Help our vet to learn the best treatment options for 14.5 y.o. rabbit with arthritis?

Question
My rabbit is 14.5 yrs old and just been diagnosed with arthritis in the 'elbow' joints (using xray). My rabbit is the oldest one our vet has dealt with so he wants to research what the best treatment might be for an elder bun. I'm asking your opinion as to what treatment might be a good balance between protecting the kidneys and relieving pain. The rabbit is 4 lbs 9 oz at his last visit to the vet's.

Answer
Dear Joan,

If you want to completely avoid any risk to the kidneys, then you might want to try Tramadol, a synthetic opioid.  It would probably work better in conjunction with an NSAID such as metacam, but if you are worried about the kidneys, then go for the Tramadol alone.

On the other hand, at this age the question of *quality* of life might be paramount.  If bun is very uncomfortable from the arthritis pain, then it might be worth providing a low dose of metacam, even though it can reduce blood flow to the kidneys.  The drug might not do lasting harm, especially if his kidneys are in pretty good shape right now.  It might be worth the risk if the metacam makes him feel a lot better.

So you'll need to weigh your options, and then proceed with what you think is best for your elderbun.  Congratulations on having him reach such a great age!  :)

Dana