Contagious rabbit cold
The contagious rabbit cold ( rhinitis contagiosa cuniculi ) is a bacterial infectious disease of the respiratory tract in rabbits , which is fatal and can cause significant losses, especially in larger herds.
etiology
The main pathogen of the disease is Pasteurella multocida , but the disease is usually not a monoinfection, but other pathogens such as Bordetella bronchiseptica are involved in rabbit cold (mixed infection). Poor housing conditions (drafts, dust exposure, poor hygiene), which are associated with a reduction in the body's own defenses, are predisposing . Other factors are stress (e.g. from transport, unfamiliar surroundings) and incorrect feeding. In rabbit populations, especially if they are kept too close together, it can quickly become infected from animal to animal. The disease occurs more frequently in winter.
Symptoms
The rabbit cold begins with unspecific symptoms of inflammation of the nose ( rhinitis ), such as sneezing and nasal discharge. The latter is usually watery (serous) at the beginning, later it can be purulent . Often the fur sticks to the nostril. Since affected rabbits clean themselves more often than usual, the paws are also stuck together with secretion. The conjunctiva are often also affected, it results in a conjunctivitis with red, or purulent sore eyes. There is a fever and a disturbed general condition. As the disease progresses, the lower airways are also affected and inflammation of the bronchi and lungs ( bronchopneumonia ) develops , which can progress slowly over the years and lead to the death of the animals. Due to the difficult nasal breathing, unusual breathing noises can be heard and mouth breathing can be observed.
If the disease spreads to the ears, it leads to otitis media and / or inner ear infection . The rabbit appears apathetic, shows reluctance to eat and tilts the head.
Differential diagnoses
A distinction must be made between harmless rhinitis caused by viruses , less pathogenic bacteria, dust and allergens (litter, pollen).
The myxomatosis (Kaninchenpest) may be in the early stages with swelling of the eyelids accompanied, can be clinically distinguish but usually without problems.
treatment
The nostrils and eyes can be cleaned with physiological saline solution and treated with eye drops containing antibiotics . Systemic administration of antibiotics with broad spectrum antibiotics (e.g. enrofloxacin , marbofloxacin ) is essential. In support are vitamin doses recommended by fresh food and certain herbs such as thyme, plantain and chamomile. In any case, any deficiencies in keeping should be corrected.
Symptomatic treatment is supported by inhalation of salt water vapor.
A vaccination against the contagious rabbit cold is only recommended for larger populations or animals that take part in exhibitions. A commercial vaccine is available.
