Rabbits Flashcards
RB01-10
what is the scientific name for rabbits as a species
Oryctolagus cuniculus
what is the average lifespan of rabbits
8-12 years
name the 4 groups of rabbit breeds
- fancy
- lop
- normal fur
- rex
what percent of the rabbit bodyweight is the skeleton?
7-8%
what percent of the rabbit body weight is the muscles?
50%
name the vertebral formula for rabbits
C7, T12 (13), L7, S4, C15-16
how many digits does the forelimb of a rabbit have?
5
how many digits does the hindlimb of a rabbit have?
4
what is the gait of a rabbit at rest?
plantigrade
what is the gait of a rabbit when running?
digitgrade
(tippy toes)
what type of lip do rabbits have?
cleft lip with small oral commissure
how many teeth do rabbits have?
28
name the type of tooth
‘open rooted’
no anatomical roots, continuously growing and erupting
elodont
name the type of tooth
long-crowned teeth
hypsodont
name the type of tooth
differently shaped incisors and molars
heterodont
what is the growth rate of rabbit incisors?
3mm per week
what is the growth rate of rabbit cheek teeth?
3mm per month
how often do rabbits housed outdoors moult?
twice yearly
name the 3 locations of scent glands in rabbits
- under chin
- inguinal
- anal
name the rabbit scent gland most prone to impaction
inguinal
why are rabbits prone to pododermatitis?
no foot pads
where is the blind spot for rabbits?
beneath the mouth
(under the chin)
what gland is located just behind the third eyelid of rabbits?
Harderian gland
what is the blink rate for rabbits?
10-12 times per hour
what is the shape of a rabbit’s pupil
spherical
what percent of the globe is the rabbit’s cornea?
30%
do rabbits have a tapetum lucidum?
no
where does the optic disc in rabbits lie?
above the midline of the eye
what direction do the retinal vessels of rabbits spread out?
horizontally
what are the prominent photoreceptors of rabbits?
rods
this organ produces T-cells, plays a vital role in immune function & persists into adulthood in rabbits
thymus
are rabbits able to vomit?
no
what should the pH of an adult rabbit’s stomach be?
1-2
what is the pH of a rabbit’s stomach pre-weaning?
5-6.5
where does fermentation in the rabbit occur?
caecum
what type of bacteria are present in the rabbit caecum for fermentation
anaerobe gram negative Bacteriodes sp.
which VFA is produced the most by caecal fermentation in the rabbit?
acetate (60-80%)
what percent of total (maintenance) energy requirements of a rabbit are obtained from caecal fermentation?
up to 40%
name the 3 parts the rabbit colon can be divided into
- proximal colon
- fusus coli
- distal colon
which part of the rabbit colon can be thought of as the ‘sorting’ zone for indigestive and digestible fibre
proximal colon
name the part of the rabbit proximal colon
muscular bands
taeniae coli
name the part of the rabbit proximal colon
numerous lateral pouches
haustra
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
name the 3 types of colonic motility contractions controlled by the fusus coli
- haustral
- peristaltic
- segmentation
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
name the two types of faeces produced by rabbits
- hard pellets (indigestible)
- caecotrophs (nutrients)
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
how many lobes does a rabbit liver have?
4
when is sexual maturity reached for female rabbits?
4-5 months
when is sexual maturity reached for male rabbits
5-7 months
when is the breeding season for rabbits?
february to october
how long is rabbit gestation period?
31-32 days
when can pregnancy be diagnosed in rabbits
from 14 days
what type of placenta do rabbits have?
haemochorial
how long do rabbit kits suckle per day?
only 3-5 minutes per day
when do rabbits wean?
4-6 weeks
when do the testes descend for male rabbits?
approximately 10 weeks of age
start of RB02
are rabbits cats or dogs?
no, they’re a bit different
name the 6 steps of a clinical exam for a rabbit
- demeanour
- TPR
- nose to tail
- ventrum
- dental and ear exam
- weight
name 4 things to examine at a distance in a rabbit for demeanor part of clinical exam
- resp rate and character
- mentation
- posture
- activity prior to examination
name 3 things that should be auscultated on a rabbit
- heart rate and rhythm
- resp rate
- gut sounds
what is the normal resp rate of a rabbit
30-60 bpm
what is the normal heart rate of a rabbit
180-300 bpm
what is the normal temperature of rabbits
38.5-40 C
how many gut sounds should be heard per minute in a rabbit?
2-4 per minute
name 3 places to auscultate a rabbit for respiratory
- trachea
- thorax (ventrally and dorsally)
- sinuses
what pulses should be palpated in a rabbit?
