colon
46
name the two types of faeces produced by rabbits
1. hard pellets (indigestible)
2. caecotrophs (nutrients)
47
# name the type of rabbit faeces
fluid and soft particles;
highly nutritive (amino acids, VFAs, vit B & K);
coated in mucous;
expelled as soft paste in 'honey comb';
pass rapidly through colon to the anus - eaten directly from anus
caecotrophs
48
how many lobes does a rabbit liver have?
4
49
when is sexual maturity reached for female rabbits?
4-5 months
50
when is sexual maturity reached for male rabbits
5-7 months
51
when is the breeding season for rabbits?
february to october
52
how long is rabbit gestation period?
31-32 days
53
when can pregnancy be diagnosed in rabbits
from 14 days
54
what type of placenta do rabbits have?
haemochorial
55
how long do rabbit kits suckle per day?
only 3-5 minutes per day
56
when do rabbits wean?
4-6 weeks
57
when do the testes descend for male rabbits?
approximately 10 weeks of age
58
# start of RB02
are rabbits cats or dogs?
no, they're a bit different
59
name the 6 steps of a clinical exam for a rabbit
1. demeanour
2. TPR
3. nose to tail
4. ventrum
5. dental and ear exam
6. weight
60
name 4 things to examine at a distance in a rabbit for demeanor part of clinical exam
1. resp rate and character
2. mentation
3. posture
4. activity prior to examination
61
name 3 things that should be auscultated on a rabbit
1. heart rate and rhythm
2. resp rate
3. gut sounds
62
what is the normal resp rate of a rabbit
30-60 bpm
63
what is the normal heart rate of a rabbit
180-300 bpm
64
what is the normal temperature of rabbits
38.5-40 C
65
how many gut sounds should be heard per minute in a rabbit?
2-4 per minute
66
name 3 places to auscultate a rabbit for respiratory
1. trachea
2. thorax (ventrally and dorsally)
3. sinuses
67
what pulses should be palpated in a rabbit?
1. femoral
2. auricular
68
what eye reflex should be tested in a rabbit?
palpebral reflex
69
what eye reflex does a rabbit NOT have?
palpebral response
70
how should hydration status be assessed in rabbits?
eye position
(sunken = dehydrated)
| (more reliable than skin tent)
71
what 4 aspects of the incisors should be inspected during a clinical exam of a rabbit?
1. angle
2. malloclusion
3. ribbing
4. fractures
72
name the 4 parts of the rabbit head that should be palpated/inspected during a clinical exam
1. eyes
2. nose
3. jaw
4. ears
73
name the 5 parts of the rabbit body that should be palpated/inspected during a clinical exam
1. lymph nodes
2. palpate limbs
3. thoracic compliance
4. abdominal palpation
5. skin and fur coat
74
name the 5 lymph nodes in a rabbit that should be palpated during a clinical exam
(not all palpable if no injury or disease present)
1. popliteal
2. prescapular
3. submandibular
4. inguinal
5. axillary
75
where does the stomach sit in the rabbit abdomen?
should be soft and compressible
cranial LHS of abdomen
76
where can the caecum be palpated in the rabbit abdomen?
should be large and soft
ventrally midline or to RHS
77
where can the colon be palpated in the rabbit abdomen?
should feel small hard faecal pellets
dorsal, mid-caudal abdomen
78
# name the rabbit ectoparasite
'walking dandruff'
dorsum, superficial, non-burrowing mite;
zoonotic;
readily diagnosed
all incontacts treated
Cheyletiella parasitovorax
| (fur mite)
79
name 5 things that should be assessed on a ventrum exam of a rabbit
1. claw length
2. pododermatitis check
3. mammary gland palpation
4. general hygiene
5. sexing
80
at what point during the clinical exam of a rabbit should the otoscopic exam of ears and teeth be performed?
last!
81
what 3 prominences should be palpated to determine a rabbit's BCS
1. ribs
2. dorsal spinous processes
3. pelvic bones
82
# start of RB03
what 3 diseases are rabbits vaccinated against?
1. Myxomatosis
2. Rabbit Haemorrhage Disease strain 1
3. Rabbit Haemorhagic Disease strain 2
83
# name the disease vaccinated against in rabbits
pox virus;
fatal disease of the European rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculi);
rapidly spread and endemic in UK since late 1950s
Myxomatosis
| (Myxoma virus)
84
how is myxomatosis spread to rabbits?
