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Rabbit-bulging eyes + cataracts

22 9:56:28

Question
Hi Dana,
I have noticed for some time now (1-2 years, but getting more frequent) that
my rabbit's eyes seem to bulge when she is eating (head down).
She is 8.5 years old now. I have had her since she was 1 yo. No serious
illnesses, she lost her appetite last May, but taken to the vet, put on Critical
Care formula and has since regained her appetite.

In the past half year she has developed full cataracts in her right eye. Left eye
is still clear with no signs of cataracts.

I came across your answer to this question:
http://en.allexperts.com/q/Rabbits-703/periodic-bulging-eyes.htm

I believe it may apply to my rabbit.
Was wondering if the bulging eyes & cataracts were linked in any way and if
there is anything that can be done for either her cataracts or bulging eyes at
the age of 8.5 years.

In addition, her carpal joints in both front legs are bending inwards. This has
happened gradually over the past 4-5 years. She still puts weight on them,
but I am worried that as she ages they will cause more pain. Please would you
advise if there is anything that could alleviate joint pain for an elderly rabbit/
what the cause might be, so that it can be eliminated.

Thank you so much for your attention.

Answer
Dear Joanne,

Yes, this type of presentation could indicate a thymoma, a cancer of the thymus gland.  It is generally not invasive, though it can grow large enough to seriously impinge on normal breathing, and can develop into a life-threatening condition.

There are treatments, as you can read here:

http://search.atomz.com/search/?sp-a=00062824-sp00000000&sp-q=thymoma

Another possibility would be retrobulbar (behind the eye) abscesses, which can start with maloccluded molars becoming infected.  But this is less likely if you see the bulging only periodically, and especially when bun puts her head down.

I hope this will help you find a good rabbit vet:

www.rabbit.org/vets

Cataracts are generally not linked to most conditions that cause cataracts (clouding of the lenses), but eye conditions can exist that might promote both.  This could be checked by a good vet, or--if possible--a veterinary ophthalmologist.

Pain management for arthritis is important, and please ask the vet about metacam and/or tramadol for this.  Gentle massage, manipulation, range-of-motion exercises and application of moist heat compresses to the affected areas can also help.

Good luck,

Dana