Itchy ears ...

Question
Hi Dr. Krempels,

I have two rabbits, one is 3 years old and the other one is 3 months.  One is kept in my office and the other one at home.  

They both love to be patted especially in the forehead and around their ears.  Recently they both show symptoms of scratchy ears and chins.  Sometimes they even drop their ears onto the floor.  

I look inside their ears but I do not see any traces of fleas or inflammation.  

I have carpet in my office but hard wood at home.  Sometimes, I do see tiny creatures (smaller than aphid) on the hard wood floor.  I wonder is it the cause of their itchy ears?!!

I look forward to hearing your professional opinion.

Thanks,
Joanna

Answer
Dear Joanna,

Sometimes a bunny will be bothered by a few ear mites and not show obvious outward signs.  If these were my bunnies, I would ask the vet about treating them with Revolution (selamectin), which is effective against fleas and mites.  It is very safe, used as directed (two drops on the back of the neck, and two drops just above the base of the tail), and very effective.  It's even better than its older relative, ivermectin.

I've not seen rabbits with contact allergies very often.  And if you've had carpeting all along without seeing itchiness, I doubt it's the carpet.  I would try the Revolution and if that doesn't worlk, then further diagnostics will be necessary.

To find a good rabbit vet near you, please use the list linked here:

www.rabbit.org/vets

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

Dana