Sickness?

Question
My son's dwarf rabbit Thumper who is 7 1/2 years old began to act strangely last night-loses his balance,falls over and then sits still with heavy breathing. Not constant as he is moving around but obvious enough. Has been healthy.  Does this sound serious?

Answer
Dear Marion,

This certainly sounds serious enough for a visit to the vet.  It could be early signs of Encephalitozoon cuniculi (which often shows up at about this age) or even some infection that's making him weak.  Please see:

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

to find out how to tell if he's sick, and what to do until you can get him to the vet.  To find a good rabbit vet (and you will really need a vet who is good with rabbits--not just a dog/cat vet!), please use the list linked here:

www.rabbit.org/vets

I would not waste any time getting him to the vet immediately.  This could be very serious.  Please let me know if you have any other questions.

Dana