insect vectors
(rabbit flea, mosquito, mites)
85
name 6 clinical signs of myxomatosis in rabbits
1. swelling of eyelids and genitalia
2. milky ocular discharge
3. lethargy and depression
4. pyrexia and anorexia
5. general facial swelling
6. death within 14d
86
# name the disease vaccinated against in rabbits
Lagovirus, family Calicivirus;
usually fatal to rabbits;
2 strains
Rabbit Haemorrhagic Disease
87
# name the strain of Rabbit Haemorrhagic Disease
bleeding syndrome;
spreads via rabbits, rabbit products, vehicle wheels, shipping containers;
quick disease - hyperacute or subacute
strain 1
88
name 2 clinical signs of hyperacute form of strain 1 Rabbit Haemorrhagic Disease
1. dead
2. blood from nose or mouth
89
name 4 clinical signs of subacute form of strain 1 Rabbit Haemorrhagic Disease
1. pale mucous membranes
2. weak and collapsed
3. progressive neurological signs
4. rapidly leads to death
90
what is the most common clinical sign of strain 1 Rabbit Haemorrhagic Disease
acute haemorrhage - haemabdomen
91
what is the target site of strain 1 Rabbit Haemorrhagic Disease
liver
92
name 5 sequelae to replication of strain 1 Rabbit Haemorrhagic Disease virus to high titre levels in the liver
1. acute hepatic necrosis
2. fulminant (sudden) liver failure
3. DIC
4. hepatic encephalopathy
5. nephrosis
93
name 2 signs of strain 1 Rabbit Haemorrhagic Disease on haematology
1. leukopenia
2. moderate reduction in thrombocytes
94
name 4 elevated liver enzymes seen on serum biochemistry in a rabbit with strain 1 Rabbit Haemorrhagic Disease
1. ALT
2. AST
3. AP
4. GGT
95
name 2 differential diagnoses for strain 1 Rabbit Haemorrhagic Disease based on serum biochemistry: elevated liver enzymes
1. liver lobe torsion
2. hepatic coccidiosis
96
name 5 ways strain 2 Rabbit Haemorrhagic Disease can be spread
1. direct contact between rabbits (faeces, urine, resp secretions)
2. vectors (biting insects, birds)
3. hay and forage
4. fomites/objects
5. predator faeces with live virus still active
97
how long does strain 2 Rabbit Haemorrhagic Disease virus remain actove on fomites at 22 degrees C
120 days
(4 months)
98
how long does strain 2 Rabbit Haemorrhagic Disease virus remain active on fomites at 4 degrees C
more than 225 days
(7.5 months)
99
what is the incubation time of strain 1 Rabbit Haemorrhagic Disease
1-2 days
100
what is the incubation time of strain 2 Rabbit Haemorrhagic Disease
3-9 days
101
name 4 clinical signs of strain 2 Rabbit Haemorrhagic Disease
1. GI stasis
2. weight loss
3. lethargy
4. non-specific liver signs (jaundice)
| (wide range)
102
name 5 types of supportive care that can be given to a rabbit with strain 2 Rabbit Haemorrhagic Disease;
if given promplty can result in lower mortality rate
1. fluid therapy
2. nutritional support
3. gut stasis support
4. blood transfusion
5. warming
103
how much blood do rabbits have?
70 mL/kg
104
how much blood can you safely take from a rabbit to use for a transfusion?
7 mL/kg
(10%)
105
name 3 requirements of a blood donor rabbit
1. healthy
2. medium to large size
3. vaccinated
106
name 3 diseases a rabbit must be free from in order to be a blood donor
1. Encephalitozoan cuniculi
2. Rabbit Haemorrhagic Disease
3. Myxomatosis
107
what should collected blood from a rabbit for a blood transfusion be mixed with?
anticoagulant - citrate phosphate dextrose (CPD)
(0.14mL per mL of blood)
108
how long can rabbit blood be stored for transfusions at 4-6 degrees C?
28-35 days
109
name 3 ways to confirm the diagnosis of Rabbit Haemorrhagic Disease at PM
1. liver appearance (pale, swollen, focal haemorrhage)
2. histopathology
3. PCR testing (blood, faeces, oral/rectal swabs, intestinal contents)
110
name the triple vaccine that can be given to rabbits against Myxomatosis and strain 1 & 2 of Rabbit Haemorrhagic Disease
Novibac Myxo-RHD Plus
111
what is the duration of immunity for Novibac Myxo-RHD Plus vaccine for rabbits
1 year
112
how long does it take for the onset of immunity from Novibac Myxo-RHD Plus vaccine for rabbits
3 weeks
113
when can rabbits be vaccinated with Novibac Myxo-RHD Plus
from 5 wks of age
114
how long should new rabbits be quarantined to prevent spread of infection
| (in face of a disease outbreak)
4 weeks
(enough time for clinical signs to show if infected)
115
what disinfectant should be used in the face of an outbreak of RHD (rabbit haemorrhagic disease)?
Virkon
116
what is the species of fleas that affect rabbits?
feed on blood, can jump from host to host, can live temporarily in environment
Spilopsyllus cuniculi
117
how to diagnose fleas on a rabbit?
1. visualisation of fleas
2. visualisation of flea dirt (wet paper towel)
118
name 2 flea treatments for rabbits
1. Selamectin (Revolution/Stronghold)
2. Imidacloprid (Advantge)
119
what flea treatment can be used on dogs and cats but CANNOT be used on rabbits - causes death!
Fipronil (Frontline)
120
name 2 species of fur mites affecting rabbits
1. Cheyletiella parasitovorax
2. Leporacarus gibbus
121
how to diagnose mites on a rabbit?
tape strip (microscope examination)
122
what is the treatment for mites on rabbits?
