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To avoid adverse events in humans, toxicity studies in nonclinical species have been the foundation of safety evaluation in the pharmaceutical industry. However, it is recognized that working with animals in research is a privilege, and conscientious use should always respect the 3Rs: replacement, reduction, and refinement. In the wake of the shortages in routine nonrodent species and considering that nonanimal methods are not yet sufficiently mature, the value of the rabbit as a nonrodent species is worth exploring. Historically used in vaccine, cosmetic, and medical device testing, the rabbit is seldom used today as a second species in pharmaceutical development, except for embryo-fetal development studies, ophthalmic therapeutics, some medical devices and implants, and vaccines. Although several factors affect the decision of species selection, including pharmacological relevance, pharmacokinetics, and ADME considerations, there are no perfect animal models. In this forum article, we bring together experts from veterinary medicine, industry, contract research organizations, and government to explore the pros and cons, residual concerns, and data gaps regarding the use of the rabbit for general toxicity testing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article presents the results of studies on the use of the new macrolide antibiotic tulathromycin in veterinary medicine. The information is presented according to the species of domestic animals, diseases, doses and shemes for therapy and metaphylaxis. The first section includes data for cattle and calves affected by respiratory diseases, caused by M. haemolytica, M. bovis, H. somni and P. multocida, and keratoconjunctivitis caused by M. bovis. The second one shows data for swine and pigs affected by the respiratory pathogens A. pleuropneumoniae, P. multocida, H. parasuis, B. bronhiseptica and M. hyopneumoniae. A third group presents information about small ruminants with manifested respiratory diseases caused by M. haemolytica, P. multocida, Mycoplasma spp., Pseudomonas spp. and hoof diseases from Dehelobacter nodosus. Fourth group includes the first test results of Rhodococcus equi, Streptococcus zooepidemicus, Theileria equi, Babesia bovis and Babesia bigemina, causing diseases in horses. The fifth section includes reports of treated rabbits most commonly suffering from P. multocida respiratory infections. Finally, data from new studies on the use of tulathromycin in exotic animals and cases of some tropical diseases are listed. The provided information gives proof for the high sensitivity of the tested pathogens to tulathromycin and high clinical and economical effect that is efficient in single dose of 2.5 mg/kg. Compared to other antibacterial agents there is no resistance according to data available so far. Local accumulation and prolonged persistence of the drug in lung tissues, that result in a treatment regime with a single low-volume dose (2.5 mg/kg), are associated with positive clinical outcome in domestic animals: large ruminants, pigs, small ruminants and rabbits with respiratory diseases caused by M. haemolytica, H. somni, P. multocida and M. bovis; A. pleuropneumoniae, B. bronchiseptica, P. multocida, H. parasuis and M. hyopneumoniae; S.aureus, C. pseudotuberculosis and Streptococcus spp. and P.multocida. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, several studies have been conducted on Muse cells mainly due to their pluripotency, high tolerance to stress, self-renewal capacity, ability to repair DNA damage and not being tumoral. Additionally, since these stem cells can be isolated from different tissues in the adult organism, obtaining them is not considered an ethical problem, providing an advantage over embryonic stem cells. Regarding their therapeutic potential, few studies have reported clinical applications in the treatment of different diseases, such as aortic aneurysm and chondral injuries in the mouse or acute myocardial infarction in the swine, rabbit, sheep and in humans. This review aims to describe the characterization of Muse cells, show their biological characteristics, explain the differences between Muse cells and mesenchymal stem cells, and present their contribution to the treatment of some diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Some prior evidence has suggested that lop‐eared rabbits and those with brachycephalic skull conformations have a higher dental disease risk. This retrospective cohort study reports the frequency and conformational risk