bunny eye is runny.

Question
Our little rabbit has developed a runny eye, which I noticed yesterday. It started as a little redness around the eyelid, but has become a swollen on the top lid and is weeping.  He had a bunny altercation years ago and was scratched on his eye, resulting in cataracts on the afflicted eye.  I don't know if this previous injury has anything to do with his condition now.  He's let me wipe the surrounding area gently with a clean rag and warm water to get some of the goo off,  but it's tender and sore.  His general behavior seems fine; he's eating and hopping around like normal, but he's getting to be an older bunny and I'm worried.  I was hoping you might be able to suggest anything to alleviate his problem or discomfort until we can get him to the vet.

Anything you can suggest would be very welcome.  Thanks very much,
Sincerely, MerielRose

Answer
Dear Meriel,

What you're doing now is the best thing you can do until he's seen by a good rabbit vet:

www.rabbit.org/vets

Warm, moist compresses will keep the eye comfortable and clean.  But the sooner the problem is diagnosed and treated, the better, of course.  Signs like what you describe can be caused by many different things, including a corneal injury, glaucoma, a dental problem affecting the eye, etc.

A good rabbit vet will know how each of these should be appropriately treated.

I hope this helps.

Dana