Ivermectin - 2 treatments 14 days apart
123
what is the species of ear mite affecting rabbits?
severe pruritis, hyperaemia of pinnae, thick crust formation, can spread to face and neck, secondary bacterial infections
Psoroptes cuniculi
124
name 4 treatments that should be given to a rabbit with ear mites
1. Ivermectin (2 treatments 14d apart)
2. soften scabs (vaseline)
3. anti-inflammatory
4. clip hind toenails (to reduce self trauma)
125
name 3 conditions that predispose a rabbit to fly strike
1. obesity
2. dental disease
3. musculoskeletal disease
126
name 4 common attractants for flies causing fly strike in rabbits
1. uneaten caecotrophs
2. urine scalding
3. unclean enclosure
4. incr sedentary time
127
name 2 topical fly deterrents that can be used in addition to hygiene, etc to help prevent fly strike in rabbits
1. permethrin
2. cyromazine
128
what is the wormer of choice for rabbits if needed (not common)
Fenbendazole
129
from what age can an ovariohysterectomy be performed in a female rabbit
from 5-6 months of age
130
name 4 reasons to spay female rabbits
1. health (uterine cancer)
2. prevent pregnancy
3. pervent pseudopregnancy
4. behavioural
131
name 3 reasons for castrating a male rabbit
1. prevent breeding
2. health
3. potentially imporves negative behaviours
132
at what age should a male rabbit be castrated?
5-6 months is ideal;
possible from 4 months
133
# start of RB04
134
name 3 sites that can be used in rabbits for intravenous catheter placement
1. marginal ear vein
2. lateral saphenous vein
3. cephalic vein
135
name 3 sites for intraosseus catheters in rabbits
1. proximal tibia
2. proximal femur
3. proximal humerus
136
name 2 indications for intaosseus catheters in rabbits
1. admin of fluids and drugs when IV access is limited or non-existent
2. bone marrow biopsy
137
name 4 sites for blood sample collection in rabbits (in order of preference)
1. lateral saphenous vein
2. marginal ear vein
3. jugular vein
4. cephalic vein
138
how long must you hold pressure on the lateral saphenous vein of a rabbit following blood collection to reduce risk of haematoma
1 min
(2 min for white rabbits)
139
name 3 indications for nasolacrimal duct cannulation in rabbits
1. facilitate flushing of nasolacrimal duct (blockage or infection)
2. instil topical medication into nasolacrimal duct
3. perform contrast dacryocystography
140
what type of local anaesthetic should be used prior to performing nasolacrimal duct cannulation in a rabbit
Proxymetacaine drops
141
name the 5 steps of nasolacrimal duct cannulation in a rabbit
1. assistant holds eyelid open
2. gently tent lower lid to open duct entrance
3. insert cannula medially
4. flush with sterile saline in a 1mL syringe
5. watch for appearance of fluid at nose (licking)
142
name 4 methods of urine collection from a rabbit
1. free catch
2. manually express bladder (care to prevent rupture)
3. cystocentesis
4. catheterisation
143
how should a male rabbit be positioned for the insertion of a urinary catheter
on side or back
144
how should a female rabbit be positioned for the insertion of a urinary catheter
ventral recumbency
145
name the 3 most common findings of a faecal analysis in rabbits
1. oxyurids (pinworm)
2. coccidiosis
3. Saccharomyces yeasts
146
what 3 things should rabbit faeces be assessed for as part of any clinical exam/history taking
1. size
2. quantity
3. fibrous content
147
how much should F10 be diluted when using in a nebuliser for rabbits
1:250
148
how much should enrofloxacin be diluted when using a nebuliser for rabbits
1:10
149
where to give a subcutaneous injection to a rabbit?
scruff
150
name 2 sites for intramuscular injections for rabbits
1. epaxial (lumbar) muscles
2. quadriceps muscle
151
what volume can be given IM to a 2.5kg rabbit
0.5-1 mL
152
what volume can be given SQ to a 2.5kg rabbit (over 2 sites)
50mL
153
# start of RB05
how many teeth do rabbits have?
28
154
how many incisors do rabbits have?
6
155
how many cheek teeth do rabbits have?
22
156
what is the dental formula for rabbits
I 2/1, C 0/0, PM 3/2, M 3/3
157
# name the type of tooth
open rooted
elodont
158
# name the type of tooth
long-crowned teeth
hypsodont
159
# name the type of tooth
differently shaped teeth - incisor v. cheek teeth
heterodont
160
# name the type of rabbit tooth
chisel-shaped;
ribbed appearance;
used for slicing, cutting and chopping food;
constant growth (3mm per week);
very long curving tooth roots
incisors
161
# name the type of rabbit tooth
anisognatism (maxillary teeth wider apart than mandibular teeth);
only one side in occlusion at one time;
oblique angle at tooth surface;
disparity in number (6 upper, 5 lower)
cheek teeth
162
how long per day should a rabbit spend eating/grazing?
8 hours
163
how much crude fibre should rabbits have in their diet?
20-25%
164
# name the type of fibre
broken down into energy products
digestible
165
# name the type of fibre
acts to stimulate GI motility
indigestible
166
name the 3 reasons fibre is needed in a rabbits diet
1. allows 'normal behaviour'
2. promotes GIT health
3. dental exercise
167
which type of fibre promotes peristalsis in rabbits?
indigestible
168
name the 3 broad categories of dental disease in rabbits
1. acquired (most common)
2. congenital
3. traumatic
169
summarise how inadequate wear leadds to acquired dental disease
decr wear = elongation of teeth = incr occlusal contact = incr intrusive pressure
170
name the 2 most common locations for spurs to form on rabbit cheek teeth with acquired dental disease due to inadequate wear
1. lingual surface of mandibular teeth
2. buccal surface of maxillary teeth
171
extension of the reserved crown into the jaw of the rabbit can lead to an infection or abscess in what location if maxilla teeth are affected?
retrobulbar
172
extension of the reserved crown into the jaw of the rabbit can lead to an infection or abscess in what location if mandibular teeth are affected?
ventral/lateral chin
173
what is the most common type of congenital dental disease in rabbits?
incisor malloclusion
174
at what age does congenital incisor malloclusion in rabbits usually present by?