- femoral
- auricular
what eye reflex should be tested in a rabbit?
palpebral reflex
what eye reflex does a rabbit NOT have?
palpebral response
how should hydration status be assessed in rabbits?
eye position
(sunken = dehydrated)
(more reliable than skin tent)
what 4 aspects of the incisors should be inspected during a clinical exam of a rabbit?
- angle
- malloclusion
- ribbing
- fractures
name the 4 parts of the rabbit head that should be palpated/inspected during a clinical exam
- eyes
- nose
- jaw
- ears
name the 5 parts of the rabbit body that should be palpated/inspected during a clinical exam
- lymph nodes
- palpate limbs
- thoracic compliance
- abdominal palpation
- skin and fur coat
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)
- popliteal
- prescapular
- submandibular
- inguinal
- axillary
where does the stomach sit in the rabbit abdomen?
should be soft and compressible
cranial LHS of abdomen
where can the caecum be palpated in the rabbit abdomen?
should be large and soft
ventrally midline or to RHS
where can the colon be palpated in the rabbit abdomen?
should feel small hard faecal pellets
dorsal, mid-caudal abdomen
name the rabbit ectoparasite
‘walking dandruff’
dorsum, superficial, non-burrowing mite;
zoonotic;
readily diagnosed
all incontacts treated
Cheyletiella parasitovorax
(fur mite)
name 5 things that should be assessed on a ventrum exam of a rabbit
- claw length
- pododermatitis check
- mammary gland palpation
- general hygiene
- sexing
at what point during the clinical exam of a rabbit should the otoscopic exam of ears and teeth be performed?
last!
what 3 prominences should be palpated to determine a rabbit’s BCS
- ribs
- dorsal spinous processes
- pelvic bones
start of RB03
what 3 diseases are rabbits vaccinated against?
- Myxomatosis
- Rabbit Haemorrhage Disease strain 1
- Rabbit Haemorhagic Disease strain 2
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)
how is myxomatosis spread to rabbits?
insect vectors
(rabbit flea, mosquito, mites)
name 6 clinical signs of myxomatosis in rabbits
- swelling of eyelids and genitalia
- milky ocular discharge
- lethargy and depression
- pyrexia and anorexia
- general facial swelling
- death within 14d
name the disease vaccinated against in rabbits
Lagovirus, family Calicivirus;
usually fatal to rabbits;
2 strains
Rabbit Haemorrhagic Disease
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
name 2 clinical signs of hyperacute form of strain 1 Rabbit Haemorrhagic Disease
- dead
- blood from nose or mouth
name 4 clinical signs of subacute form of strain 1 Rabbit Haemorrhagic Disease
- pale mucous membranes
- weak and collapsed
- progressive neurological signs
- rapidly leads to death
what is the most common clinical sign of strain 1 Rabbit Haemorrhagic Disease
acute haemorrhage - haemabdomen
what is the target site of strain 1 Rabbit Haemorrhagic Disease
liver
name 5 sequelae to replication of strain 1 Rabbit Haemorrhagic Disease virus to high titre levels in the liver
- acute hepatic necrosis
- fulminant (sudden) liver failure
- DIC
- hepatic encephalopathy
- nephrosis
name 2 signs of strain 1 Rabbit Haemorrhagic Disease on haematology
- leukopenia
- moderate reduction in thrombocytes
name 4 elevated liver enzymes seen on serum biochemistry in a rabbit with strain 1 Rabbit Haemorrhagic Disease
- ALT
- AST
- AP
- GGT
name 2 differential diagnoses for strain 1 Rabbit Haemorrhagic Disease based on serum biochemistry: elevated liver enzymes
- liver lobe torsion
- hepatic coccidiosis
name 5 ways strain 2 Rabbit Haemorrhagic Disease can be spread
- direct contact between rabbits (faeces, urine, resp secretions)
- vectors (biting insects, birds)
- hay and forage
- fomites/objects
- predator faeces with live virus still active
how long does strain 2 Rabbit Haemorrhagic Disease virus remain actove on fomites at 22 degrees C
120 days
(4 months)
how long does strain 2 Rabbit Haemorrhagic Disease virus remain active on fomites at 4 degrees C
more than 225 days
(7.5 months)
what is the incubation time of strain 1 Rabbit Haemorrhagic Disease
1-2 days
what is the incubation time of strain 2 Rabbit Haemorrhagic Disease
3-9 days
name 4 clinical signs of strain 2 Rabbit Haemorrhagic Disease
- GI stasis
- weight loss
- lethargy
- non-specific liver signs (jaundice)
(wide range)
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
- fluid therapy
- nutritional support
- gut stasis support
- blood transfusion
- warming
how much blood do rabbits have?