factors for primary‐care veterinary diagnosis with dental disease in companion rabbits in the UK. Methods: Anonymised VetCompass clinical records were manually reviewed to confirm dental disease cases. Risk factor analysis used multivariable binary logistic regression modelling. Results: From 161,979 rabbits under primary veterinary care in 2019, the 1‐year period prevalence of overall dental disease was 15.36% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 14.78–15.96). The prevalence of dental disease affecting incisors was 3.14% (95% CI: 2.87–3.44), and for cheek teeth it was 13.72% (95% CI: 13.17–14.29). Neither lop‐eared conformation nor brachycephalic skull conformation was significantly associated with increased odds of dental disease. Dental disease odds increased as age increased and decreased as bodyweight increased. Limitations: This study retrospectively accessed clinical records, so breed names may sometimes be imprecise. Conclusion: The high overall prevalence of dental disease represents a major welfare concern for all companion rabbits, regardless of conformation. This information can be used to encourage regular routine dental assessment of rabbits of all conformations to promote earlier diagnosis, paying particular attention to older rabbits and those with low bodyweight. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of the present study was to investigate the efficiency of aqueous - methanol (30:70%) extract of Melia azedarach L. fruit against paracetamol - induced hepatitis in rabbits. This research was conducted at, University of Diyala, College of Veterinary Medicine. Twenty mature, 1-2 years old male rabbits, were kept in a room at 20- 27°C. After 2 weeks of adaptation, they were divided into four groups of, 5 animals each. Rabbits of the first group were left without any treatment (without extract and without treatment with paracetamol) to serve as a (negative control group). The rabbits in the second group, were treated orally (PO) with aqueous - methanol (30:70%) extract of M. azedarach fruit (300 mg / kg body weight) dissolved in 2 ml saline, daily for 9 days. On the 10th day, hepatitis was induced via treatment with paracetamol (250 mg / kg body weight (b.w) dissolved in 2 ml saline) intraperitoneally (IP), daily for 9 days, the treatment with extract was continued till the end of the study on day 18th (hepatoprotective group). Meanwhile, rabbits of the third group were left without treatment during the first 9 days, then hepatitis was induced on 10th day, as described previously, accompanied by treatment with the same dosage of the extract, dissolved in 2 ml saline for 9 days (PO) (hepatocurative group). Rabbits in the fourth group were not treated with extract during the study, but on the 10th day they were treated with paracetamol, 250 mg / kg b. wt. dissolved in 2 ml saline (I. P.) for 9 days (control group). All animals, were euthanized on day 18 and, blood was collected and serum was obtained to estimate levels of serum enzymes (RMS, ALT, AST, TSB, TSP, BUN, and Creatinine). The dependent parameters were heart rates, respiratory rates, body weight and body temperature, in addition to some hematological parameters, clotting and bleeding times, total and differential leucocytes count. The results revealed that the levels of biochemical parameters increased in paracetamol- treated rabbits in comparison with the non- treated groups, while the total protein content decreased. The extract exhibited a significant reduction in biochemical parameters (P<0.05). In conclusion, it is obvious that Sibahbah aqueous alcohol extract possesses a significant hepatoprotective effect against paracetamol - induced hepatitis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article focuses on rabbits across the U.S. likely vulnerable to deadly virus causing disease in the West. Topics include the U.S. habitat for eastern cottontails stretches from the Great Plains to the East Coast, overlapping with the native ranges of desert and mountain cottontails in the west and New England cottontails in the east.

The article reports on Rabbit hemorrhagic disease virus serotype 2 spreading among wild rabbits. Topics include USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service spokesman Mike W. Stepien said May 27 that RHDV- 2 had been detected this spring in domestic species, wildlife, or both in Arizona, California, and Texas; and Record indicates the death rate associated with RHDV-2 infections appeared to rise as the virus spread into Italy, citing two strains isolated in 2014 and 2015.

