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Retrospective study identifying risk factors for dacryocystitis in pet rabbits
Joanna Hedley1, Victoria Ede1, Charlotte Dawson2
1Beaumont Sainsbury Animal Hospital, Royal Veterinary College, London, UK.
Background:
Dacryocystitis has been suggested to be a relatively common condition in pet rabbits and is often associated with concurrent disease. The aim of this study was to investigate potential risk factors associated with dacryocystitis in a pet rabbit population.
Methods:
A retrospective review of medical records from all rabbit cases evaluated at a single first opinion/referral UK exotics clinic between 2015 and 2018 was performed.
Results:
Dacryocystitis was identified in 55 of 821 rabbits (6.70%) examined over the study period. Of those rabbits with dacryocystitis, dental disease was found in 24 rabbits (45%), respiratory disease in 20 rabbits (38%), aural disease in seven rabbits (13%) and concurrent ocular disorders in 15 rabbits (23%). Breed status was found to be a significant risk factor, with Lionhead/Lionhead cross and Dwarf Lop/Dwarf Lop cross rabbits being more likely to have dacryocystitis.
Conclusion:
These results suggest that a breed predisposition for dacryocystitis may exist, particularly for the popular Lionhead and Dwarf Lop rabbits, and veterinarians should advise clients on this accordingly.
