Dermatologic Problems of Rabbits

Most skin conditions in rabbits result from a wide variety of pathogens, including parasites (the most frequent cause), fungi, bacteria, and viruses. In addition, reports of noninfectious diseases of domestic rabbits are increasing. This article discusses rabbit skin disease based on the predominance of one of four clinical signs: pruritus, scaling or crusting, alopecia with minimal pruritus, and nodules. Miscellaneous conditions are also discussed. Although a number of these diseases may be presented with variable or multiple clinical signs, it is often helpful to approach skin disease in rabbits from the perspective of the most likely differential diagnosis. R abbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus) are becoming increasingly popular as house pets. Skin diseases may be the most common reason owners bring their pet rabbits to the veterinarian. Skin diseases are also very common in laboratory rabbit colonies and may interfere with the quality and conditions of research. Most of these skin conditions result from such pathogens as parasites (the most frequent cause), fungi, bacteria, and viruses. Reports of noninfectious diseases of domestic rabbits are increasing as well, perhaps because owners desire better and more complete care of their rabbits. This article discusses a wide range of rabbit skin diseases based on the predominance of one of four clinical signs: pruritus, scaling or crusting, alopecia with minimal pruritus, and nodules. Miscellaneous conditions that do not fit well into this scheme are presented at the end of this article. Although rabbits affected by many of these diseases are presented with variable or multiple clinical signs, it is often helpful to approach dermatologic disease in rabbits from the perspective of the most likely differential diagnosis. PRURITUS Pruritus is arguably the most common clinical sign resulting in presentation of rabbits to veterinarians. Clinicians must keep in mind that pruritus may result in other clinical signs such as alopecia and crusts. CE 90 Vol. 25, No. 2 February 2003 www.VetLearn.com *Adapted from White SD, Bourdeau PJ, Meredith A: Dermatological problems of rabbits, Semin Avian Exotic Pet Med 11:141–149, 2002, by permission of the publisher. n Rabbits are increasing in popularity as house pets, and skin disease may be the most common reason that owners seek veterinary care. n Infestation with the mite Psoroptes cuniculi could be the most common skin disease in rabbits; it is the most frequent cause of otitis in this species. n Rabbit skin diseases with zoonotic potential include infestation with Cheyletiella spp and dermatophytes. n Venereal spirochetosis (rabbit syphilis), caused by the bacterium Treponema cuniculi, is not a