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Abscesses
Abscesses are one of the more common problems that
is encountered in our bunny patients. They are often caused by Pasteurella
multocida, however a large number of other bacteria including Staphylococcus
and Pseudomonas have also been isolated and cultured. Mixed infections
are also common. Unlike abscesses in cats and dogs, rabbit abscesses contain
very thick material and thus drain poorly.
Why do abscesses form?
An abscess can form anywhere that the skin is broken or punctured, allowing
bacteria to enter the deeper layers of skin and proliferate. It takes
about 7-10 days from the time the bacteria enters the body until pus is
formed. Lumps can appear and seem to grow rapidly in size overnight. Abscesses
of the head are often a result of dental problems. If the teeth are involved,
the rabbit commonly will experience difficulties in eating and become
anorexic. A diagnosis of an abscess is made by placing a large bore needle
into the mass and aspirating its contents. The material can then be examined
under a microscope. Often multiple abscesses are present.
How are abscesses treated?
The method of treating the abscess depends on it's size and location.
The contents of the abscess should be cultured in order to determine which
antibiotic will be most effective. Thick-walled abscesses can be surgically
removed in their entirety; others are lanced and their walls curetted,
resulting in a large opening left to scar in naturally.
Information Supplied by Dr. Sarah Basset DMV,
Oakridge Animal Clinic.
London, Ontario
Read more:
Abscesses: Injectible Penicillin Offers New
Hope (Taken from OREO newsletter of summer 2002)
Jasmine: A story of determination & courage
(Taken from OREO newsletter of Fall 2000)
Detailed articles on treatment
options:
AIPMMA
Bead Treatment
Management of Abscesses of the Head in Rabbits.
Bicillin
treatment
Successful Eradication of Severe Abscesses in Rabbits with Long- Term
Administration of Penicillin G Benzathine/Penicillin G Procaine. Written
by Marcy E. Rosenfield (Moore).
Links to related articles:
Abscesses
and Severe Wounds
This is a link to a collection of articles on abscesses, including treatment
options and personal accounts about rabbits suffering from abscesses.
A must read!
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