Rabbit, dose

Question
Hi, my vetrinarian recommeded a trimethoprim medicine for my rabbit who has a case of pasturella. I could not afford buying the medicine through the clinic.  I still wanted to help my rabbit anyway that I can.  I've been able to call pharmacies, which give me prices that I can afford.  However, they ask me about the doses, similar to 400/80 mg or more or less.  What is a good dose for a dwarf rabbit who is quite healthy and active?  Thanks.

Answer
Dear Thomas,

Did the vet do a culture and sensitivity test on the "Pasteurella?"  If not, then there's no guarantee that's the problem, and also that the trimethoprim sulfa will work.  To tell you the truth, trimethoprim sulfa is generally not very effective against the pathogens that cause most of the upper respiratory infections we see.  For more complete explanations of all of this, please see:

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

The therapeutic dose of trimethoprim sulfa for a rabbit is 30mg/kg twice per day by mouth.  I hope you can get a pharmacist to compound some for you at a reasonable price.

But be sure to read that article before you proceed.

Hope that helps.  Please write back if you have any other questions.

Dana