Rabbit Fungus

Rabbits are calm by nature. They are extremely delicate animals and are prone to many diseases if proper care is not taken. Rabbit fungus is very common disease caused in rabbit. They are also prone to many bacterial and other skin infections.

Pet rabbits are prone to a number of health issues caused by fungi. The fungus and parasites cause skin diseases and disorders which result in crusty patches, hair loss, inflammation and open sores. Topical or injectable antifungal agents are given to keep rabbit free from all fungal infections.

There are several rather rare conditions caused by attacks of fungi in the rabbit. The most important are ringworm and favus. Ringworm is transmissible to man and therefore great care should be taken in the unlikely eventuality of a case appearing.

Here are some Rabbit Fungus infections:

Ringworm Infection

Ringworm infection in rabbits is a skin fungal infection which leads to red and crusty skin patches. This infection is easily spread to other animals that come in contact with the infected rabbit.

Treatment of ringworm

Ringworm in rabbits is diagnosed by a microscopic examination by using a black light. It can be treated by medication and with the help of some medicated shampoos. An oral medication for treatment of ringworm has to be given for 14 days.

Topical medication creams can also be used to treat ringworms. Fur around the infected area should be cut off before applying any topical medication. A medicated shampoo is also used to treat ringworm. While applying the shampoo care should be taken to make sure that the shampoo does not get in rabbit’s eyes.

Ringworm spores can live in rabbit’s bedding and cage for 18 months. Bedding of rabbit should be changed. To prevent the rabbit from getting infected again, rabbit’s cage should be thoroughly disinfected with a diluted bleach solution. While handling the infected rabbit, wear a pair of gloves to avoid from getting infected. These ringworms can be transmitted to humans too. Grooming instruments that are used while treating the ringworm infected rabbit should be sanitized.

Favus

Favus in rabbits is similar to ringworm. It is also a type of fungal infection in rabbits. It is mainly caused by fungus of genus achorion. The cup shaped crusty patches are seen and emit a distinctive odor. Favus may lead to permanent baldness. Head and feet are usually attacked in this infection.

Circular or oval plaques appear on the face and ears. After appearance of lesions on rabbit’s body, the fur brake off at skin surface and a scaly surface remains Rabbits with Favus should be isolated from others. Fur should be trimmed away and should be burned.

A daily application of tincture of iodine is helpful in curing this type of infection. In an alcohol mix 10 percent of salicylic acid and apply it for a week. Medicated shampoos are to be applied for cleaning the infected area.

Intramuscular injections are given in advanced stages. Providing a nutritious feed and a green succulent food will help the infected rabbit to get cure.

The other fungal infections in rabbits which may lead to skin infections are:

Hutch burn

It is essential to check the genital area of rabbit for redness and inflammation which is caused by bacterial and fungal infection. This is caused due to unsanitary conditions of a rabbit and its surroundings. Rabbit sitting on a urinated area can cause a hutch burn. If this is left unattended, area will be attacked by flies and infection will increase and may lead to rabbit’s death.

Wash the infected area with mild soap like Castile or any liquid organic and dry it with a towel in warm weather. In winters, dry it with a hair dryer. Medication and applying ointments too helps to heal the infected area.

It is believed that 99 percent of health problems in rabbits occur due to unhealthy surroundings. Hence for prevention of rabbit fungus there should be a proper management of good sanitation, feeding high quality feed, cleaning and filling water regularly in the feeding bowls. Cleaning sitting boards, ears and teeth, and protecting rabbit from cold and hot weather can result in a healthy rabbit.