does my rabbit have an abcess

Question
i wonder if you could help me my rabbit was attacked by myguinea pig a few weeks ago and was left with a large cut on her back this has since healed.the wound itself is clean but yesterday while grooming her a piece of fur pulled out with a large white plug attached to it i then noticed small lump under the skin when a squeezed a small amount of puss came out i have put some tea tree oil on it and some vaseline to ward off the flies. she is very well in herself and is eating and drinking plenty.the lumo feels smaller today should i just wait and see for a few days or should i seek further help for her?

Answer
Dear Kelly,

It sounds as if the bite did become infected.  Tea tree oil isn't the best thing to use, but if the lump is becoming smaller, I'd just keep an eye on it, and if possible, keep the wound open and flushed with dilute betadine solution (one tablespoon Betadine in about 1/2 cup of lukewarm, clean water).  Vaseline will merely seal in the bacteria, creating a nice environment for infection.  As long as the wound is clean, flies should not be attracted--especially if she's inside with you, where she is safest.

If the lesion doesn't fully resolve in a few days, I would get her to a good rabbit vet:

www.rabbit.org/vets

to see whether it needs to be surgically removed.  Rabbit pus is extremely thick and solid--like cheese!  So flushing an abscess will not usually resolve it.  I hope your bunny can heal this on your own, but I hope this will help in case you need a vet's assistance.

Please write back if you have any other questions.

Dana