Lop ear eye problem

Question
Hi,

We were given a lop ear bunny a few weeks ago.I noticed it has a white cottage cheese looking thing on one eye. Is this something common or do I need a vet.

Answer
Hi,

rabbits have a nictitating membrane that may appear light colored.  It is basically the same kiind of thing a bird has to protect its eyes in flight.  They also can blink it very quickly to get debris out of the eye, althoug they can do this faster than you can see it.

Generally you do not see it, or see just a tiny portion of it in the corner of the eye closest to the nose.  Now if you see a lot of it, or the eye is bulging out more than normal, it could signal the bunny hasa sinus infection behind the eye, or something else.  

SInce your guy is new to your house, I strongly suggest having a general exam (ie wellness exam).  It will give you a good opportunity to discuss this, and also diet questions and anything else you have on your mind, with a vet.  The key is to go to a good rabbit vet.

To find a good rabbit vet around you start here:

www.rabbit.org/vets/vets.html

and find a House Rabbit Society-recommended vet.

Not all vets have rabbit experience or deal with rabbits.  It is key to get a good rabbit vet.  Also, rabbits should have a yearly exam (apart from being taken in when they are not doing well).

Lee