Fleas
If your pet rabbit unfortunately becomes infested with fleas, it can be treated with a spot on solution, it important to treat all other pets in the house if this occurs, as fleas can jump! Fleas can spread Myxomatosis, you should regularly check your rabbits coat for fleas, this can be carried at home or in the practice by one of the veterinary nurses if you prefer.
Ear Mites
Signs of a rabbit with an ear mite infestation include:
- Constant shaking of head
- Scratching ears
- Excessive build-up of wax
Ear mites can be viewed with the naked eye. If your concerned that your rabbit has ear mites, either phone the surgery or pop along to see the vet at consultation times, by booking an appointment today.
Cheyletiella
These mites are white in colour that live on the skin surface. They can cause itchiness, hair loss and scurfy skin. There are products available, to treat against this mite.
Flystrike
Flystrike is when flies lay eggs on a rabbit, which hatch into maggots. These maggots then begin to eat flesh within a few hours. It is a very distressing condition for rabbits which can be painful. They can appear restless, uncomfortable or quieter than usual.
Flystrike can occur at any time of year but is more common from spring to autumn. Any rabbit can get flystrike but some factors can increase the risk. These include:
- Long hair
- Diarrhoea
- Obesity
- Dirty bottoms
- Damp or dirty living conditions
If you think your rabbit has flystrike please contact the practice immediately, and depending on the severity of its condition it can be seen immediately. Your rabbit may be treated during a consultation or have to be admitted, if it is a severe case.
They will have the affected area clipped and the maggots removed. Then your rabbit will be started on a course of antibiotics & pain relief, along with a supportive nursing care.