Approach to the anorexic rabbit

Abstract

Background: An anorexic rabbit is a common presentation to a veterinary practice and it's vital to remember that anorexia is not a single syndrome but can occur because of multifactorial conditions that often cause pain. Rabbits are prey species and hide clinical signs, so when they present to the clinic, the disease process is often advanced. Anorexia is one sign that may be seen with rabbit gastrointestinal syndrome, and other clinical signs include abdominal pain/distension, lethargy and lack of faecal output. Pain is associated with these signs and must be effectively addressed, in addition to the underlying cause. Anorexia may be a sign of other diseases such as upper respiratory tract disease, urogenital disease or dental disease. Aim of the article: This article outlines the approach to the anorexic rabbit, highlighting the main differential diagnoses for the underlying causes of anorexia, and discusses how to provide supportive care and the treatment options available.

Approach to the anorexic rabbit

“…We also consider it inappropriate to use staffing inadequacies as a 'pseudo-clinical indication' to advocate SC fluid provision. 1 Finally the purported 'correct' answer to question 3 in the selfassessment section, 'What is the average water intake for a rabbit per day? ', is 50 to 100 ml/kg.…”

“…WE both agree that intravenous fluid therapy (IVFT) is the best course of action for animals requiring rehydration and this has been clearly highlighted in the article as our preferred method. 1 The aim of the article was to provide a pragmatic approach to 'the anorexic rabbit'. It was not in the scope of this article to discuss every option thoroughly; however, we included other widely documented options for fluid delivery in rabbits, including their advantages and disadvantages.…”

“…The RCVS had not allowed her to take its examinations. 1 Her life story, including a detailed examination of the RCVS records, was published in 1990 1 and has been recently updated. 2 Cust practised in Ireland and was soon accepted by clients and colleagues.…”

“…WE write to raise concern regarding the advocacy of subcutaneous (SC) fluids highlighted in a recent article by Sarah Pellett and Jo Hinde published in In Practice. 1 While commonplace for cats and dogs decades ago, the ineffectiveness of this administration route has been recognised. Indeed, reference to this modality is noticeable by its absence in current texts/papers/courses for these species.…”

“…Most owners would be dismayed to learn that the advised administration of a ‘large’ (but unspecified) volume of SC fluids 1 falls below expected welfare standards for laboratory rabbits, where a maximum of 2.5 ml/kg, 4 5 ml/kg 5 and 2.5 to 10 ml/kg 6 are considered acceptable. Even the upper limit of these figures would do little to redress dehydration in a species with a daily maintenance rate requirement of 100 ml/kg.…”