Rabbit viral hemorrhagic disease, known as viral necrotic hepatitis or hemorrhagic pneumonia, is a contagious disease with peracute or acute outcome and characterized by hyperthermia, prostration, hemorrhagic foamy discharge and mortality in 50-90% of cases. The main lesions are consisting in hemorrhagic diathesis, especially in lungs, liver and spleen. There are no evolution particularities regarding the age, breed, gender or species (domesticated or wild). The aim of this paper was consisting in describing the symptomatology and the pathology of hemorrhagic disease outbreak in rabbits. To the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine of Iasi were submitted for a physical examination 5 rabbits, 4 female and one male, crossbreed between Lionhead and Californian breed, 4 to 9 months old, kept in a private household, and. During the physical examination, the main symptomatology seen was consisting in sign of seizures, agitations, respiratory illness and nasal bloody and foamy discharge. Due to their bad conditions, the rabbits died shortly after the physical exam. The gross pathology was characterized by hemorrhagic diathesis, catarrhal-hemorrhagic rhinitis, laryngitis and tracheitis with the presence in lumen of a frothy and hemorrhagic liquid. The lesions seen in lungs were consisting in hemorrhagic pneumonia and edema, in liver a necrotic hepatitis, while in kidneys lesions with hemorrhagic pattern. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in zoonotic (e.g. Salmonella spp.), pathogenic, and opportunistic (e.g. E. coli ) bacteria in animals represents a potential reservoir of antimicrobial resistant bacteria and resistance genes to bacteria infecting humans and other animals. This study evaluated the prevalence of E. coli and Salmonella enterica , and the presence of associated AMR in commercial meat, companion, research, and shelter rabbits in Canada. Associations between antimicrobial usage and prevalence of AMR in bacterial isolates were also examined in commercial meat rabbits. Culture and susceptibility testing was conducted on pooled fecal samples from weanling and adult commercial meat rabbits taken during both summer and winter months (n = 100, 27 farms), and from pooled laboratory (n = 14, 8 laboratory facilities), companion (n = 53), and shelter (n = 15, 4 shelters) rabbit fecal samples. At the facility level, E. coli was identified in samples from each commercial rabbit farm, laboratory facility, and 3 of 4 shelters, and in 6 of 53 companion rabbit fecal samples. Seventy-nine of 314 (25.2%; CI: 20.7-30.2%) E. coli isolates demonstrated resistance to >1 antimicrobial agent. At least one E. coli isolate resistant to at least one antimicrobial agent was present in samples from 55.6% of commercial farms, and from 25% of each laboratory and shelter facilities, with resistance to tetracycline being most common; no resistance was identified in companion animal samples. Salmonella enterica subsp. was identified exclusively in pooled fecal samples from commercial rabbit farms; Salmonella enterica serovar London from one farm and Salmonella enterica serovar Kentucky from another. The S. Kentucky isolate was resistant to amoxicillin/clavulanic acid, ampicillin, cefoxitin, ceftiofur, ceftriaxone, streptomycin, and tetracycline, whereas the S . London isolate was pansusceptible. Routine use of antimicrobials on commercial meat rabbit farms was not significantly associated with the presence of antimicrobial resistant E. coli or S. enterica on farms; trends towards resistance were present when resistance to specific antimicrobial classes was examined. E. coli was widely prevalent in many Canadian domestic rabbit populations, while S. enterica was rare. The prevalence of AMR in isolated bacteria was variable and most common in isolates from commercial meat rabbits (96% of the AMR isolates were from commercial meat rabbit fecal samples). Our results highlight that domestic rabbits, and particularly meat rabbits, may be carriers of phenotypically antimicrobial-resistant bacteria and AMR genes, possibly contributing to transmission of these bacteria and their genes to bacteria in humans through food or direct contact, as well as to other co-housed animal species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses development of a national animal disease reporting system by the Federal animal health officials. Topics include the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service published in March 2020 draft standards for the proposed U.S. National List of Reportable Animal Diseases; pathogenic avian influenza subject to mandatory reporting under the National List of Reportable Animal Diseases, and purpose of the NLRAD across the U.S.

Gut stasis (paralytic ileus or gastrointestinal hypomotility) is a commonly seen symptom in rabbit patients. It is important to understand that it is not a diagnosis in and of itself. Any rabbit that is not eating, or is not passing droppings should be viewed as an emergency case. Prompt examination and comprehensive treatment allow stabilisation and enable the veterinary surgeon to both improve the immediate welfare of his patient and to get it well enough to undergo diagnostic testing to determine the cause of the gut stasis. In the longer term, treatment of gut stasis alone is insufficient and a diagnosis of the underlying cause will allow better long-term control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents a study on the incidence of uterine disorders in pet rabbits. Topics include the high frequency of uterine adenocarcinoma and endometrial hyperplasia, complications such as severe anemia, uteri rupture, and metastasis in the lungs, liver, or bones, and diagnostic confirmation through ultrasonography. It also discusses serosanguineous vaginal discharge, hematuria, and ovariohysterectomy in rabbits.

