pallative care for bunnies

Question
Hi Dana,  
I have two little rex does (sisters) that are 12 years old.  Toffee, the smaller of the two, has been losing weight like crazy.  I'm told this is part of her "shutting down".  I know it's unavoidable, but it doesn't make it any easier.  Her breathing is shallow and she is almost skeletal.  She is still loving and semi-active with us and with her sister.  She often sits quietly in the corner with her head tilted back a little.  She is drinking normally, and eating a lot!! She will eat two large carrots, a half head of romaine lettuce, timothy hay and a full helping of rabbit pellets in a day.  This is more than she has ever eaten, and yet she is so skinny!!  The vet has left the decision to euthenize up to me, but I feel that if she is still eating then she cannot be in paid or terribly uncomfortable.  How do I know when I should say enough?  What is your feeling on this?  I only want to do what is best for Toffee.  Please let us know.  Thank you

Answer
Dear Kathy,

If she's wasting, it's possible she is suffering from renal disease.  Is she drinking and urinating excessively?  That would be another sign of this disorder.  If she is in renal failure, the best you can do is keep her comfortable, loved, and well fed.  Ask the vet about getting a supply of metacam (an NSAID) and tramadol (a synthetic opioid), which can be given in combination for excellent pain relief, should she start to show signs of pain.

I agree with you:  If she is eating and seems happy, then why take away what life she has left?  We don't euthanize little old ladies just because they're skinny and old!  So love her and spoil her and let her have anything she wants.  Our little 13 year old Maggie gets Novasource high-calorie milk shake that helps add calories.  You have to order it via the internet, but that might be something to consider.

Maggie also gets a little spoonful of high-quality microbrew beer once or twice a week.  But I wouldn't recommend that therapy.  I just figure at her age, Maggie can have WHATEVER SHE WANTS!  So should little Toffee, if you ask me.

If she's not suffering, then I would not even *think* of ending her life.

Hope that helps.

Dana