Baby rabbit hasnt opened eyes

Question
I have a litter of two babies that are 15 days old.  The little runt opened his eyes days ago.  The big guy, on the other hand, still has both eyes completely crusted over.  Even when I gently try to help, nothing much happens.  Should I be worried at this point?  Is a trip to the vet maybe in order?  I don't want our vet to think I just jumped the gun on coming in.  Thanks!

Answer
Dear Suzanne,

Please get the baby to the vet without delay.  If the eyes are not yet open, there could be a real problem, as they should be open by about day 10-12.  If the eyes are not stimulated properly at the right stage, the baby could be blind for life.  So it's essential that you get him to a good vet ASAP for help, if you cannot get the eyes open.  Find a good vet here:

www.rabbit.org/vets

Try applying a warm, moist compress to the eye, such as a warm, moist cotton ball.  When the crust is quite wet, gently rub the seam of the eyelids with a moist cotton swab, but be *very* careful not to damage the eye.  If you can get the eye just a bit open, that's progress.  But he'll need veterinary help if you can't get them open all the way.  If there is an eye infection, antibiotic drops and corneal debridement might be necessary, but don't give up on him.  He'll be fine with the proper care and treament.

Please also read:

www.bio.miami.edu/hare/breeding.html

Hope this helps!

Dana