This work paper is a long list of hereditary diseases observed by us or reported by others in domestic rabbit (or European rabbit, Oryctolagus cuniculus). Due to its large phenotypic and genetic variability, O. cuniculus is an excellent model for classical genetics, including here inheritance of color patterns and genetic disorders. For that reason, this mammalian model is widely used in human biomedical or veterinary research, together with rat, Guinea pig, and mouse. All these species are called also "human models" because of their similarity with humans in physiological response. Most part of the genetic disorders presented in this study was observed also in humans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gastric dilatation is an acute and life-threatening condition in pet rabbits commonly caused by an intestinal obstruction with pellets of compressed hair. Surgery is normally considered to be the treatment of choice to alleviate the obstruction. However, for various reasons such as restrictions by the owner, a high anaesthetic risk due to the critical condition of the patient or concurrent diseases, surgical treatment may be impossible. In a three-year period, 145 cases of gastric dilatation were treated medically with a combination of metoclopramide, metamizole, balanced fluid electrolyte solution with glucose and syringe feeding. No gender or breed predisposition could be noted. Four animals were euthanased, three of them directly after diagnosis. Eleven animals died, eight of them on the day of presentation. The medical treatment was successful in 130 cases (89 per cent) with a mean treatment time of three days. The animals were released from hospital when eating and defecating normally. Although the use of medical treatment of gastric dilatation has to be thoroughly considered, especially regarding the severity of obstruction, the painfulness and the animal's welfare, the good survival rate observed with these animals makes it a good option for all cases where surgical treatment is contraindicated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus) are a popular companion animal, food animal, and animal model of human disease. Abnormal red cell shapes (poikilocytes) have been observed in rabbits, but their significance is unknown. The objective of this study was to investigate the prevalence and type of poikilocytosis in pet rabbits and its association with physiologic factors, clinical disease, and laboratory abnormalities. We retrospectively analyzed blood smears from 482 rabbits presented to the University of California-Davis Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital from 1990 to 2010. Number and type of poikilocytes per 2000 red blood cells (RBCs) were counted and expressed as a percentage. Acanthocytes (>3% of RBCs) were found in 150/482 (31%) rabbits and echinocytes (>3% of RBCs) were found in 127/482 (27%) of rabbits, both healthy and diseased. Thirty-three of 482 (7%) rabbits had >30% acanthocytes and echinocytes combined. Mild to moderate (>0.5% of RBCs) fragmented red cells (schistocytes, microcytes, keratocytes, spherocytes) were found in 25/403 (6%) diseased and 0/79 (0%) healthy rabbits (P = 0.0240). Fragmentation and acanthocytosis were more severe in rabbits with inflammatory disease and malignant neoplasia compared with healthy rabbits (P<0.01). The % fragmented cells correlated with % polychromasia, RDW, and heterophil, monocyte, globulins, and fibrinogen concentrations (P<0.05). Echinocytosis was significantly associated with renal failure, azotemia, and acid-base/electrolyte abnormalities (P<0.05). Serum cholesterol concentration correlated significantly with % acanthocytes (P<0.0001), % echinocytes (P = 0.0069), and % fragmented cells (P = 0.0109), but correlations were weak (Spearman ρ <0.02). These findings provide important insights into underlying pathophysiologic mechanisms that appear to affect the prevalence and type of naturally-occurring poikilocytosis in rabbits. Our findings support the need to carefully document poikilocytes in research investigations and in clinical diagnosis and to determine their diagnostic and prognostic value. