Rabbit diseases
Overview
Rabbits are susceptible to various diseases that can affect their health and longevity. These diseases can be categorized into infectious and non-infectious diseases. Infectious diseases are caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. Non-infectious diseases can be due to genetic predisposition, environmental factors, or improper care and diet.
Infectious Diseases
Infectious diseases in rabbits are caused by various microorganisms and parasites. They can be transmitted through direct contact, contaminated food or water, or through vectors such as insects.
Bacterial Diseases
Bacterial diseases are common in rabbits and can cause serious health problems. The most common bacterial diseases in rabbits include Pasteurellosis, Myxomatosis, and Tularemia.
Pasteurellosis
Pasteurellosis is a bacterial disease caused by Pasteurella multocida. It is one of the most common diseases in domestic rabbits. Symptoms include sneezing, nasal discharge, conjunctivitis, and abscesses. Treatment involves antibiotics and supportive care.
Myxomatosis
Myxomatosis is a severe viral disease that affects rabbits. It is caused by the Myxoma virus and is spread by biting insects such as mosquitoes and fleas. Symptoms include swelling of the eyes, nose, and genitals, fever, and lethargy. There is no specific treatment for myxomatosis, and it is often fatal.
Tularemia
Tularemia, also known as rabbit fever, is a bacterial disease caused by Francisella tularensis. It can be transmitted to humans through contact with infected animals or through the bite of an infected tick or deer fly. Symptoms in rabbits include fever, lethargy, and sudden death. Treatment involves antibiotics.
Viral Diseases
Viral diseases in rabbits include Rabbit Hemorrhagic Disease and Myxomatosis.
Rabbit Hemorrhagic Disease
Rabbit Hemorrhagic Disease (RHD) is a highly contagious and lethal disease of rabbits. It is caused by a calicivirus and can cause sudden death in rabbits. There is no specific treatment for RHD, but a vaccine is available in some countries.
Fungal Diseases
Fungal diseases in rabbits are less common than bacterial and viral diseases. The most common fungal disease in rabbits is ringworm.
Ringworm
Ringworm is a fungal infection that affects the skin, hair, and nails. It is caused by dermatophytes, a type of fungus. Symptoms include hair loss, scaling, and redness of the skin. Treatment involves antifungal medications.
Parasitic Diseases
Parasitic diseases in rabbits can be caused by external parasites such as fleas and mites, or internal parasites such as worms.
Fleas and Mites
Fleas and mites can cause itching, hair loss, and skin inflammation in rabbits. Treatment involves topical or oral medications to kill the parasites.
Worms
Internal parasites such as worms can cause weight loss, diarrhea, and other digestive problems in rabbits. Treatment involves deworming medications.
Non-Infectious Diseases
Non-infectious diseases in rabbits can be due to genetic factors, environmental factors, or improper care and diet.
Genetic Diseases
Genetic diseases in rabbits are inherited from their parents. These include dental malocclusion and hereditary ataxia.
Dental Malocclusion
Dental malocclusion is a common genetic disease in rabbits. It is characterized by abnormal growth of the teeth, which can cause difficulty eating and other health problems. Treatment involves regular dental care and a proper diet.
Hereditary Ataxia
Hereditary ataxia is a rare genetic disease in rabbits. It is characterized by uncoordinated movements and balance problems. There is no specific treatment for hereditary ataxia.
Environmental Diseases
Environmental diseases in rabbits can be caused by exposure to harmful substances or poor living conditions.
Heat Stroke
Heat stroke is a common environmental disease in rabbits. It can occur when rabbits are exposed to high temperatures and cannot cool down. Symptoms include panting, lethargy, and seizures. Treatment involves cooling the rabbit down and providing supportive care.
Diet-Related Diseases
Diet-related diseases in rabbits can be caused by improper feeding. These include obesity and gastrointestinal stasis.
Obesity
Obesity is a common diet-related disease in rabbits. It can be caused by overfeeding or feeding a diet high in fat and low in fiber. Obesity can lead to other health problems such as heart disease and arthritis. Treatment involves a proper diet and exercise.
Gastrointestinal Stasis
Gastrointestinal stasis is a common diet-related disease in rabbits. It can be caused by a diet low in fiber or by stress. Symptoms include loss of appetite, lethargy, and bloating. Treatment involves dietary changes and medications to stimulate gut motility.
Prevention and Control
Prevention and control of diseases in rabbits involve proper care and management, including a balanced diet, regular veterinary check-ups, vaccination, and good hygiene practices.