Vent disease

Question
QUESTION: I have always been under the assumption that vent disease is caused by a build up in the rabbits vents and that keeping them clean will prevent it. Is this wrong or is there truth to it?
thank you
Crystal

ANSWER: Dear Crystal,

The non-specific term "vent disease" is usually used to describe rabbit syphilis, caused by the spirochete bacterium Treponema cuniculi.  It is usually treated with 5-7 days of injectable Penicillin G Procaine (rabbits *cannot* be given oral penicillins).

But if you mean something other than syphilis by "vent disease," then please send a more detailed description of the problem, and I'll try to help.

Dana

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: What is the build, green or black crusty, from what I have been told due to hormones(?), in the vents called?
Thanks
Crystal

Answer
Dear Crystal,

If you are referring to the waxy substance produced by the scent glands on either side of the prepuce, then I'm not sure it has a technical name.  It's a lipid-based substance that acts as a carrier for the bunny's scent/musk.  

I've never seen it be green, though.  Hope that's not pus.  It's usually brown or sometimes black.

Dana