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article aims to highlight the various infectious diseases that domesticated rabbits may face in their lifetime. Without early treatment or vaccination, some of these diseases can be fatal. It is vital that we, as veterinary professionals, are confident and able to educate owners to ensure that they maintain good husbandry and health for their companions in order to maximise their lifespan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oral gallium maltolate ( Ga M) pharmacokinetics ( PK) and intestinal tissue ( IT) concentrations of elemental gallium ([ Ga]) and iron ([ Fe]) were investigated in a rabbit model of equine proliferative enteropathy ( EPE). New Zealand white does (uninfected controls and EPE-infected, n = 6/group) were given a single oral Ga M dose (50 mg/kg). Serial blood samples were collected from 0 to 216 h post-treatment ( PT) and IT samples after euthanasia. Serology, q PCR, and immunohistochemistry confirmed, or excluded, EPE. Blood and IT [Ga] and [Fe] were determined using inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry. PK parameters were estimated through noncompartmental approaches. For all statistical comparisons on [Ga] and [Fe] α = 5%. The Ga log-linear terminal phase rate constant was lower in EPE rabbits vs. uninfected controls [0.0116 ± 0.004 ( SD) vs. 0.0171 ± 0.0028 per hour; P = 0.03]; but half-life (59.4 ± 24.0 vs. 39.4 ± 10.8 h; P = 0.12); Cmax (0.50 ± 0.21 vs. 0.59 ± 0.42 μg/mL; P = 0.45); tmax (1.75 ± 0.41 vs. 0.9 ± 0.37 h; P = 0.20); and oral clearance (6.743 ± 1.887 vs. 7.208 ± 2.565 L/h; P = 0.74) were not. IT's [Ga] and [Fe] were higher ( P < 0.0001) in controls. In conclusion, although infection reduces IT [Ga] and [Fe], a 48 h GaM dosing interval is appropriate for multidose studies in EPE rabbits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses a study on the clinical and histological effects of the temporary occlusion of the rabbit nasolacrimal duct and point using cryanoacrylate adhesives. The study aimed to determine the clinical and histological effects of occluding the nasolacrimal ducts and points of rabbits. The study found that both adhesives were effective in obstructing the nasolacrimal ducts and points of rabbits and their application and handling are easy and complication-free.

The article explores various types of urogenital diseases in rabbits. It highlights the characterististics of normal rabbit urine and outlines the factors that contribute to the risk of urogenital disease such as husbandry, diet and neutering status. It outlines the symptoms, diagnosis, and possible treatments of various urogentital diseases including sludgy bladder, urolithiasis, and cystic endometritis.

Objective--To determine the pharmacokinetics of meloxicam (1 mg/kg) in rabbits after oral administration of single and multiple doses. Animals--6 healthy rabbits. Procedures--A single dose of meloxicam (1 mg/kg, PC) was administered to the rabbits. After a 10-day washout period, meloxicam (1 mg/kg, PO) was administered to rabbits every 24 hours for 5 days. Blood samples were obtained from rabbits at predetermined intervals during both treatment periods. Plasma meloxicam concentrations were determined, and noncompartmental pharmacokinetic analysis was performed. Results--The mean peak plasma concentration and area under the plasma concentration-versus-time curve extrapolated to infinity after administration of a single dose of meloxicam were 0.83 µg/mL and 10.37 h⋅µg/mL, respectively. After administration of meloxicam for 5 days, the mean peak plasma concentration was 1.33 µg/mL, and the area under the plasma concentration-versus-time curve from the time of administration of the last dose to 24 hours after that time was 18.79 h⋅µg/mL. For single- and multiple-dose meloxicam experiments, the mean time to maximum plasma concentration was 6.5 and 5.8 hours and the mean terminal half-life was 6.1 and 6.7 hours, respectively. Conclusions and Clinical Relevance--Plasma concentrations of meloxicam for rabbits in the present study were proportionally higher than those previously reported for rabbits receiving 0.2 mg of meloxicam/kg and were similar to those determined for animals of other species that received clinically effective doses. A dose of 1 mg/kg may be necessary to achieve clinically effective circulating concentrations of meloxicam in rabbits, although further