70 mL/kg
how much blood can you safely take from a rabbit to use for a transfusion?
7 mL/kg
(10%)
name 3 requirements of a blood donor rabbit
- healthy
- medium to large size
- vaccinated
name 3 diseases a rabbit must be free from in order to be a blood donor
- Encephalitozoan cuniculi
- Rabbit Haemorrhagic Disease
- Myxomatosis
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)
how long can rabbit blood be stored for transfusions at 4-6 degrees C?
28-35 days
name 3 ways to confirm the diagnosis of Rabbit Haemorrhagic Disease at PM
- liver appearance (pale, swollen, focal haemorrhage)
- histopathology
- PCR testing (blood, faeces, oral/rectal swabs, intestinal contents)
name the triple vaccine that can be given to rabbits against Myxomatosis and strain 1 & 2 of Rabbit Haemorrhagic Disease
Novibac Myxo-RHD Plus
what is the duration of immunity for Novibac Myxo-RHD Plus vaccine for rabbits
1 year
how long does it take for the onset of immunity from Novibac Myxo-RHD Plus vaccine for rabbits
3 weeks
when can rabbits be vaccinated with Novibac Myxo-RHD Plus
from 5 wks of age
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)
what disinfectant should be used in the face of an outbreak of RHD (rabbit haemorrhagic disease)?
Virkon
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
how to diagnose fleas on a rabbit?
- visualisation of fleas
- visualisation of flea dirt (wet paper towel)
name 2 flea treatments for rabbits
- Selamectin (Revolution/Stronghold)
- Imidacloprid (Advantge)
what flea treatment can be used on dogs and cats but CANNOT be used on rabbits - causes death!
Fipronil (Frontline)
name 2 species of fur mites affecting rabbits
- Cheyletiella parasitovorax
- Leporacarus gibbus
how to diagnose mites on a rabbit?
tape strip (microscope examination)
what is the treatment for mites on rabbits?
Ivermectin - 2 treatments 14 days apart
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
name 4 treatments that should be given to a rabbit with ear mites
- Ivermectin (2 treatments 14d apart)
- soften scabs (vaseline)
- anti-inflammatory
- clip hind toenails (to reduce self trauma)
name 3 conditions that predispose a rabbit to fly strike
- obesity
- dental disease
- musculoskeletal disease
name 4 common attractants for flies causing fly strike in rabbits
- uneaten caecotrophs
- urine scalding
- unclean enclosure
- incr sedentary time
name 2 topical fly deterrents that can be used in addition to hygiene, etc to help prevent fly strike in rabbits
- permethrin
- cyromazine
what is the wormer of choice for rabbits if needed (not common)
Fenbendazole
from what age can an ovariohysterectomy be performed in a female rabbit
from 5-6 months of age
name 4 reasons to spay female rabbits
- health (uterine cancer)
- prevent pregnancy
- pervent pseudopregnancy
- behavioural
name 3 reasons for castrating a male rabbit
- prevent breeding
- health
- potentially imporves negative behaviours
at what age should a male rabbit be castrated?
5-6 months is ideal;
possible from 4 months
start of RB04
name 3 sites that can be used in rabbits for intravenous catheter placement
- marginal ear vein
- lateral saphenous vein
- cephalic vein
name 3 sites for intraosseus catheters in rabbits
- proximal tibia
- proximal femur
- proximal humerus
name 2 indications for intaosseus catheters in rabbits
- admin of fluids and drugs when IV access is limited or non-existent
- bone marrow biopsy
name 4 sites for blood sample collection in rabbits (in order of preference)
- lateral saphenous vein
- marginal ear vein
- jugular vein
- cephalic vein
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)
name 3 indications for nasolacrimal duct cannulation in rabbits
- facilitate flushing of nasolacrimal duct (blockage or infection)
- instil topical medication into nasolacrimal duct
- perform contrast dacryocystography
what type of local anaesthetic should be used prior to performing nasolacrimal duct cannulation in a rabbit
Proxymetacaine drops
name the 5 steps of nasolacrimal duct cannulation in a rabbit
- assistant holds eyelid open
- gently tent lower lid to open duct entrance
- insert cannula medially
- flush with sterile saline in a 1mL syringe
- watch for appearance of fluid at nose (licking)
name 4 methods of urine collection from a rabbit
- free catch
- manually express bladder (care to prevent rupture)
- cystocentesis
- catheterisation
how should a male rabbit be positioned for the insertion of a urinary catheter
on side or back
how should a female rabbit be positioned for the insertion of a urinary catheter
ventral recumbency
name the 3 most common findings of a faecal analysis in rabbits
- oxyurids (pinworm)
- coccidiosis
- Saccharomyces yeasts
what 3 things should rabbit faeces be assessed for as part of any clinical exam/history taking
- size
- quantity
- fibrous content
how much should F10 be diluted when using in a nebuliser for rabbits
1:250
how much should enrofloxacin be diluted when using a nebuliser for rabbits
1:10
where to give a subcutaneous injection to a rabbit?
scruff
name 2 sites for intramuscular injections for rabbits
- epaxial (lumbar) muscles
- quadriceps muscle
what volume can be given IM to a 2.5kg rabbit
0.5-1 mL
what volume can be given SQ to a 2.5kg rabbit (over 2 sites)
50mL
start of RB05
how many teeth do rabbits have?