8-10 weeks
175
what is the most common traumatic dental disease in rabbits?
fractured incisor(s)
176
what secondary problems can traumatic fractured incisors in rabbits lead to?
1. overgrowths
2. malloclusion
177
name the 5 steps of a dental clinical exam of a rabbit
1. jaw palpation
2. lateral jaw motion
3. incisor evaluation
4. cheek teeth exam
5. cotton tip test
178
name 9 specific signs of dental disease in rabbits
1. inappetance
2. dysphagia
3. hypersalivation
4. halitosis
5. facial swelling
6. epiphora
7. masseter muscle atrophy
8. percieved polydipsia
9. teeth grinding
179
name 4 non-specific signs of dental disease in rabbits
1. GI stasis
2. weight loss
3. unkept coat
4. dirty bottom
180
what 2 things is radiography (or CT scanning) essential to assess with dental disease in rabbits
1. reserve AND clinical crown
2. surrounding bone
181
name the preferred views to take for rabbit dental radiographs
(if flat rate)
1. R + L lateral obliques
2. R + L lateral
3. DV
4. rostrocaudal
182
name the 2 most important views to take for rabbit dental radiographs
(if charged per plate)
1. R + L obliques
2. DV
183
should the clinical crown be longer on the upper or lower cheek teeth of rabbits?
lower
184
how often must you rest the mouth from the mouth gag during a rabbit dental?
every 5 minutes
(use a timer)
185
what should the approximate height of the maxillary crowns be in a rabbit?
2-3 mm
186
what should the approximate height of the mandibular crowns be in a rabbit?
3-4 mm
187
name 3 reasons rasping should be avoided during a correctional burring dental of a rabbit
1. weakens periodontal ligament
2. time consuming
3. increased risk of soft tissue trauma
188
what should be done to rabbit teeth instead of rasping?
burring
189
each mandibular tooth of a rabbit wears against how many maxillary teeth?
2
190
if incisor shortening is not done at frequent intervals for a rabbit what can it lead to?
secondary cheek teeth issues
191
how long does it take for incisor reshaping in rabbits?
2-3 weeks of treatment
192
how often should rabbit incisors be burred while trying to reshape?
every 3-4 days
193
name 3 pieces of equiment/materials needed for incisor reshaping in rabbits?
1. 5 mL syringe with cut out area
2. burr
3. wet cotton buds
194
name the 2 steps of incisor reshaping in a rabbit using a burr
1. burr groove out of caudal aspect of upper incisors
2. create a reverse occlusal angle to allow lower incisor to 'hook' behind the upper incisor
195
when should results of incisor reshaping in rabbits be seen?
if not, this is when removal should be considered
2 weeks
196
name 3 advantages of incisor removal in rabbits
1. reduces risk of developing cheek teeth disease
2. stops need for incisor burring every 3-6wks
3. they are no help to rabbit once 'wonky'
197
name 2 disadvantages of incisor removal in rabbits
1. general anaesthetic needed
2. teeth can grow back
198
name the 4 pieces of equipment needed for incisor removal in a rabbit
1. incisor luxator
2. long needle (pre-shaped)
3. iodine
4. patience
199
name 2 incisor nerve blocks for rabbits
1. infraorbital nerve
2. mental nerve
200
# name the incisor nerve block for rabbits
maxillary branch of trigeminal nerve;
upper incisors, upper lips;
arises from the infraorbital foramen
infraorbital nerve
201
# name the incisor nerve block for rabbits
ventral and lateral aspect of lips, mandible and lower incisors;
exits the mental foramen
mental nerve
202
name 6 possible complications of incisor removal in a rabbit
1. tooth fracture
2. extraction site infection
3. haemorrhage
4. incisor regrowth
5. GI stasis
6. jaw fracture
203
# start of RB06
what type of fibre generally travels down the central lumen of the colon in the rabbit and helps stimulate peristalsis;
normograde movement
indigestible fibre
204
what type of fibre stays in the periphery of the haustrae of the proximal colon in the rabit?