studies are needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective--To determine pharmacokinetics, efficacy, and adverse effects of topically ad- ministered selamectin in flea-infested rabbits. Animals--18 healthy 5-month-old New Zealand White rabbits. Procedures--On day 0, rabbits (n = 6/group) received topically applied selamectin at doses of 10 or 20 mg/kg or received no treatment. Each rabbit was infested with 50 fleas (Cteno- cephalides fells) on days -1, 7, and 14. Live and dead flea counts were performed on days 2, 9, and 16, and treatment efficacy was calculated. Blood samples were collected prior to drug administration and at 6 and 12 hours and 1, 2, 3, 5, 7, 10, 14, 21, and 28 days after treatment for determination of plasma selamectin concentrations via high-performance liquid chromatography with mass spectrometry. Pharmacokinetic parameters were determined. Results--On day 2, efficacy of selamectin against flea populations of rabbits in the 10 and 20 mg/kg treatment groups was 91.3% and 97.1%, respectively, but by day 9, these values decreased to 37.7% and 74.2%, respectively. Mean terminal half-life and maximum plasma concentrations of selamectin were 0.93 days and 91.7 ng/mL, respectively, for rabbits in the 10 mg/kg group and 0.97 days and 304.2 ng/mL, respectively, for rabbits in the 20 mg/kg group. No adverse effects were detected. Conclusions and Clinical Relevance--Selamectin was rapidly absorbed transdermally and was rapidly eliminated in rabbits. Results suggested that topical administration at a dosage of 20 mg/kg every 7 days is efficacious for treatment of flea infestation in rabbits. Further studies are needed to assess long-term safety in rabbits following repeated applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT: This forum considers a case of ataxia and head tilt in a rabbit. E. cuniculi is often suspected when rabbits present with these signs but other underlying infection and pathology may be responsible. The authors consider possible differential diagnoses as well as diagnostic tests and treatment options that might be undertaken. Post mortem findings and control strategies for E. cuniculi are also discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There are many causes of life-threatening illness in rabbits and good nursing, palliative treatment and supportive care are important aspects of their treatment. Rabbits hide signs of serious disease and may be in a critical state before they are presented for veterinary treatment. Emergency care is often needed and an assessment of the rabbit's condition is necessary to decide on appropriate treatment. Radiography and blood sampling are important parts of this assessment. Rabbits are also prone to gut stasis, which is a preventable life-threatening condition that is often a secondary complication of other diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT: Dental disease and odontogenic abscesses are common in rabbits. Diagnosis of the tooth or teeth involved and extent of disease in the surrounding tissues requires careful inspection of several views of skull radiography. The best approach to treatment in most cases is surgical in combination with antibiotic treatment. In severe cases euthanasia should be considered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article offers information related to veterinary medicine in Australia. It states that the rate of myxomatosis in domestic rabbits has increased due to unusual wet conditions in the country. It cites the social and environmental impact of purchasing veterinary chemical medicine from online transactions and abroad. It also discusses the importance of reviewing the papers related to evidence-based medicine, which were presented at the Australian Veterinary Association (AVA) Annual Conference.

The article discusses a study that investigated the effects of intravenous (IV) medetomidine-midazolam-fentanyl (MMF) injections in rabbits. It states that such injections are through vascular ultrasonography and echocardiography. Results revealed that MMF IV caused a serious decrease in blood flow at the left common carotid artery and at the abdominal aorta associated with decrease in heart rate. In conclusion, the study suggests that MMF should be used in rabbits with utmost care.