28
how many incisors do rabbits have?
6
how many cheek teeth do rabbits have?
22
what is the dental formula for rabbits
I 2/1, C 0/0, PM 3/2, M 3/3
name the type of tooth
open rooted
elodont
name the type of tooth
long-crowned teeth
hypsodont
name the type of tooth
differently shaped teeth - incisor v. cheek teeth
heterodont
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
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
how long per day should a rabbit spend eating/grazing?
8 hours
how much crude fibre should rabbits have in their diet?
20-25%
name the type of fibre
broken down into energy products
digestible
name the type of fibre
acts to stimulate GI motility
indigestible
name the 3 reasons fibre is needed in a rabbits diet
- allows ‘normal behaviour’
- promotes GIT health
- dental exercise
which type of fibre promotes peristalsis in rabbits?
indigestible
name the 3 broad categories of dental disease in rabbits
- acquired (most common)
- congenital
- traumatic
summarise how inadequate wear leadds to acquired dental disease
decr wear = elongation of teeth = incr occlusal contact = incr intrusive pressure
name the 2 most common locations for spurs to form on rabbit cheek teeth with acquired dental disease due to inadequate wear
- lingual surface of mandibular teeth
- buccal surface of maxillary teeth
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
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
what is the most common type of congenital dental disease in rabbits?
incisor malloclusion
at what age does congenital incisor malloclusion in rabbits usually present by?
8-10 weeks
what is the most common traumatic dental disease in rabbits?
fractured incisor(s)
what secondary problems can traumatic fractured incisors in rabbits lead to?
- overgrowths
- malloclusion
name the 5 steps of a dental clinical exam of a rabbit
- jaw palpation
- lateral jaw motion
- incisor evaluation
- cheek teeth exam
- cotton tip test
name 9 specific signs of dental disease in rabbits
- inappetance
- dysphagia
- hypersalivation
- halitosis
- facial swelling
- epiphora
- masseter muscle atrophy
- percieved polydipsia
- teeth grinding
name 4 non-specific signs of dental disease in rabbits
- GI stasis
- weight loss
- unkept coat
- dirty bottom
what 2 things is radiography (or CT scanning) essential to assess with dental disease in rabbits
- reserve AND clinical crown
- surrounding bone
name the preferred views to take for rabbit dental radiographs
(if flat rate)
- R + L lateral obliques
- R + L lateral
- DV
- rostrocaudal
name the 2 most important views to take for rabbit dental radiographs
(if charged per plate)
- R + L obliques
- DV
should the clinical crown be longer on the upper or lower cheek teeth of rabbits?
lower
how often must you rest the mouth from the mouth gag during a rabbit dental?
every 5 minutes
(use a timer)
what should the approximate height of the maxillary crowns be in a rabbit?
2-3 mm
what should the approximate height of the mandibular crowns be in a rabbit?
3-4 mm
name 3 reasons rasping should be avoided during a correctional burring dental of a rabbit
- weakens periodontal ligament
- time consuming
- increased risk of soft tissue trauma
what should be done to rabbit teeth instead of rasping?
burring
each mandibular tooth of a rabbit wears against how many maxillary teeth?
2
if incisor shortening is not done at frequent intervals for a rabbit what can it lead to?
secondary cheek teeth issues
how long does it take for incisor reshaping in rabbits?
2-3 weeks of treatment
how often should rabbit incisors be burred while trying to reshape?
every 3-4 days
name 3 pieces of equiment/materials needed for incisor reshaping in rabbits?
