Rex with problem nose and eyes

Question
We were given 3 rex rabbits, at first just their noses were very dry looking, now around their eyes also. Noses are NOT runny and NO watery eyes just severe dry almost crusty looking around eyes and on noses. They seem healthy other than this but it seems to be getting worse.  Mites? Ears are clear and clean
so I did not think mites. Please advise...

Answer
Dear Carol,

You're describing the classic symptoms of mange, which is caused by parasitic mites. There are several different species of mites that inhabit rabbits, each of which causes different types of symptoms, so a rabbit with mange might not also have symptoms of ear mites (though they often do).

The best treatment is Revolution (selamectin) available from your vet.  DO NOT use Frontline, as it can be deadly to rabbits.  Please see:

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

for more information.  Hope this helps!

Dana