Abstract: State-of-the-art improvements in how we feed and provide medical and surgical care for the rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus) have resulted in a greater lifespan for this common pet animal. The rabbit consultation should begin with a discussion on husbandry, behavior, and nutrition, and then should be followed by a thorough patient history and physical examination. Having a support staff that can help with client education, patient restraint, and diagnostic sample collection, along with appropriate use of diagnostic equipment and knowledge of common rabbit health issues, demonstrates a hospital''s proficiency in rabbit medicine. Proper use of sedation and analgesia, and knowledge of the basic critical care needs and methods for fluid therapy in rabbits, will improve patient treatment and case success. A review of the diagnostic workups and therapeutic plans associated with common rabbit illnesses will help the veterinary practitioner develop a comfort level and expertise with this unique species. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Objective To document the clinical presentation, diagnostics, treatment, and clinical outcome of rabbits with dacryocystitis. Materials and methods This retrospective study included 28 rabbits diagnosed with dacryocystitis. Available records of clinical and ophthalmological examinations, bacteriological samplings, diagnostic imaging, and treatment were reviewed. A telephone survey of the owners was conducted to evaluate recovery and recurrences. Results The mean age of the 28 rabbits presenting with ocular discharge from the nasolacrimal duct was 4.4 years. In 25 rabbits (89%), dacryocystitis was a unilateral finding. No underlying cause could be determined in 10 animals (35%). Dental malocclusion was observed in 14 rabbits (50%) and rhinitis in two animals (7%), with one animal showing both symptoms (4%). One rabbit (4%) presented with panophthalmitis. Most animals (96%) received topical antibiotic treatment. If necessary, additional topical (acetylcysteine, vitamin A ointment, nonsteroidals) or systemic treatment (antibiotics, nonsteroidals, paramunity inducer, and glucocorticoids) was provided. The mean duration of therapy was 5.8 weeks. The nasolacrimal duct was flushed in 27 of 31 affected eyes (87%). Dentistry was performed in 80% of the animals suffering from malocclusion. Regarding the clinical outcome, 12 animals (43%) showed complete recovery, eight rabbits (28%) were euthanized, three (11%) died due to unrelated causes, and three (11%) were lost to follow-up. Two rabbits (7%) continue to display signs of dacryocystitis and are being treated symptomatically by the owners. Conclusions This study reports the clinical presentation, treatment, and outcome of dacryocystitis in rabbits and outlines the importance of examination of the oral cavity, diagnostic imaging, and bacteriologic sampling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of dexamethasone, propolis and gentamicin in the treatment of experimental induced corneal ulcer in rabbit. A bilateral corneal ulcer burn was induced by a filter paper disk (5mm diameter) immersed in 1N NaoH and then put it for 30 seconds on the central axis of corneas in 80 rabbits. These animals were divided equally into four groups. The corneal ulcers were treated topically as follows: Animals of the first group (control group) treated with sterile normal saline; were the animals of the second group treated with dexamethasone 0.1% eye drops> Animals of the third group were treated with aqueous extract of propolis 1%; and the animals of the forth group were treated with gentamicin eye drops 0.3%. Drugs were instilled 2 times daily (every 12 hours) for 7 days. The clinical signs of corneal ulcer were evaluated by ophthalmoscope and fluorescent technique. After sacrificing the animals the corneas underwent routine histopathological examination on the day 1st, 3rd, 5th and 10th days after the treatments. The propolis and Dexamethasone show improvement in corneal ulcer, for the first 3 days after the injury and without any signs of complication, obvious conjunctival edema and eyelid swelling were observed in control and gentamicin groups. In control group became inflamed with pus formations while in propolis and gentamicin groups remained clear without pus. Histopathological examination reveals that the infiltration of inflammatory cells in both groups of dexamethasone and propolis were fewer when it compare with groups of control and gentamicin. These findings indicate that propolis may be an alternative to others treatment of corneal ulcer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses a study which investigated the effects of ethyl-cyanoacrylate and octyl-cyanoacrylate on experimental cornea lesions in rabbits. The study included 36 rabbits that underwent lamellar karetectomy and were histopathologically evaluated. The corneal epithelization and collagen organization were found to have occurred without severe complications. Study authors concluded that octyl-cyanoacrylate is better than ethyl-cyanoacrylate.