- 5 mL syringe with cut out area
- burr
- wet cotton buds
name the 2 steps of incisor reshaping in a rabbit using a burr
- burr groove out of caudal aspect of upper incisors
- create a reverse occlusal angle to allow lower incisor to ‘hook’ behind the upper incisor
when should results of incisor reshaping in rabbits be seen?
if not, this is when removal should be considered
2 weeks
name 3 advantages of incisor removal in rabbits
- reduces risk of developing cheek teeth disease
- stops need for incisor burring every 3-6wks
- they are no help to rabbit once ‘wonky’
name 2 disadvantages of incisor removal in rabbits
- general anaesthetic needed
- teeth can grow back
name the 4 pieces of equipment needed for incisor removal in a rabbit
- incisor luxator
- long needle (pre-shaped)
- iodine
- patience
name 2 incisor nerve blocks for rabbits
- infraorbital nerve
- mental nerve
name the incisor nerve block for rabbits
maxillary branch of trigeminal nerve;
upper incisors, upper lips;
arises from the infraorbital foramen
infraorbital nerve
name the incisor nerve block for rabbits
ventral and lateral aspect of lips, mandible and lower incisors;
exits the mental foramen
mental nerve
name 6 possible complications of incisor removal in a rabbit
- tooth fracture
- extraction site infection
- haemorrhage
- incisor regrowth
- GI stasis
- jaw fracture
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
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
name 4 non-specific signs of gut stasis in a rabbit
- hypothermia
- anorexia
- lethargy
- weight loss
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
name the 6-fold treatment approach to gut stasis in rabbits
- fluid therpay
- analgesic
- pro-kinetic therapy
- nutritional support
- calm environment
- exercise
what type of fluid is usually given to rabbits with gut stasis
crystalloid - Hartmann’s
what is the maintenance rate of fluids for rabbits
4 mL/kg/h
name 2 analgesia options for rabbits with gut stasis
- NSAIDs (meloxicam)
- opioids (buprenorphine, methadone)
(avoid NSAIDs if dehydrated or diarrhoeic)
name 4 prokinetic options for a rabbit with gut stasis
- Cisapride
- Metaclopramide
- Domperidone
- Ranitidine
name the prokinetic
0.5 mg/kg q12h per os;
promotes gastric emptying;
increases small intestine motility;
increases colonic motility
Cisapride
name the prokinetics
0.5 mg/kg q12h per os;
upper GI tract stimulant
Metaclopramide;
Domperidone
name the prokinetic
4 mg/kg q12h per os;
H2 antagonist;
gastric prokinetic qualities;
gut protectant
ranitidine
name 2 reasons exercise is a necessary part of the treatment for gut stasis in rabbits
- help promote peristalsis
- assist with gas dissipation in the GIT
as a general rule for a barium contrast study:
how long does it take for stomach emptying of a rabbit
15-30 min
as a general rule for a barium contrast study of a rabbit:
how long does it take to reach the caecum
40-60min
as a general rule for a barium contrast study of a rabbit:
how long does it take for caecal fill
1-3h
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)
when should radiographs be taken for a barium contrast study of a rabbit (6)
- immediate
- 30 min
- 1h
- 2h
- 3-4h
- following morning
name the condition
enlargement and tympany of the stomach
gastric bloat
name the 3 most likely places for blockages in a rabbit leading to gastric bloat or gut stasis
- pylorus
- proximal duodenum
- ileo-caeco-colic junction
what is the main cause of blockages in the GIT of rabbits
fur
name the 5 parts of a strategic clinical exam that should be done for an emergency situation in a rabbit (suspected blockage)
- auscultate heart and lungs
- check pulses
- palpate abdomen
- check mm colour
- check temperature
(weigh patient!)
name the 4 immediate medical therapies that should be done for a rabbit presenting for an emergency
- bolus of warmed IV fluids
- oxygen therapy
- check blood glucose
- opioid analgesion (avoid meloxicam!)
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
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
name 5 reasons the stomach should be deflated if gastric bloat in a rabbit
- reduces pain
- improves breathing effort
- improves blood flow to organs
- prevents stomach rupturing
- allows more time for medical management to take effect
how to deflate the stomach of a rabbit with gastric bloat?
orogastric tube
what is the correct orogastric tube size for an average sized rabbit to deflate the stomach if gastric bloat
10F
name the two areas of resistance while placing an orogastric tube in a rabbit
- oropharynx
- cardia
name 5 factors that increase mortality of rabbits with a GI obstruction
- length of time obstruction present
- hypothermia
- hyperglycaemia
- hyponatraemia
- dehydration
name the cause of diarrhoea in rabbits
associated with stress of overcrowding, unsanitary conditions and concurrent disease
Tyzzer’s disease
(Clostridium piliforme)
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)
name the cause of hepatic coccidiosis in rabbits
Eimeria Stiedae
what should a typical rabbit diet include?
list the 3 components with percentages
- grass/hay 78%
- leafy vegetables 20%
- pellets 2%
start of RB07
what type of breathers are rabbits?
