My baby rabbit got milk in its nose. Is it at risk for pneumonia?

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!

Hello there, Unfortunately, this sounds like he may have aspirated milk which can quickly lead to pneumonia in a pup this young. I would monitor Carter and his temperature very carefully (99.5-102.0 is normal) for signs of infection which include lethargy, weakness, labored breathing, and decreased appetite. If this occurs, I'd recommend getting Carter to the closest emergency veterinarian as soon as possible. At his young age and size, he can become dehydrated and very ill very quickly. Here are links from a website I trust. The first is on hand rearing pups, the second is on pneumonia. https://veterinarypartner.vin.com/default.aspx?pid=19239&id=4951456 https://veterinarypartner.vin.com/default.aspx?pid=19239&id=4952113 I hope this helps. I wish you and Carter the best of luck.

Pneumonia isn't guaranteed if milk is aspirated once, but it can happen and it would take a few days for it to develop. I would continue to monitor him, and should his breathing become raspy, his appetite decreases, or he become lethargic, I would take him into the vet right away.

If your bunny has nasal discharge and sounds congested, he may have an upper respiratory infection that may improve with an antibiotic that is safe for rabbits such as baytril. If there is no nasal discharge/congestion, he may have an environmental allergy, possibly to the bedding/hay in his cage. A trial of a non shaving bedding such as Care fresh (a cotton bedding) may help. 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! 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!

Thanks for reaching out about your rabbit. It is not a kitten and kitten replacer often causes gastrointestinal upset. A veterinary clinic or wildlife rehabilitation society should be contacted as soon as possible for assistance. Try to keep water intact high to stave off dehydration. Clean the rectal area and remove feces to prevent re-ingestion. good luck.