Thirty three pregnant rabbits were exposed to vapour of 10% formaldehyde (12 ppm) throughout the gestation period to know its effect on newborns. The results showed no abortion or foetal mortality but there were some anomalies(23.8) among the newborns rabbits which includes: meromelia (6.8%), encephalocele (6.1%). Oligodactyly (4.1&). Umbilical hernia (3.4%) and Short tail (3.4%); besides that small for date and decrease in the body weight at the newborns were aIso noticed, These findings suggest that formaldehyde is a teratogenic agent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was planned to determine whether a short period dexamethasone treatment induce alveolar hone loss or not, therefore, twenty six male albino rabbits were divided into three groups as follow: Test groups 1(10 rabbits) received 1.56 mg/kg dexamethasone intraperitoneal injection daily for two weeks, test group II (10 rabbits) received 3.12 mg/kg dexamethasone intraperitoneal injection daily, and the control group (6 rabbits) received saline solution for same period. The animals were sacrificed and histological sections were prepared from the alveolar bone of molar areas of mandible, as well as morphomotric analysis at osteoclasts number was performed. The results showed a significant increase in the number of osteoclasts, which indicates that bone loss, is quite inevitable secondary to dexamethasone treatment even in a short period of treatment for two weeks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The influence of experimentally Escherichia coli-induced fever (EEIF) on the pharmacokinetics of ofloxacin was evaluated. Ofloxacin was administered @ 20 mg.kg-1 body weight intravenously to a group of eight healthy rabbits and compared these results to values in same eight rabbits with EEIF. Pharmacokinetic parameters of ofloxacin in normal and febrile rabbits were determined by using two compartment open kinetic model. Peak plasma level (Cmax) and area under the plasma concentration-time curve (AUC0-α) in normal and febrile rabbits did not differ (P>0.05). However, area under first moment of plasma concentration-time curve (AUMC0-α) in febrile rabbits was significantly (P<0.05) higher than that in normal rabbits. Mean values for elimination rate constant (Ke), elimination half life (t1/2β) and apparent volume of distribution (Vd) were significantly (P<0.05) lower in febrile rabbits compared to normal rabbits, while mean residence time (MRT) and total body clearance (Cl) of ofloxacin did not show any significant difference in the normal and febrile rabbits. Clinical significance of the above results can be related to the changes in the volume of distribution and elimination half life that illustrates an altered steady state in febrile condition; hence, the need for an adjustment of dosage regimen in EEIF is required. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective--To compare penetration of IV administered marbofloxacin in intraocular fluids of healthy and inflamed eyes in rabbits with endotoxin-induced endophthalmitis. Animals--35 pigmented rabbits. Procedures--Endophthalmitis was induced in the right eye via intravitreal administration of Escherichia coil endotoxin. The left eye was a control eye. After 24 hours, a single dose of marbofloxacin (4 mg/kg, IV) was administered. Groups of rabbits (n = 5/group) were euthanized 0.5, 1, 2, 4, 6, 10, and 18 hours later, and blood and ocular fluids were collected. Marbofloxacin concentrations were determined via reverse-phase high-performance liquid chromatography, and pharmacokinetic analysis of the data was performed with a monocompartmental model. Results--Mean area under the aqueous concentration-time curve was significantly lower in control eyes (1.64 ± 0.07 µ•h/mL) than in inflamed eyes (3.31 ± 0.11 µg•h/mL). Similarly, drug penetration into aqueous humor was 33% and 65% for control eyes and inflamed eyes, respectively. Mean area under the vitreous humor concentration-time curve for control eyes (1.75 ± 0.05 µg•h/mL) was significantly less than for inflamed eyes (2.39 &plusn; 0.16 µg•h/mL). In the vitreous humor, corresponding penetrations were 34% and 47%, respectively. Conclusions and Clinical Relevance--Penetration of marbofloxacin into the aqueous and vitreous humor after IV administration was significantly enhanced by intraocular inflammation, suggesting a role for this antimicrobial in the prophylaxis or treatment of bacterial endophthalmitis caused by susceptible pathogens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Case Description—A 1-year-old sexually intact female Netherland dwarf rabbit was examined because of a 3-week history of signs of lethargy, decreased appetite, left unilateral exophthalmia, a previous draining sinus from a left maxillary facial abscess, and bilateral nasal discharge. Clinical Findings—The rabbit weighed 1.0 kg (2.2 lb) and had a body condition score of 1.5/5. Physical examination revealed generalized muscle atrophy, bilateral mucopurulent nasal discharge, and severe left-sided exophthalmia. Diagnostic investigation revealed anemia, neutrophilia, severe dental disease, a superficial corneal ulcer of the left eye, and a retrobulbar abscess. Treatment and Outcome—Stomatoscopy-aided dental trimming, tooth removal, and abscess debridement were performed. Antimicrobials were flushed into the tooth abscess cavity, and antimicrobial treatment was initiated on the basis of cytologic findings and results of bacterial culture and susceptibility testing. Two months after the initial surgery, minimal exophthalmia was evident and no further physical, radiographic, or ultrasonographic changes were evident. Clinical Relevance—Stomatoscopy is a valuable technique that can facilitate diagnosis, treatment, and serial reevaluation of rabbits with dental disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]