obligate nasal & diaphragmatic breathers
name 8 clinical signs of upper respiratory tract (URT) disease in rabbits
- nasal discharge
- sneezing
- dirty ‘hankies’
- snoring
- flailing nostrils
- ocular discharge
- conjunctivitis
- dacrocystitis
name 7 clinical signs of lower respiratory tract (LRT) disease in rabbits
- anorexia
- depression
- dyspnoea
- cyanosis
- exophthalmos
- abdominal effort to breathing
- extended neck
(coughing rare)
how would a bacterial infection of the URT of the rabbit usually present?
rhinitis +/- sinusitis
how would a nasal foreign body usually present in a rabbit
bilateral discharge
name 7 differential diagnoses for a rabbit with purulent nasal discharge
- bacterial infection
- nasal foreign body
- viral infection
- nasal neoplasia w secondary infection
- nasal polyp
- dental disease
- dacrocystits
name the 4 most common bacterial infections associated with URT disease in rabbits
- Pasteurella multocida
- Bordatella bronchiseptica
- Pseudomonas
- Staph spp
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
name 4 stressors that can precipitate clinical disease of Pasteurellosis in rabbits
- ammonia
- overcrowding
- transportation
- iatrogenic - corticosteroids
how far should the nasal swab be inserted in a rabbit for culture of purulent nasal discharge
to level of medial canthus of eye
what is a heterophil?
a rabbit neutrophil
name 5 diagnostic tests that can be carried out for a rabbit with purulent nasal discharge
- deep nasal swab
- haematology
- PCR
- Rhinoscopy
- CT
name 7 differential diagnoses for a rabbit with dyspnoea
- pneumonia
- tracheal foreign body/stricture
- pulmonary neoplasia
- pleural effusion
- pulmonary oedema
- mediastinal mass
- acute smoke inhalation
name 5 reasons interpretation of thoracic radiographs in rabbits can be difficult
- small lung volume
- difficult to get inspiratory film
- intrathoracic fat
- movement artefact (if fast RR or abdo effort)
- may not be able to sedate if dyspnoeic
what is the gold standard for thoracic imaging of a rabbit?
conscious, oxygen provided
CT scan
name 5 treatments for respiratory disease in rabbits
- oxygen therapy
- antibiotics
- nebulisation
- mucolytics
- anti-inflammatories
name the 3 main antibiotics used to treat respiratory disease in rabbits
- enrofloxacin
- TMPS
- depocillin (NOT oral)
name 2 products that can be used with nebulisation for treatment of respiratory disease in rabbits
- enrofloxacin
- F10
what mucolytic can be used to treat respiratory disease in rabbits
Bisolvin
name 6 clinical signs of kidney disease in rabbits
- pain
- PUPD
- lethargy
- inappetant
- GI stasis
- seizures
name 7 clinical signs of bladder disease in rabbits
- more time at litter tray
- straining
- red staining to urine
- vocalisation when urinating
- urine staining/scalding
- pain
- PUPD
name 5 possible underlying causes of urine scald in rabbits
- UTI
- urolithiasis
- spinal lesions
- renal failure
- obesity
name the 2 locations where urolithiasis is most commonly located in rabbits
- bladder
- urethra
what is the most commonly associated urine abnormality with urolithiasis in rabbits
haematuria
why are rabbits prone to urolithiasis?
higher calcium plasma levels!
(more efficient absoroption from diet)
name 5 diagnostic investigations for suspected urolithiasis in rabbits
- physical assessment
- urinalysis
- biochemistry
- ultrasounography
- radiography
what colour rabbit urine is associated with high Ca levels
pale cream
what is the normal pH of rabbit urine
8.2
what is the normal USG for rabbit urine
1.030 - 1.036
what disease in rabbits is proteinuria pathopneumonic for?
renal tubular or renal glomerular disease
what should the urine protein:creatinine ratio be in rabbits?
less than 0.4
these can be detected via urine cytology in early glomerular disease in rabbits
cellular casts
these can be detected via urine cytology in advanced stages of renal failure in rabbits
granular casts
name 5 treatments for urine scald in rabbits
- address underlying cause
- clean/dry perineum (duoxo shampoo)
- ANALGESIA (tramadol, NSAID)
- barrier creams (care with grooming)
- abx
name 4 treatments for cystitis in rabbits
- address underlying cause
- abx if bacterial
- supportive care
- +/- bladder supplement
name 5 treatments for urolithiasis in rabbits
- address underlying cause
- surgical or medical
- analgesia
- bladder support
- fluid therapy
name 3 ways a rabbit diet should be modified to prevent urinary disease
- low calcium
- low pellet component
- wide variety of veggies
name 4 foods high in oxalates that should be avoided in rabbits to prevent urinary disease
- kale
- spinach
- parsley
- celery
start of RB08
name the 3 categories of ear disease in rabbits
- otitis externa
- otitis media
- otitis interna
name 2 reasons lop eared rabbits are predisposed to otitis externa
- stenotic ear canals
- ‘closed off’ distal external ear canal
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
name 5 clinical signs of otitis externa in a rabbit
- aural discharge
- head shaking
- ear scratching
- depressed
- swelling at ear base
(or asymptomatic!)
