Rabbit breathing hard, blocked nose, dry eyes. Is it a sinus issue?

Hello! A wet nose in a rabbit usually indicates nasal discharge. Nasal discharge can result from allergy, inflammation, or infection of the nasal passages or even from an infected tooth root. It is very common for rabbits to carry a bacteria called Pasteurella (often referred to as “snuffles”). This bacteria can flare up in times of stress. Most rabbits have at least been exposed to this bacteria, and there are also other bacteria and viruses that could cause similar respiratory illness. The best thing to do for Buddy would be to have him examined by your local vet who can assess the discharge and Buddys breathing and teeth. the vet may recommend blood work, X-rays, or even a CT scan of his head since that will give the best information about the nose and terth. Remember that an oral exam in an awake rabbit is fairly insensitive to disease and any root disease is not visible except with X-rays for a CT scan. Since rabbits can only breath through their nose, it’s important to get this evaluated while Buddy is doing well, since potential profession of disease could be serious. Good luck to you and Buddy!

Hello. Rabbits very commonly have upper respiratory infections. They can be from dental disease, specifically the roots, or sometimes there is a primary rhinitis. Rabbits make a very thick pus that doesn’t drain well, so when an infection is present inside the nose or nasal passages, it can be extremely hard to clear. Sometimes surgery or anesthetized nasal flushing is required. Since nothing has really helped before, I would recommend a thorough exam by a veterinarian along with blood work, skull radiographs, a deep nasal swab or nasal flush for cytology and culture. From there, any additional procedures can be recommended (dental trim, extraction, rhinoscopy, etc). Likely, Hangy will need a long course of medication (4-8 weeks) and may have relapses throughout his life. At home you can make things a bit easier on him by reducing airway irritants, keeping his cage clean, and supporting good dental health with high quality grass hay. Good luck!

Most of the signs you are describing could be compatible with an upper respiratory tract inflammation/infection or possibly to a rhinitis (inflammatory, allergic, infective). A clinical examination at your local veterinarian is essential to confirm these clinical suspicions and treat appropriately. Antibiotics may be needed. Hope this answer was helpful, but please do not hesitate to contact us again on the forum or by requesting a consultation if you have any more questions or to discuss it any further. If this answer was helpful please let us know, this will be used to improve our service!

Hello, I am very sorry to hear about your rabbit. Rabbits are predisposed to bacterial upper respiratory infections. One of the more common causes is a bacteria called Pasturella, leading to an infection called "Snuffles". If left untreated this bacteria can lead to pneumonia. Rabbits are very sensitive animals and when they become ill they are often predisposed to developing GI problems such as GI stasis. To prevent secondary problems from developing I would recommend having your rabbit evaluated by a veterinarian so that they can perform an examination and evaluate the nasal discharge. Hope this helps, good luck!

Myxomatosis causes lumpy lesions around the eyes and genitals so it seems unlikely. I think it is likely the rabbit has a response infection which is fairly common. They get pasturella in their lungs which needs to be treated with antibiotics. I would make her a vet appointment asap.

Hello. Thank you for using PetCoach. It looks like Ruby has an upper respiratory infection called "snuffles". You need to get her to a vet for an exam and treatment. She will need antibiotics to get this clear up and to keep it from getting worse. Snuffles is caused by a very aggressive bacteria and it can be fatal. Be sure to take her to a vet that is used to treating rabbits. http://www.peteducation.com/article.cfm?c=18+1803&aid=2686 http://plantationcentreah.com/exotics-and-pocket-pets/ Hope this helps. Best wishes.

I am sorry to hear about your bunny! There are many possible causes for sneezing in rabbits. We can see infections with bacteria cause sneezing in bunnies. Since only one bunny is affected the infectious cause is less likely. Irritation to the nasal passages due to things like odors/ammonia from urine in the cage or cedar shavings can occur. Foreign objects being inhaled (such as pieces of hay or shavings) can cause sneezing fits. Dental problems can also cause sneezing. Since some of these problems due require medical treatment I would recommend an examination by a vet who sees rabbits. In the meantime you can try putting a humidifier in your bunny's room if you have one and you may also bring your bunny into the bathroom while you run a steamy shower for a steam treatment for 10-15 minutes to moisten the respiratory passages.