sent retrograde back to the caecum to undergo fermentation
digestible fibre
205
name 4 non-specific signs of gut stasis in a rabbit
1. hypothermia
2. anorexia
3. lethargy
4. weight loss
206
# name the rabbit disease
abnormalities in myenteric neuronal or gastric smooth muscle function or contractility leading to the slowing or stopping of ingested food passing through the GIT
gut stasis
207
name the 6-fold treatment approach to gut stasis in rabbits
1. fluid therpay
2. analgesic
3. pro-kinetic therapy
4. nutritional support
5. calm environment
6. exercise
208
what type of fluid is usually given to rabbits with gut stasis
crystalloid - Hartmann's
209
what is the maintenance rate of fluids for rabbits
4 mL/kg/h
210
name 2 analgesia options for rabbits with gut stasis
1. NSAIDs (meloxicam)
2. opioids (buprenorphine, methadone)
| (avoid NSAIDs if dehydrated or diarrhoeic)
211
name 4 prokinetic options for a rabbit with gut stasis
1. Cisapride
2. Metaclopramide
3. Domperidone
4. Ranitidine
212
# name the prokinetic
0.5 mg/kg q12h per os;
promotes gastric emptying;
increases small intestine motility;
increases colonic motility
Cisapride
213
# name the prokinetics
0.5 mg/kg q12h per os;
upper GI tract stimulant
Metaclopramide;
Domperidone
214
# name the prokinetic
4 mg/kg q12h per os;
H2 antagonist;
gastric prokinetic qualities;
gut protectant
ranitidine
215
name 2 reasons exercise is a necessary part of the treatment for gut stasis in rabbits
1. help promote peristalsis
2. assist with gas dissipation in the GIT
216
# as a general rule for a barium contrast study:
how long does it take for stomach emptying of a rabbit
15-30 min
217
# as a general rule for a barium contrast study of a rabbit:
how long does it take to reach the caecum
40-60min
218
# as a general rule for a barium contrast study of a rabbit:
how long does it take for caecal fill
1-3h
219
# as a general rule for a barium contrast study of a rabbit:
how long does it take for the contrast to reach the colon
4-6h (5-12h)
220
when should radiographs be taken for a barium contrast study of a rabbit (6)
1. immediate
2. 30 min
3. 1h
4. 2h
5. 3-4h
6. following morning
221
# name the condition
enlargement and tympany of the stomach
gastric bloat
222
name the 3 most likely places for blockages in a rabbit leading to gastric bloat or gut stasis
1. pylorus
2. proximal duodenum
3. ileo-caeco-colic junction
223
what is the main cause of blockages in the GIT of rabbits
fur
224
name the 5 parts of a strategic clinical exam that should be done for an emergency situation in a rabbit (suspected blockage)
1. auscultate heart and lungs
2. check pulses
3. palpate abdomen
4. check mm colour
5. check temperature
| (weigh patient!)
225
name the 4 immediate medical therapies that should be done for a rabbit presenting for an emergency
1. bolus of warmed IV fluids
2. oxygen therapy
3. check blood glucose
4. opioid analgesion (avoid meloxicam!)
226
# name the rabbit GI condition based on the radiograph appearance
compacted material in stomach, no significant distension;
small gas pockets throughout GIT;
small caecum or gassy caecum
GI stasis
227
# name the rabbit GI condition based on the radiograph appearance
Dilated stomach – very large in size;
Gas ‘bubble’ with in the stomach;
Can progress to a ‘halo’ effect
gastric bloat
228
name 5 reasons the stomach should be deflated if gastric bloat in a rabbit
1. reduces pain
2. improves breathing effort
3. improves blood flow to organs
4. prevents stomach rupturing
5. allows more time for medical management to take effect
229
how to deflate the stomach of a rabbit with gastric bloat?
orogastric tube
230
what is the correct orogastric tube size for an average sized rabbit to deflate the stomach if gastric bloat
10F
231
name the two areas of resistance while placing an orogastric tube in a rabbit
1. oropharynx
2. cardia
232
name 5 factors that increase mortality of rabbits with a GI obstruction
1. length of time obstruction present
2. hypothermia
3. hyperglycaemia
4. hyponatraemia
5. dehydration
233
# name the cause of diarrhoea in rabbits
associated with stress of overcrowding, unsanitary conditions and concurrent disease
Tyzzer's disease
(Clostridium piliforme)
234
# name the cause of diarrhoea in rabbits
young animals, rescue centres;
hepatic and enteric form affects rabbits;
11 species;
weight loss, poor growth, diarrhoea;
pooled faecal sample for 3-5d with flotation to diagnose;
treat with sulpha drugs (trimethoprim sulphate) or toltrazuril
Coccidiosis
(Eimeria)
235
name the cause of hepatic coccidiosis in rabbits
Eimeria Stiedae
236
what should a typical rabbit diet include?
list the 3 components with percentages
1. grass/hay 78%
2. leafy vegetables 20%
3. pellets 2%
237
# start of RB07
what type of breathers are rabbits?
obligate nasal & diaphragmatic breathers
238
name 8 clinical signs of upper respiratory tract (URT) disease in rabbits
1. nasal discharge
2. sneezing
3. dirty 'hankies'
4. snoring
5. flailing nostrils
6. ocular discharge
7. conjunctivitis
8. dacrocystitis
239
name 7 clinical signs of lower respiratory tract (LRT) disease in rabbits
1. anorexia
2. depression
3. dyspnoea
4. cyanosis
5. exophthalmos
6. abdominal effort to breathing
7. extended neck
| (coughing rare)
240
how would a bacterial infection of the URT of the rabbit usually present?
rhinitis +/- sinusitis
241
how would a nasal foreign body usually present in a rabbit
bilateral discharge
242
name 7 differential diagnoses for a rabbit with purulent nasal discharge
1. bacterial infection
2. nasal foreign body
3. viral infection
4. nasal neoplasia w secondary infection
5. nasal polyp
6. dental disease
7. dacrocystits
243
name the 4 most common bacterial infections associated with URT disease in rabbits
1. Pasteurella multocida
2. Bordatella bronchiseptica
3. Pseudomonas
4. Staph spp
244
# name the pathogen causing URT disease in rabbits
'snuffles'
most common bacterial infection of rabbits;
gram neg bipolar coccobacillus;
many strains and serotypes (capsular type A most common);
rabbits become chronic carriers - develop acute rhinitis, pneumonia, bacteraemis & chronic disease
Pasteurella multocida
245
name 4 stressors that can precipitate clinical disease of Pasteurellosis in rabbits
1. ammonia
2. overcrowding
3. transportation
4. iatrogenic - corticosteroids
246
how far should the nasal swab be inserted in a rabbit for culture of purulent nasal discharge
to level of medial canthus of eye
247
what is a heterophil?