name 5 types of material that could be present in the external ear canal of a rabbit causing limited visibility with otoscope
- wax
- cellular debris
- purulent exudate
- parasite scaling
- polyp
name 2 treatment options for ear base swellings in rabbits
- manual cleaning and evacuation
- surgical creation of a stoma
name 2 further complications otitis media can lead to in rabbits
- otitis interna
- meningitis
how is otitis media best identified in rabbits
CT evaluation
(often subclinical)
name 2 aetiology options for otitis media in rabbits
- ascending disease (from URT infection)
- descending disease (from otitis externa or perforation of tympanum)
name 3 clinical signs of otitis media in rabbits
- asymptomatic (usually)
- GI stasis
- facial nerve paralysis/contracture
name 4 secondary clinical signs of otitis media in rabbits
- resp disease
- extension of otitis externa
- dental disease
- otitis interna - neuro signs
how to diagnose otitis media in rabbits?
imaging of tympanic bulla
(radiography or CT)
name the grade of otitis media in rabbits based on CT
incomplete fill of material in the middle ear;
no bone involvment
grade 1
name the grade of otitis media in rabbits based on CT
complete fill of material in the middle ear;
no bone involvement
grade 2
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
name the grade of otitis media in rabbits based on CT
derangement of normal bulla anatomy
grade 4
when should medical treatment be used for otitis media in rabbits
if NO bone involvement but material in middle ear
when should surgical treatment be used for otitis media in rabbits
if bone involvement and lysis
how to medically treat otitis media in rabbits?
- endoscopic or otoscopic guided ear flush under GA
- medicated topical drops
- analgesia
list the 4 parts of the Dick Vet protocol for medicated topical drops for otitis media in rabbits
- 90mL water
- 10mL Dexamethasone
- 1 bottle trizEDTA
- 200mg injectable Marbofloxacin
name the 2 steps of surgery to treat otitis media in rabbits
- PECA (partial ear canal ablation)
- TBO (total bulla osteotomy)
name 3 neuro signs of otitis interna in rabbits
- head tilt
- nystagmus
- altered balance
name 3 differential diagnoses for otitis interna in rabbits
- E. cuniculi
- brain lesion
- secondary to otitis media
name 3 treatments for otitis interna in rabbits
- supportive
- anti-inflammatory
- abx
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
name 4 target organs of E. cuniculi in rabbits
- kidney
- CNS
- eye
- liver
what does E. cuniculi cause in the kidney of rabbits
granulomatous interstitial nephritis
what does E. cuniculi cause in the CNS of rabbits
granulomatous meningioencephalitis
what does E. cuniculi cause in the eye of rabbits
cataracts, lens rupture and phacoclastic uveitis
what does E. cuniculi cause in the liver of rabbits
focal interstitial hepatitis
how long are E. cuniculi spores shed in rabbit urine?
9 weeks post infection
(intermittently)
what blood test can be done on rabbits to help diagnose E. cuniculi
paired serology: IgM and IgG
what is the treatment for E. cuniculi in rabbits
Fenbendazole
(20mg/kg daily for 4wks)
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)
how to diagnose rabbit syphillis via cytology
- dark-field microscopy
- silver staining
how to diagnose rabbit syphillis via serology
blood test to external lab
how to treat rabbit syphillis
pareneteral procaine penicillin
start of RB09
what percent of the rabbit bodyweight is made up by the GI tract
15%
what should the dose of ketamine be for rabbits for deep surgical anaesthesia
5 mg/kg IM or IV
name 4 reasons anaesthesia can be dangerous in rabbits
- challenging anatomy
- underlying disease
- vet inexperience
- situation can change rapidly
should rabbits be fasted before surgery?
not required - rabbits can’t vomit
why are pellets removed 30min before induction of rabbits if there’s no risk of vomiting?
ensure no food left in the mouth
name 2 pre-emptive oral medication given to healthy rabbits prior to anasthetic induction
- gut stimulant (Ranitidine)
- analgesia (Meloxicam)
name the 6 step routine for healthy rabbits before induction of anaesthesia
- physical exam
- TPR
- blood work (optional)
- clip fur & EMLA on ears
- preliminary fur clip
- pre-emptive oral meds
name 3 side effects of pre-medication in rabbits
- respiratory depression
- cardiac suppression
- hypothermia
name 4 premedications used in rabbits for anaesthesia
- ketamine
- Alpha 2
- opioids
- benzodiazepines
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
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
name two alpha-2 agonists used in rabbits as pre-med
- medetomidine
- dexmedetomidine
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
name 2 opioids most commonly used as pre-med for rabbits
- buprenorphine
- morphine
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)
name the general anaesthetic protocol for premedication of rabbits
- ketamine (5mg/kg) + Dexmedetomidine (0.025mg/kg) IM
- buprenorphine (0.03mg/kg) SQ
5-10 minutes after pre-medication, what is often used for induction of anaesthesia in rabbits?
