Metacam

Question
Our house bunny was nursed through myxi and survived. He was on antibiotics, metacopleramide and metacam until well. He developed a problem with his front legs over christmas and the vet said it was floppy rabbit syndrome and might be e.cuniculi. He was treated with panacure and metacam and seemed to get better, but still had a problem with one leg. The vet said it was neurological damage and nothing could be done about it, just reduce the meds. We took him for a second opinion, where he was diagnosed with sceptic arthritis in his shoulder. He has completed an 8 week course of antibiotics and is on 3 drops of metacam, twice a day. We have been told to try and reduce the metacam, but to watch for any problems with his leg. If we are unable to get him off the metacam, is he ok to stay on it long term ? He is a french-lop cross buck, approx. 2 years old, and 5.3 kilos. He is currently active and seems to be using his leg ok, but the vet is concerned that long term metacam might cause other problems. Is this correct ?

Answer
Dear Colin,

Long term metacam can put a strain on the kidneys, and is not recommended.  If your bunny still needs pain control, then I would suggest an opioid, such as tramadol (synthetic, but very effective) that doesn't have the dangerous side effects of long-term metacam or other NSAIDs.

I hope that helps.

Dana