a rabbit neutrophil
248
name 5 diagnostic tests that can be carried out for a rabbit with purulent nasal discharge
1. deep nasal swab
2. haematology
3. PCR
4. Rhinoscopy
5. CT
249
name 7 differential diagnoses for a rabbit with dyspnoea
1. pneumonia
2. tracheal foreign body/stricture
3. pulmonary neoplasia
4. pleural effusion
5. pulmonary oedema
6. mediastinal mass
7. acute smoke inhalation
250
name 5 reasons interpretation of thoracic radiographs in rabbits can be difficult
1. small lung volume
2. difficult to get inspiratory film
3. intrathoracic fat
4. movement artefact (if fast RR or abdo effort)
5. may not be able to sedate if dyspnoeic
251
what is the gold standard for thoracic imaging of a rabbit?
conscious, oxygen provided
CT scan
252
name 5 treatments for respiratory disease in rabbits
1. oxygen therapy
2. antibiotics
3. nebulisation
4. mucolytics
5. anti-inflammatories
253
name the 3 main antibiotics used to treat respiratory disease in rabbits
1. enrofloxacin
2. TMPS
3. depocillin (NOT oral)
254
name 2 products that can be used with nebulisation for treatment of respiratory disease in rabbits
1. enrofloxacin
2. F10
255
what mucolytic can be used to treat respiratory disease in rabbits
Bisolvin
256
name 6 clinical signs of kidney disease in rabbits
1. pain
2. PUPD
3. lethargy
4. inappetant
5. GI stasis
6. seizures
257
name 7 clinical signs of bladder disease in rabbits
1. more time at litter tray
2. straining
3. red staining to urine
4. vocalisation when urinating
5. urine staining/scalding
6. pain
7. PUPD
258
name 5 possible underlying causes of urine scald in rabbits
1. UTI
2. urolithiasis
3. spinal lesions
4. renal failure
5. obesity
259
name the 2 locations where urolithiasis is most commonly located in rabbits
1. bladder
2. urethra
260
what is the most commonly associated urine abnormality with urolithiasis in rabbits
haematuria
261
why are rabbits prone to urolithiasis?
higher calcium plasma levels!
| (more efficient absoroption from diet)
262
name 5 diagnostic investigations for suspected urolithiasis in rabbits
1. physical assessment
2. urinalysis
3. biochemistry
4. ultrasounography
5. radiography
263
what colour rabbit urine is associated with high Ca levels
pale cream
264
what is the normal pH of rabbit urine
8.2
265
what is the normal USG for rabbit urine
1.030 - 1.036
266
what disease in rabbits is proteinuria pathopneumonic for?
renal tubular or renal glomerular disease
267
what should the urine protein:creatinine ratio be in rabbits?
less than 0.4
268
these can be detected via urine cytology in early glomerular disease in rabbits
cellular casts
269
these can be detected via urine cytology in advanced stages of renal failure in rabbits
granular casts
270
name 5 treatments for urine scald in rabbits
1. address underlying cause
2. clean/dry perineum (duoxo shampoo)
3. ANALGESIA (tramadol, NSAID)
4. barrier creams (care with grooming)
5. abx
271
name 4 treatments for cystitis in rabbits
1. address underlying cause
2. abx if bacterial
3. supportive care
4. +/- bladder supplement
272
name 5 treatments for urolithiasis in rabbits
1. address underlying cause
2. surgical or medical
3. analgesia
4. bladder support
5. fluid therapy
273
name 3 ways a rabbit diet should be modified to prevent urinary disease
1. low calcium
2. low pellet component
3. wide variety of veggies
274
name 4 foods high in oxalates that should be avoided in rabbits to prevent urinary disease
1. kale
2. spinach
3. parsley
4. celery
275
# start of RB08
name the 3 categories of ear disease in rabbits
1. otitis externa
2. otitis media
3. otitis interna
276
name 2 reasons lop eared rabbits are predisposed to otitis externa
1. stenotic ear canals
2. 'closed off' distal external ear canal
277
# name the part of the ear
tube-like structure connecting the cartilage of the external pinna down to the level of the tympanic membrane
external ear canal
278
name 5 clinical signs of otitis externa in a rabbit
1. aural discharge
2. head shaking
3. ear scratching
4. depressed
5. swelling at ear base
| (or asymptomatic!)
279
name 5 types of material that could be present in the external ear canal of a rabbit causing limited visibility with otoscope
1. wax
2. cellular debris
3. purulent exudate
4. parasite scaling
5. polyp
280
name 2 treatment options for ear base swellings in rabbits
1. manual cleaning and evacuation
2. surgical creation of a stoma
281
name 2 further complications otitis media can lead to in rabbits
1. otitis interna
2. meningitis
282
how is otitis media best identified in rabbits
CT evaluation
| (often subclinical)
283
name 2 aetiology options for otitis media in rabbits
1. ascending disease (from URT infection)
2. descending disease (from otitis externa or perforation of tympanum)
284
name 3 clinical signs of otitis media in rabbits
1. asymptomatic (usually)
2. GI stasis
3. facial nerve paralysis/contracture
285
name 4 secondary clinical signs of otitis media in rabbits
1. resp disease
2. extension of otitis externa
3. dental disease
4. otitis interna - neuro signs
286
how to diagnose otitis media in rabbits?
