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Severe Lead Toxicosis in a Lionhead Rabbit
Kristen M Walter1, Karyn Bischoff2,3, Ricardo de Matos4
1College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, 14850, USA.
Summary
Severe lead toxicosis in rabbits can be successfully treated with calcium disodium EDTA (ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid) and supportive care. This case report details the successful treatment of a rabbit with severe lead poisoning.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Toxicology
- Animal Health
Background:
- Lead toxicosis is a serious condition in animals, with limited reports in rabbits.
- Previous treatments for lead toxicosis in rabbits have not included oral calcium disodium EDTA.
Observation:
- A 7-year-old male Lionhead rabbit presented with lethargy and hyporexia.
- The rabbit exhibited anemia and morphological changes in red blood cells indicative of lead toxicosis.
- Radiographs revealed gastrointestinal stasis and metallic opacities in the cecum, with a blood lead concentration of 792 μg/dL.
Findings:
- The rabbit was diagnosed with severe lead toxicosis and secondary gastrointestinal stasis.
- Treatment involved a 4-day course of oral and subcutaneous calcium disodium EDTA.
- The rabbit showed a positive response to the treatment and was discharged.
Implications:
- Severe lead toxicosis in rabbits can be effectively managed with a combination of calcium disodium EDTA and aggressive supportive care.
- This case highlights the successful use of oral calcium disodium EDTA in treating lead toxicosis in rabbits, a novel approach.
- Findings suggest that prompt diagnosis and treatment can lead to favorable outcomes for rabbits suffering from lead poisoning.
