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aspiration in bunnies

22 10:32:25

Question
How can you tell if your rabbit has aspirated? What should I be looking for, coughing,sqealing?
I have been sirynge feeding her, now she is making little noises.

Answer
Hi,

it depends what kind of noises she is making.  I would say coughing, continued coughing, any appearance of troubled breathing, or trying to work something out of the lungs, would be indications something went into her lungs.  This is not good.

YOu have to always syringe feed very slowly, and never straight into the throat - this is how you get fluid into the lungs and they can die from this.  You always need to dispense liquid/pellet mush into the mouth, very slowly and watch them lick it up well (stop giving it to them if they are licking), before continuing.

If you've never done it before, I would recommend having a vet show you the proper way to do it.  This ain't something you want to wing when the pressure's on.  

If you believe she got fluid into the lungs, I'd take her to an emergency vet.  Call them before you get there so they know you're coming in and have an idea of what to prepare for.

Lee