imaging of tympanic bulla
(radiography or CT)
287
# name the grade of otitis media in rabbits based on CT
incomplete fill of material in the middle ear;
no bone involvment
grade 1
288
# name the grade of otitis media in rabbits based on CT
complete fill of material in the middle ear;
no bone involvement
grade 2
289
# name the grade of otitis media in rabbits based on CT
material in the middle ear;
bone involvement without alteration to bulla shape
grade 3
290
# name the grade of otitis media in rabbits based on CT
derangement of normal bulla anatomy
grade 4
291
when should medical treatment be used for otitis media in rabbits
if NO bone involvement but material in middle ear
292
when should surgical treatment be used for otitis media in rabbits
if bone involvement and lysis
293
how to medically treat otitis media in rabbits?
1. endoscopic or otoscopic guided ear flush under GA
2. medicated topical drops
3. analgesia
294
list the 4 parts of the Dick Vet protocol for medicated topical drops for otitis media in rabbits
1. 90mL water
2. 10mL Dexamethasone
3. 1 bottle trizEDTA
4. 200mg injectable Marbofloxacin
295
name the 2 steps of surgery to treat otitis media in rabbits
1. PECA (partial ear canal ablation)
2. TBO (total bulla osteotomy)
296
name 3 neuro signs of otitis interna in rabbits
1. head tilt
2. nystagmus
3. altered balance
297
name 3 differential diagnoses for otitis interna in rabbits
1. E. cuniculi
2. brain lesion
3. secondary to otitis media
298
name 3 treatments for otitis interna in rabbits
1. supportive
2. anti-inflammatory
3. abx
299
# name the pathogen
spore-forming obligate intracellular protozoal parasite;
52% seroprevalence in healthy domestic rabbits in UK;
spores shed in urine;
vertical transmission across placenta;
spores can survive 4wks at 22°C ;
infects WBCs, carried to target organs, results in granulomatous reactions
Encephalitozoon cuniculi
300
name 4 target organs of E. cuniculi in rabbits
1. kidney
2. CNS
3. eye
4. liver
301
what does E. cuniculi cause in the kidney of rabbits
granulomatous interstitial nephritis
302
what does E. cuniculi cause in the CNS of rabbits
granulomatous meningioencephalitis
303
what does E. cuniculi cause in the eye of rabbits
cataracts, lens rupture and phacoclastic uveitis
304
what does E. cuniculi cause in the liver of rabbits
focal interstitial hepatitis
305
how long are E. cuniculi spores shed in rabbit urine?
9 weeks post infection
(intermittently)
306
what blood test can be done on rabbits to help diagnose E. cuniculi
paired serology: IgM and IgG
307
what is the treatment for E. cuniculi in rabbits
Fenbendazole
(20mg/kg daily for 4wks)
308
# name the rabbit skin disease
bacterial infection caused by Treponema cuniculi (gram neg spirochete);
highly contagious;
3-6wk incubation period;
unstable in environment;
veneral or direct contact transmission
Rabbit Syphilis
| (NOT zoonotic)
309
how to diagnose rabbit syphillis via cytology
1. dark-field microscopy
2. silver staining
310
how to diagnose rabbit syphillis via serology
blood test to external lab
311
how to treat rabbit syphillis
pareneteral procaine penicillin
312
# start of RB09
what percent of the rabbit bodyweight is made up by the GI tract
15%
313
what should the dose of ketamine be for rabbits for deep surgical anaesthesia
5 mg/kg IM or IV
314
name 4 reasons anaesthesia can be dangerous in rabbits
1. challenging anatomy
2. underlying disease
3. vet inexperience
4. situation can change rapidly
315
should rabbits be fasted before surgery?
not required - rabbits can't vomit
316
why are pellets removed 30min before induction of rabbits if there's no risk of vomiting?
ensure no food left in the mouth
317
name 2 pre-emptive oral medication given to healthy rabbits prior to anasthetic induction
1. gut stimulant (Ranitidine)
2. analgesia (Meloxicam)
318
name the 6 step routine for healthy rabbits before induction of anaesthesia
1. physical exam
2. TPR
3. blood work (optional)
4. clip fur & EMLA on ears
5. preliminary fur clip
6. pre-emptive oral meds
319
name 3 side effects of pre-medication in rabbits
1. respiratory depression
2. cardiac suppression
3. hypothermia
320
name 4 premedications used in rabbits for anaesthesia
1. ketamine
2. Alpha 2
3. opioids
4. benzodiazepines
321
# name the rabbit pre-medication
non-competitive NMDA antagonist;
minimal effects on CV parameters;
low dose provides analgesia, but high dose needed for sedation;
multimodal anaesthetic is best
ketamine
322
# name the rabbit pre-medication
provides sedation, muscle relaxation, and central analgesia;
initial vasodilation followed by vasoconstriction;
depression of HR and RR;
reversed with atipamezole
alpha-2 agonists
323
name two alpha-2 agonists used in rabbits as pre-med
1. medetomidine
2. dexmedetomidine
324
# name the rabbit pre-medication
provides good analgesia for major trauma or procedures;
often used in combination with anaesthetic drugs;
can cause respiratory depression;
relative short fram of action so repeat admin required
opioids
325
name 2 opioids most commonly used as pre-med for rabbits
1. buprenorphine
2. morphine
326
# name the rabbit pre-medication
provide muscle relaxation, sedation and amnesia;
CV effects are minimal;
do NOT provide analgesia;
can increase recovery times;
reversal agent: flumazenil
benzodiazepines
| (Midazolam)
327
name the general anaesthetic protocol for premedication of rabbits
1. ketamine (5mg/kg) + Dexmedetomidine (0.025mg/kg) IM
2. buprenorphine (0.03mg/kg) SQ
328
5-10 minutes after pre-medication, what is often used for induction of anaesthesia in rabbits?
