Sneezing in Rabbits: Is It Just Dust or a Respiratory Infection?
It may be small, wiggly, and cute as a button, but a rabbit’s nose is also highly sensitive. Those noses do a lot of heavy lifting, from helping them find food to sniffing out danger. They’re also sensitive in another sense: if your bunny comes into contact with dust or other irritants, the nasal passages can become infected.
The team at South Texas Avian and Exotic Hospital is highly trained in treating all sorts of pets, rabbits included. Here’s what we want you to know about snuffles, nasal discharge, and sneezing in rabbits.
What Causes Rabbits to Sneeze?
There are several possible reasons why your rabbit might sneeze, and they’re not all serious. Environmental irritants like hay, smoke, poor air quality, or even scented bedding can make your rabbit sneeze.
But persistent sneezing can signal an infection. One of the most common, and most serious, respiratory conditions in rabbits is snuffles. Despite its cute name, snuffles are anything but. This upper respiratory infection is caused by bacteria, such as Pasteurella multocida.
Snuffles can block up the rabbit’s nose, and make it difficult to breathe. Worse, it can quickly spread to any other rabbits in your hutch.
Another potential reason for sneezing and nasal discharge in rabbits is overgrown tooth roots, a symptom of Acquired Dental Disease (ADD). This type of dental disease can make it difficult for rabbits to eat and breathe, and requires prompt treatment.
What Are the Symptoms of Respiratory Infections in Rabbits?
The most telling symptoms of respiratory infections in rabbits include:
- Sneezing more than once or twice in a day
- Wheezing or noisy breathing
- Lack of appetite
- Weight loss due to difficulty eating
- Reduction in activity
- Wet fur around the nose or front paws due to nasal or oral discharge
These signs are somewhat subtle, especially in a pet that spends a lot of time outside, away from its owners. It’s important to scan your rabbit for any of these potential symptoms of rabbit respiratory infections.
Write down what symptoms you notice, what time they occur, and give your veterinarian a call.
Treating Rabbit Respiratory Infection Symptoms
To treat respiratory issues in rabbits, your veterinarian may recommend:
- Antibiotics if a bacterial infection is the cause
- Changes to bedding or hay to get rid of dusty mustiness
- Hydration and assisted feeding to help support recovery
- Dental treatment for tooth root issues or ADD
The experienced team at South Texas Avian and Exotic Hospital is here to support your fluffy friend through any worrisome symptoms, including respiratory ones. Call us at (210) 424-1871 to schedule an appointment today.