Rabbit Syphilis written by Any.Mo
Veterinary Hospital Dr Colt Ma Cases- Recently, more rabbit
owners are aware of the importance of young rabbit health, they are bringing
their little ones into veterinary hospital for general check up more often. On
a monthly basis, 2-3 rabbits presented for syphilis skin problem around their muzzles,
genitals etc. Syphilis in rabbits is
caused by bacteria- named Treponema which is transmitted from does to offspring
at birth in contact with vagina or sexual contact. The problem can remain
incubated from few weeks to few months. Therefore, not all newly purchased
rabbits from pet shop develop syphilis right away. A stressful event can
trigger the onset of the bacterial infection as the immunity is suppressed. Clinically, areas affected
include anus, vulva, prepuce or nose, eyelid, ear pinna spread from self
grooming and cleaning. Signs of reddening, hair loss, swelling or bleeding,
ulceration may be noted. Some of them are painful to be touched if severely
infected. Regarding treatment,
antibiotic injection is recommended. Generally weekly injection is needed, 3-4x
in total should fix the problem. Other rabbits in contact with the infected one
should also be treated in order to eliminate asymptomatic carriers and re-infection.
If the rabbit is in pain, pan relief will also be administered. Disinfection- Deep cleaning and disinfection of hutches, cages, and the toilet is important to prevent a possible re-infection of one or more
animals with rabbit syphilis. With
effective treatment, rabbits can be expected to return to excellent health. I have been asked by owners whether this disease is
transmissible to humans, the answer is NO. Rabbit syphilis is not zoonotic.
Therefore, even if your rabbit has been diagnosed with syphilis, do not be
scared and abandon your rabbit as it is a very treatable disease. |
