Mini Rex Rabbit Swollen Ear

Question
The rabbit is about 7 mos. old. Male. I can not afford a vet. On one ear there are open red sores on the inside of the ear been there for some time and the other one does not have those sores but has become swollen overnite. I put human antibiotic cream on the open sores not knowing what else to do. Now, looking on the internet it seems I should either try baby oil/mineral oil or hydrogen peroxide. According to other websites it doesn't appear to me to be mites but, I could be wrong. He is an inside pet. Thank you for your time and help.

Answer
Dear April,

I think you already know that I can't diagnose this without seeing it.  If it's mange, you will need medication from the vet.  Please see:

www.bio.miami.edu/hare/furloss.html

If it's a wound and is suddenly swollen, it could be much more serious, as an infection can be life-threatening if it becomes systemic.  A severely swollen ear, highly vascularized, is a worrisome sign.  If you can't get to a vet today, at least wash the ear well with dilute povidone iodine (Betadine or generic brand) and keep a very close eye on bunny's behavior and appetite.  Please read this for emergency instructions, should he start to act sick:

www.bio.miami.edu/hare/sickbun.html

And please don't assume that you can't afford a vet visit, which is what your bunny needs.  When you adopted him, you became the only person who can help him when he's sick, and it's possible that a vet visit will not be that expensive.  Please check the list linked here for a rabbit-savvy vet:

www.rabbit.org/vets

and call around to find out the cost of an office visit.  It could save your friend's life.

I hope this helps.

Dana