Management of Snuffles in Rabbits

Management of “snuffles” in rabbits

Respiratory problems are commonly encountered in pet rabbits and one of the most common reason for presentation to a veterinary practice. This certainly represents a challenge to the general practitioner as specific anatomic knowledge is required to be able to confidently and efficaciously handle these cases. Rabbits are almost obligate nasal breathers due to the position of the epiglottis engaged over the soft palate, separating the oral cavity from the respiratory tract (1,2). This anatomical feature can result in often significant and debilitating respiratory compromise when the upper respiratory tract is diseased. Mouth breathing is only seen in cases of severe respiratory distress. The volume of the thoracic cavity is small in rabbits and respiration is mainly diaphragmatic, which can result in breathing impairment when the intra-abdominal pressure in increased (3). The rabbit is often used as animal model of rhinitis in humans. Topographical studies have described in detail the anatomy of the paranasal cavities in this species (4). However, the terminology still remains ambiguous and confusing (3,4,5,6,7). Primary or secondary disease of the upper respiratory tract can be due to bacterial agents or, rarely, to viral, fungal or parasitic pathogens (2). However, upper respiratory illness may also be associated with dental disease, traumatic injuries, foreign bodies, neoplasia and other miscellaneous conditions (2). […]