Bleeding after birthing

Question
I have a doe that gave birth on May 8, 2007.  She had 9 live and 2 dead.  She lost 1 within 24 hours.  We found 2 more dead a day later and at that time we discovered her milk had not yet come in on all her teats (only 3 to be exact).  We started supplementing the babies and on day 5 we discovered 4 more dead but I really think this was due to an animal startling her and her crushing them.  So we are now down to 2 that are doing great without any supplementing at all since day 5.  The doe bled for about a week after birthing and finally stopped.  Now after 2 weeks I noticed she is bleeding again slightly.  Why would this happen after almost 3 weeks?  I am an experienced breeder but have never had this happen before or had so much trouble keeping a litter alive.  I am at a loss and hope you can help me out.  Thanks so much for your time.

Answer
Hi Angi

I have a strong suspicion that your doe has some type of uterine cancer.  She also could have damaged her uterus by having such a large litter.  

The first sign of uterine cancer is difficult pregnancies and bleeding from the vulva.  Of course without a diagnostic test from a vet its hard to be certain.  You obviously know what to do to care for the babies.  This is definitely a doe that should not be bred again.  

It is so hard for me to tell you what to do.  If she were mine I would take her to the animal hospital and have her tested.  On the other hand I know that all breeders can't afford to take an animal to the doctor every time it has a problem.  It is quite a conundrum.  I will give you my advice from both perspectives.

-- As a clinician I would tell you to take her in right away and get her examined.  She would probably have to be spayed and never be bred again.  It may save her life and keep her from suffering.

-- As a breeder I would look at the situation and decide if the rabbit is suffering.  Is she eating?  Does she appear sick?  Do I really want to keep a rabbit around that can't produce?  Is she special to me?  Would she be a good candidate to be a pet?  What is her age?  

I know it is often difficult to decide what to do.  I don't know your situation but I do know that your doe is in trouble one way or the other.  I completely understand the stance that breeders have to take on occasion.  There are some that can afford to rush their bunnies off to the vet every time they have a sniffle and their are others that can't.  I can only tell you what I think is wrong and then you would have to make the decision.  I would just ask that if the rabbit shows any signs of suffering that you do what you have to do.  

If you need any more help or have any more questions please send me a private message.  I really hope your rabbit is ok and really think it would be in its best interest to go to a vet for tests.

Good luck

Pam