Outcome for client-owned domestic rabbits undergoing limb amputation: 34 cases (2000-2009)

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Surgery
• Small Animal Medicine
• Exotic Pet Care

Background:

• Limb amputation is a surgical procedure sometimes necessary for domestic rabbits.
• Understanding the risks, outcomes, and owner satisfaction is crucial for informed decision-making.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate morbidity, function, survival, and owner satisfaction following limb amputation in domestic rabbits.
• To identify factors influencing complications and survival after amputation.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective case series of 34 domestic rabbits undergoing limb amputation.
• Survival rates were estimated using the Kaplan-Meier method.
• Owner satisfaction was assessed via interviews.

Main Results:

• Median survival time was 720 days; 18 rabbits died, 9 survived, and 7 were lost to follow-up.
• Complications, including ambulation difficulty and pododermatitis, occurred in a significant number of rabbits.
• Heavier body weight and concurrent diseases negatively impacted survival and increased euthanasia risk due to complications.

Conclusions:

• Limb amputation is tolerated by most rabbits, with high owner satisfaction.
• Complications can lead to death, and chronic issues are common.
• Careful consideration is advised for amputations in heavy rabbits or those with concurrent health problems.