Alfaxalone (1-3mg/kg) slow IV
what is the general protocol for sedation of rabbits?
- Midazolam (0.5-1mg/kg) SQ or IM
- Buprenorphine (0.03-0.05mg/kg) SQ or IM
name the 7 steps of the general anaesthetic procedure in rabbits
- pre-med
- IV catheter
- pre-oxygenation
- induction
- intubation
- maintenance
- recovery
what is the normal intra-operative fluid therapy rate for rabbits
10 mL/kg/h
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
what is the dose of alfaxalone for induction of rabbits?
1-3 mg/kg slow IV
(given to effect)
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)
name 3 advantages of using a V-gel to help intubate a rabbit
- very easy to place
- allows for IPPV
- easy to clean
name 4 disadvantages of using a V-gel to help intubate a rabbit
- movement from correct position over larynx (dangerous without capnograph)
- lingual cyanosis
- expensive
- cannot use for cheek teeth dentals
what is the minute volume of oxygen for rabbits during anaestesia maintenance
250 mL/kg/min
what should the resp rate of a rabbit be during anaesthesia?
20-30 bpm
what should the ETCO2 be for a rabbit during anaesthesia?
35-45 mmHg
what should the tidal volume be for rabbits during anaesthesia?
4-6 mL/kg
what should the inspiratory to expiratory ratio be for rabbits during anaesthesia?
1:3
what should the heart rate be for rabbits during anaesthesia?
180-300 bpm
name 3 pulses that can be used for blood pressure of rabbits during anaesthesia?
- central auricular
- metacarpal
- medial metatarsal
what should the blood pressure be for rabbits during anaesthesia?
70-180 mmHg
start of RB10
name 4 ways to minimise the risk of adhesion during abdominal surgery of a rabbit
- careful tissue handling
- moist cotton swabs
- minimal haemorrhage
- anti-inflamm - NSAID
what type of suture material is typically used in the muscle layer of rabbits?
PDS
what type of suture material is typically used for ligatures, subcutaneous and intradermal in rabbits?
monocryl
name two procedures in rabbits where surgical clips can be helpful
- adrenal gland removal
- splenectomy
where should the initial incision be made for an ovariohysterectomy in a rabbit
halfway between umbilicus and pubis
name 5 possible surgical complications for an ovariohysterectomy in a rabbit
- haemorrhage
- perforation of caecum or bladder
- ligation of ureter
- fat necrosis
- muscle closure herniation
name the 4 methods for castrating a rabbit
- open
- closed
- open to closed
- pre-scrotal
how long can male rabbits stay fertile for post-castration
up to 6 weeks
name 4 possible surgical complications of a rabbit castration
- herniation
- scrotal oedema
- scrotal haemotoma
- wound self-trauma
name 2 reasons why tooth ‘root’ abscesses in rabbits should not be lanced
- rabbit pus is very thick
- bacterial will persist if problem tooth and abscess capsule is not removed
name the 4 most common bacterial involved in a dental abscess in rabbits
- Pasteurella multocida
- Staphylococcus aureus
- Pseudomonas spp
- Fusiform spp
what should the culture and sensitivity be done on with a dental abscess in rabbits?
the capsule
(NOT the pus)
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)
what is the indication for a gastrotomy in rabbits
blockage at the pylorus
how should the rabbit stomach be closed following a gastrotomy
- simple continuous inverting pattern
- double layer of sutures
what type of surgery is required if a rabbit has a small intestinal obstruction that cannot be milked
enterotomy
where should the longitudinal incision be made for an enterotomy in a rabbit?
in healthy bowel distal to obstruction
what suture pattern should be used to close after a rabbit enterotomy
simple interrupted
what type of suture and needle should be used to close the small intestine of a rabbit following an enterotomy
- monofilament absorbable (4-0 or 5-0)
- round bodied needle
what type of abx and for how long should rabbits be given following a gastrotomy or enterotomy surgery
trimethoprim sulphate for 7-10d
how long are GI stimulants given to rabbits following surgery
(NOT if gastrotomy or enterotomy)
5 days
