skin sore

Question
Hi,
My daughters Netherland dwarf Blue Otter Rabbit has a little sore on his neck under his chin.  Its not scabbed up but it is red and the fur around the area is thinning. Its not very big about the width of the tip of a pen cap.  It does look irritated, but not bleeding.  I have put some triple antibiotic on the spot but he keeps licking it off.

Can you help?

Terri

Answer
Dear Terri,

Two big things add up:  Netherland Dwarf + sore under the chin = molar spurs (or other painful dental problem).

Dental problems are very common in short-faced breeds, though a vet who is not experienced with rabbits often will not even think to look for them.  Please read:

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

The bunny is drooling a bit, and because saliva is caustic, it's burning the spot under his chin.  You can find a good rabbit vet who can diagnose and treat your bunny's dental problems here:

www.rabbit.org/vets

I hope this helps. Please write back if you have any other questions.

Dana