Alfaxalone (1-3mg/kg) slow IV
329
what is the general protocol for sedation of rabbits?
1. Midazolam (0.5-1mg/kg) SQ or IM
2. Buprenorphine (0.03-0.05mg/kg) SQ or IM
330
name the 7 steps of the general anaesthetic procedure in rabbits
1. pre-med
2. IV catheter
3. pre-oxygenation
4. induction
5. intubation
6. maintenance
7. recovery
331
what is the normal intra-operative fluid therapy rate for rabbits
10 mL/kg/h
332
# name the IV drug for anaesthesia induction in rabbits
reliable induction agent;
recently licensed for rabbits;
can cause apnoea;
admin slowly (60s);
can dilute;
given to effect;
use to allow intubation
alfaxalone
333
what is the dose of alfaxalone for induction of rabbits?
1-3 mg/kg slow IV
(given to effect)
334
what maneuver can you do with a rabbit to help move the diaphragm and stimulate spontaneous breathing if respiratory arrest during induction
lift back end gently up and down
| (or toe pinch)
335
name 3 advantages of using a V-gel to help intubate a rabbit
1. very easy to place
2. allows for IPPV
3. easy to clean
336
name 4 disadvantages of using a V-gel to help intubate a rabbit
1. movement from correct position over larynx (dangerous without capnograph)
2. lingual cyanosis
3. expensive
4. cannot use for cheek teeth dentals
337
what is the minute volume of oxygen for rabbits during anaestesia maintenance
250 mL/kg/min
338
what should the resp rate of a rabbit be during anaesthesia?
20-30 bpm
339
what should the ETCO2 be for a rabbit during anaesthesia?
35-45 mmHg
340
what should the tidal volume be for rabbits during anaesthesia?
4-6 mL/kg
341
what should the inspiratory to expiratory ratio be for rabbits during anaesthesia?
1:3
342
what should the heart rate be for rabbits during anaesthesia?
180-300 bpm
343
name 3 pulses that can be used for blood pressure of rabbits during anaesthesia?
1. central auricular
2. metacarpal
3. medial metatarsal
344
what should the blood pressure be for rabbits during anaesthesia?
70-180 mmHg
345
# start of RB10
name 4 ways to minimise the risk of adhesion during abdominal surgery of a rabbit
1. careful tissue handling
2. moist cotton swabs
3. minimal haemorrhage
4. anti-inflamm - NSAID
346
what type of suture material is typically used in the muscle layer of rabbits?
PDS
347
what type of suture material is typically used for ligatures, subcutaneous and intradermal in rabbits?
monocryl
348
name two procedures in rabbits where surgical clips can be helpful
1. adrenal gland removal
2. splenectomy
349
where should the initial incision be made for an ovariohysterectomy in a rabbit
halfway between umbilicus and pubis
350
name 5 possible surgical complications for an ovariohysterectomy in a rabbit
1. haemorrhage
2. perforation of caecum or bladder
3. ligation of ureter
4. fat necrosis
5. muscle closure herniation
351
name the 4 methods for castrating a rabbit
1. open
2. closed
3. open to closed
4. pre-scrotal
352
how long can male rabbits stay fertile for post-castration
up to 6 weeks
353
name 4 possible surgical complications of a rabbit castration
1. herniation
2. scrotal oedema
3. scrotal haemotoma
4. wound self-trauma
354
name 2 reasons why tooth 'root' abscesses in rabbits should not be lanced
1. rabbit pus is very thick
2. bacterial will persist if problem tooth and abscess capsule is not removed
355
name the 4 most common bacterial involved in a dental abscess in rabbits
1. Pasteurella multocida
2. Staphylococcus aureus
3. Pseudomonas spp
4. Fusiform spp
356
what should the culture and sensitivity be done on with a dental abscess in rabbits?
the capsule
(NOT the pus)
357
what should be done for a dental abscess in rabbits where bone infection is present?
marsupialisation of the wound to heal by second intention
| (or abx impregnated beads)
358
what is the indication for a gastrotomy in rabbits
blockage at the pylorus
359
how should the rabbit stomach be closed following a gastrotomy
1. simple continuous inverting pattern
2. double layer of sutures
360
what type of surgery is required if a rabbit has a small intestinal obstruction that cannot be milked
enterotomy
361
where should the longitudinal incision be made for an enterotomy in a rabbit?
in healthy bowel distal to obstruction
362
what suture pattern should be used to close after a rabbit enterotomy
simple interrupted
363
what type of suture and needle should be used to close the small intestine of a rabbit following an enterotomy
1. monofilament absorbable (4-0 or 5-0)
2. round bodied needle
364
what type of abx and for how long should rabbits be given following a gastrotomy or enterotomy surgery
trimethoprim sulphate for 7-10d
365
how long are GI stimulants given to rabbits following surgery
(NOT if gastrotomy or enterotomy)
5 days
