Sore anal area

Question
My Rabbit isn't eating.  He is not lethargic, but I noticed today that his rectal area is swollen and red and looks like a raspberry.  I am not sure what it could be?

Answer
Dear Wendy,

Even if he's not acting lethargic, his inappetence is a sign that something is very seriously wrong.  It's good that he's still acting normal, but if this goes untreated, he won't be for long.

You need to find a good rabbit vet who can properly diagnose and treat the problem.  You can find one here:

www.rabbit.org/vets

The symptoms you describe could either be an anal polyp (relatively benign and easily removed with simple surgery) or something more serious, such as a prolapsed rectum.  I can't see it from here, so you need to get your bunny to the vet IMMEDIATELY for proper diagnosis and treatment.

When a rabbit stops eating, there is a very serious problem, and it must be taken seriously if the rabbit's life is to be saved.  Please see:

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

and print this for your vet:

www.bio.miami.edu/hare/ileus.pdf

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

Dana