Radiographic diagnosis of small intestinal obstruction in pet rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus): 63 cases

To identify radiographic features that can be used to aid in the diagnosis of small intestinal obstruction in pet rabbits.

Retrospective study comparing radiographic features of 63 cases of confirmed intestinal obstruction with 50 abdominal radiographs taken of rabbits without gastrointestinal disease. Abdominal radiographs were examined for gastric size, gastric contents, small intestinal dilatation and gas within the large intestine and caecum.

Gastric size, gastric contents, small intestinal dilatation and gas within the large intestine and caecum were all features that differed between rabbits with small intestinal obstruction and rabbits without gastrointestinal disease. Radiographic features associated with small intestinal obstruction included severe gastric dilation, gastric contents primarily consisting of liquid and gas, small intestinal dilation and absence of large amounts of gas in the caecum and large intestine.

Observation on gastric size, small intestinal dilatation and gas within the large intestine and caecum aid in radiological diagnosis of small intestinal obstruction in rabbits and so can guide appropriate treatment.