Many people hear their rabbit sneeze and think they have a cold. It is important to know that rabbits do not actually catch colds and there can be many reasons why your pet sneezes.
Steps
Step 1. Find a veterinarian who has experience with rabbits
Not all vets specialize in rabbits, and some, although they claim to know them, don't always have enough experience with exotic animals to know all the reasons why your rabbit may have a respiratory problem. Check with other rabbit owners and do research online to find an experienced vet in your area.
Step 2. Take the rabbit to the vet using a well-ventilated pet carrier or box, and provide him with water in case he needs to drink during the trip
Step 3. Know that there are several factors why your pet can be sick
Make sure you tell the vet everything about the environment in which he lives, what he eats and what kind of fabrics or materials he uses for his kennel. Sometimes your sneezing problem could be solved with a simple change of cage substrate!
Step 4. Your vet may have him undergo several tests, in addition to a physical exam, to determine the cause of the problem
Some vets ask you to collect a stool sample for analysis. Others may have a blood test or take a sample of any leak to do a culture and sensitivity test. This last test helps to determine which antibiotic is best suited to fight the infection.
Step 5. Your vet can send you home with a prescription for antibiotics, even before they know the test results
It is important to give the rabbit antibiotics as prescribed and not to miss any doses.
- Skipping a few doses or ending the treatment before the allotted time facilitates the creation of resistant strains of bacteria. This will make it more difficult to find other effective antibiotics for later treatment. Make sure to always complete the course of medication, making sure to give the rabbit the right dose at the right time.
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Some antibiotics can slow down the animal's digestive system. If you notice any changes in his appetite or change in habits, you must report this to your vet immediately.
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If the rabbit hasn't eaten or drained in the past 10-12 hours, this is a veterinary emergency!
If he stops eating / evacuating during any drug treatment, you should stop the drug and take the rabbit to the vet for emergency treatment.
Care for a Sneezing Rabbit Step 6 Step 6. Spend more time with your pet
This helps you to more easily observe any changes in his behavior, which you may need to inform your vet about, as your treatment may change depending on how you respond to different medications. Plus, your rabbit will feel safer knowing you are close to him.
Advice
- If your rabbit is left outside, consider taking him to a quiet room in the house when he is sick, especially if the weather is unusually hot. This way he avoids spreading the infection to other rabbits and it will be easier for you to monitor his recovery progress.
- If you use pine or cedar for your bed, know that it can be a contributing factor to breathing problems. These materials are known to cause upper respiratory disease in rabbits and other small animals. Consider replacing them with other materials, such as recycled blankets, poplar, cotton material, or other safe fabrics.
Warnings
- Rabbit breathing problems don't go away on their own. It is necessary to understand the cause with the help of the veterinarian.
- Make sure you tell the vet exactly what he's been eating lately. Any type of food or product could be the cause of his sneezing and respiratory complications.
- Not all antibiotics are safe for rabbits. Never give him amoxicillin!
- Avoid stressing your furry pet. Don't handle it too much, unless it feels safe with you.
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