Question
Biggs
Hi Dr Krempels,
I contacted you a month or so ago about my other rabbit, Aero. Sadly Aero passed away, and I have lost all faith in our vets, because of that & other problems... I'm going to switch vets now, but there are no rabbit-savvy vets in my area, so I just want to get your advice so I can add that to whatever input I get from the new vet.
Biggs is ten years old. I'm going to list the issues I'm concerned about by number because there are several things going on:
1. His eye-- runny and has been runny for several years, never responds to antibiotics (tried ointment, drops, and orally administered), and also has a small dark spot in the white of the eye. The dot never changes size or shape (been about four years that I've been keeping track of it). Had two vets look at it and neither had any suggestions beyond "If it doesn't bother him it's probably nothing."
2. In the last couple of months he's started to have sticky, clumped fur at the corners of his mouth. Should we have his teeth checked? I know it's a good idea, but the vet said they have to be anesthetized to examine their teeth and I'm really worried about anesthesia at his age.
3. Should he be checked for arthritis?
4. His age- do you see rabbits live much past ten? Is it better to just let him be, as he seems comfortable?
I'm sorry to bother you with so many questions, but I really want to take the very best care of him that I can, and I just don't have a knowledgeable vet available. I'm attaching an image that shows the runny eye, and also the third eyelid seems to be visible all the time.
Thanks so much,
Dora
AnswerDear Dora,
Taking your questions one at a time...
1. I'll concur with the vets on this one. If it's not changing and not seeming to cause him trouble, then I wouldn't worry about the spot. The runny eyes are likely related to dental problems:
www.bio.miami.edu/hare/sneezing.html
2. Yes, it's time for a dental exam. Anesthesia is a little more risky for an older bun, but if a good wellness exam is done first, the vet should be able to determine if Biggs is a good candidate or not.
3. If he's stiff, he may have arthritis. Radiographs might show it, or might not. But meloxicam and/or tramadol can really help. Ask the vet about giving it a try, if he's stiff, whether or not you have the rads done.
4. Rabbits are living well into their teens these days. There's no reason to think that Biggs is on his way out. He just needs support due to an elderbun, and he could be with you for a long, happy time.
He's lucky to have such a caring mom! :)
Take care,
Dana
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