Rabbit Health

Molar and Premolar Malocclusion and Elongation   In rabbits, the molars and premolar teeth are aligned as a single functional unit and referred to as the cheek teeth. Cheek teeth elongation occurs when normal wear does not properly occur, or when the teeth do not align properly (malocclusion). The latter is one of the most common complaints in pet rabbits, and can happen either at birth from trauma or because of other reasons.   Cheek teeth elongation generally occurs in middle-aged or older rabbits, while younger rabbits may suffer from congenital malocclusion.

Osteoarthritis   Osteoarthritis, also known as degenerative joint disease (DJD), is a chronic (long-term) condition that causes the cartilage surrounding the joints to deteriorate. Arthritis, on the other hand, is the general medical term for inflamed joints. And much like humans, rabbits can suffer from osteoarthritis.   Symptoms and Types   Symptoms of DJD vary depending on severity and cause, though affected rabbits may show lameness or a stiff gait, restricted motion, or be unable to hop.

Anterior Uveitis   The front of the eye is called the uvea — the dark tissue that contains blood vessels. When the uvea becomes inflamed the condition is referred to as anterior uveitis (literally, inflammation of the front of the eye). It is a common condition in rabbits of all ages.   Symptoms and Types  The most common symptom is a change of appearance in the affected eye(s).

Shope Papilloma Virus   Shope papilloma virus, sometimes referred to as cottontail cutaneous papilloma virus, is a viral disease that causes malignant tumors to grow in rabbits, often on its head. The virus is seen in wild rabbits, as well as domestic or pet rabbits.   Outbreaks of the disease more commonly seen during the summer and fall, when populations of disease-carrying insects are highest. Keeping rabbits indoors during these seasons is recommended.

Renal Failure   Rabbits, much like humans, suffer from renal failure. This causes them to produce less urine and is infrequently due to cases of dehydration. There are two forms of renal failure: acute or chronic. Acute renal failure may occur suddenly because of an accumulation of toxins in the kidney(s), or as a result of an electrolyte imbalance.

 Cachexia   Weight loss can occur in rabbits, but when they lose 10 percent or more of their normal body weight it becomes a major concern -- no longer an issue of decrease in fluid weight. It is especially worrisome when the weight loss accompanies muscle atrophy (or the wasting away of muscle mass). This state of poor health is usually referred to as cachexia, and it requires immediate medical attention.   Symptoms and Types  The symptoms the rabbit displays are dependent on the underlying cause of the condition.

 Excess body weight, or obesity, is as much a problem in rabbits as it is in any other species, especially household rabbits. Rabbits that are obese are not able to function normally because of their large size and body fat percentage.   Although certain breeds of rabbit, including the dwarf rabbit, are more at risk for obesity due to their shorter stature and inactivity, it occurs most often among middle-aged rabbits that are caged, and is independent of their gender.

 Rabies is a very severe and almost always fatal viral disease that occurs commonly in warm-blooded animals, including rabbits. It typically results in the swelling of the brain and nervous system, which can result in paralysis, blindness, aggression, mood changes, and other symptoms.   Symptoms and Types  The signs and symptoms of this disease vary depending on the species affected, as rabies can affect other animals, including dogs and cats, and even people. It is actually not common among rabbits, but can affect them.

 Idiopathic Epileptic Seizures  Rabbits, much like humans, can suffer from epileptic seizures. Occurring when specific neurons in the brain reach a point of “hyper excitability.” This, in turn, can lead to bouts of involuntary body movement or function in the rabbit. You must be very careful with the rabbit during these periods of excited cerebral activity, as the seizures can cause brain damage.   Symptoms and Types  The signs and symptoms of seizures may depend on the cause for the seizure.