Pneumonia in rabbits: what to know

Signs may include fast or laboured breathing, nasal discharge, sneezing, reduced appetite, low energy, fever or a change in droppings. Rabbits often hide illness, and a respiratory problem can be advanced before it becomes obvious. Bacteria, inhaled food or liquid, dental disease and irritating housing conditions can contribute. A veterinarian may examine the nose, mouth and chest, assess hydration, and use chest imaging or samples to guide treatment.

Contact a rabbit-experienced veterinarian the same day for breathing changes or reduced eating. Keep the rabbit calm, warm and in a well-ventilated, smoke-free area. Offer familiar hay, greens and water without forcing anything into the mouth. Do not syringe-feed a rabbit that is struggling to breathe or may have swallowed food incorrectly. Avoid human medicines and leftover antibiotics, since some drugs are dangerous for rabbits. Clean dusty bedding and separate a visibly ill rabbit from companions while seeking advice.

Treat open-mouth breathing, collapse, severe weakness, blue or grey gums, inability to swallow, or complete refusal of food as an emergency. A rabbit that stops eating can develop gut stasis alongside the lung problem. Rapid deterioration, marked nasal discharge or multiple sick rabbits may indicate a serious infection, including sepsis, and should not wait for a routine appointment.

Ask whether dental disease, aspiration or infection is suspected, how to support eating safely, and whether bonded companions need examination. Share changes in droppings, housing dust, recent dental work, medicines, appetite and contact with other rabbits.