Conjuctivitis?

OneAcreFarm · Nov 19, 2011

Do rabbits get conjunctivitis? I have a three right now that each have one red, swollen, goopy eye. It looks like some sort of infection to me...I have been putting lots of hay in the cages and it is really windy here lately. What can I do for this? I DO have them isolated, just in case....

MaggieJ · Nov 19, 2011

I take it that these are adult rabbits and it is not "nestbox eye" in youngsters. Yes, certainly they can get eye infections. I'd irrigate the eye with dilute black or chamomile tea (tepid) to flush out any particles and then apply an ophthalmic ointment.

You are wise to isolate them. It's a bit alarming that three should have the same thing. And it can be, as you know, a symptom of snuffles.

OneAcreFarm · Nov 21, 2011

MaggieJ":3mpr2imw said:
I take it that these are adult rabbits and it is not "nestbox eye" in youngsters. Yes, certainly they can get eye infections. I'd irrigate the eye with dilute black or chamomile tea (tepid) to flush out any particles and then apply an ophthalmic ointment.

You are wise to isolate them. It's a bit alarming that three should have the same thing. And it can be, as you know, a symptom of snuffles.

Maggie,

I got some Vetericyn since TSC was out of Terramycin ointment. I have been using that 3-4 times a day. It seems to be helping. I have them isolated. I don't *think* it is P.Multocida, the eye area is inflamed and red, more like an infection. I will keep them isolated for a month or so and watch them...

MaggieJ · Nov 21, 2011

Sounds like you have the situation well in hand, Shannon. :goodjob: I know you, more than most people, recognize the need for good isolation protocols in cases like this.

OneAcreFarm · Nov 22, 2011

Well, it seems the Vetericyn is doing the trick, but I will keep them isolated for awhile anyway. Their eyes are looking much better, and I really think it was just some kind of irritation or inflammation. They DON'T like me spraying the vetericyn in their eyes, though. On the up side, I have to put in three nestboxes today, so maybe I will actually get some kits this week... :O)

MaggieJ · Nov 22, 2011

Glad they are responding to the treatment. It does sound like an irritation-based problem, but just in case you are being smart to keep them isolated.

Hope your three does kindle a plethora of pretty popples for you!