Bunny cut on lip

Question
Hi,

I have a mini lop bunny, and today I discovered a cut on her lower lip, that looks as if she may have bit it. It's already scabbed over, but it looks like there may be a bit of puss underneath the skin. I went over the scab with some peroxide on a q-tip, and the scab is already starting to peel, but I'm unsure of what to do about the puss, or if I should even worry about it. Below is a picture of the wound.

http://i32.photobucket.com/albums/d3/Guerpublic/bunnycut1.jpg
(the white bits on the scab portion is peroxide)

Her behavior seems completely normal, and she doesn't seem to be in any pain, but I'm concerned about the long term effects.

There isn't really a qualified rabbit doctor anywhere near where I live, so I'm hoping you can give me a bit of advice on what I should do. Any help is much appreciated, I love her very much and would hate for something to happen to her.

Thanks

Answer
Hi Stephanie

I looked at the picture and I wouldn't really worry about it.  Since it is already scabbing over it is starting to heal.  The body will reabsorb the puss.  I would worry if it got so big or disgusting that it looks like her lip is going to burst.

I really shouldn't tell you this because I am not a doctor but I had a rabbit get stung in the face by a bee.  The wound got filled with pus and it was about 10 times the size of your little bunnies lip.  I lanced it myself and put penicillin cream on it.  Obviously you aren't going to want to use penicillin cream since it is on her mouth but just keep it clean.

Please remember that I am telling you this as a breeder and not an animal caregiver.  If your rabbit has an infection the best thing is to find a veterinarian.  Sometimes it is a few hour drive for just about anyone to find a good rabbit doctor but if your rabbits life is in danger it is worth it.  Make sure that she is able to eat and drink.

I hope this helps you and I hope you understand my view point.

Good luck

Pam