Eye Infections in Rabbits: Causes, Signs and Treatment

Many rabbits will develop eye infections over the course of their lifetime. Importantly, eye infections are often an indication of an underlying problem, so you should look into why the infection has happened rather than just focusing on treatment.

Although rabbits are masters at hiding the signs when they are unwell, eye issues are usually easy to spot. Once you realise there is an issue with your rabbit’s eye, book them in for a check up right away, as eye problems can progress quickly.

What Causes Eye Infections in Rabbits?

There are a number of potential causes for ocular infections.

Bacterial Infections

Pasteurella multocida is a regular bacterial infection detected in pet bunnies and it is associated with ‘snuffles’ (a respiratory infection) as well as conjunctivitis. Treatment usually involves an antibiotic called Enrofloxacin, but it is difficult to fully clear the infection.

Blocked or Narrowed Tear Ducts

‘Dacryocystitis’ is the name for a blocked tear duct, and affected bunnies tend to have milky white eye discharge and matted or missing fur around the eye.

Typically there will be an underlying cause, though it can be genetic and congenital. This is particularly true in small, brachycephalic breeds such as Lionheads and Dwarf Lops.

Dental Disease and Tooth Root Problems

Dental disease is incredibly common in rabbits and, very sadly, is regularly missed by owners and vets alike. As well as eye issues, these rabbits can experience tooth grinding, drooling, weight loss, and reduced grooming.

Encephalitozoon Cuniculi (E. Cuniculi)

E. Cuniculi is a protozoal infection that affects the brain, kidneys and eyes. As well as eye issues, you may notice a head tilt, wobbly walking, and incontinence.

Myxomatosis and Other Causes

In the UK, all rabbits should be vaccinated against Myxomatosis as it is highly contagious and usually fatal. As well as swollen eyes, rabbits may have swelling of the genitals, a fever, and breathing difficulties.

Early recognition is important so the rabbit can be isolated, and local rabbits can be vaccinated if needed.

What Are the Signs of an Eye Infection in Rabbits?

You’ll notice something is amiss when you look at your rabbit’s eyes, and clinical signs can progress rapidly.

Discharge, Crusting or Weeping Eyes

For some rabbits, you will see a teary, milky or darker discharge. This can be dry and crusted or wet.

Redness, Swelling or Cloudiness

The conjunctiva (the membranes that protect the eyes) are often red and swollen. The eye itself may appear cloudy due to the inflammation.

Squinting or Keeping the Eye Closed

Due to the pain, it is not unusual for the rabbit to keep their eyelids squinted or completely shut.

Hair Loss or Staining Around the Eye

The chronic moisture causes the skin around the eyes to become red and inflamed and this frequently leads to hair loss and bald areas.

Behaviour Changes and Signs of Pain

While rabbits are experts at masking the signs when in pain you may notice new and subtle changes in their behaviour. This can include mild lethargy, a reduced appetite, shaking, tooth grinding and a reluctance to be social.

Is an Eye Infection in Rabbits an Emergency?

There are certain criteria which would qualify an eye problem as an emergency. Contact us immediately if you are concerned for an emergency with your rabbit.

Sudden Vision Loss or a Bulging Eye

If your rabbit suddenly cannot see, this is urgent. They may have a dilated pupil and be banging into things. If there is a cataract, this would be visible as a cloudy or white opacity in the lens.

Another red flag would be an eye that has prolapsed and is visibly bulging out of the socket. This can occur after a trauma such as a fox attack. Less pronounced bulging can be due to high pressure within the eye, also called ‘glaucoma’.

Rapid Worsening or Severe Swelling

If the eye suddenly looks dramatically worse or the conjunctiva are very swollen, this is a concern. This is especially true if the rabbit is showing signs of pain or their vision seems to be affected.

Signs of a Serious Infection

We must always be conscious of the potential for a serious infection such as Myxomatosis. This is especially true if the rabbit is unvaccinated. So, if they are showing additional signs that could indicate Myxomatosis, they should be seen urgently.

What Should You Do if Your Rabbit Has an Eye Infection?

If you notice what you think is the beginning of an early infection, there are some things you can do to help.

Do Not Attempt to Treat the Eye at Home

While it may seem tempting, do not turn to any over the counter drops to treat the infection. Applying the wrong medicine could do more harm than good.

Helping Before the Vet Visit

If there is a lot of discharge or crust, this can be gently cleaned away using cotton balls dipped in warm water, gently rubbing from the portion of the eye closest to the nose outwards.

Ensure your bunny is warm enough and that the air is well ventilated and free of any dust, smoke or debris.

How Do Vets Diagnose Eye Infections in Rabbits?

When you present your rabbit at the clinic, the veterinarian will want to know about the signs you have noticed, and any recent changes in your rabbit’s environment.

Physical Examination

The vet will examine your bunny all over, focusing on their eyes and mouth. This should include a visual exam of the back teeth, which tends to mean using an otoscope.

Fluorescein Staining for Corneal Ulcers

The surface of the eye can be stained with a green dye called Fluorescein, to check for any scratches or ulcers. This stain can be repeated in a few days to ensure the ulcer is healing as expected.

Nasolacrimal Duct Flushing

These ducts run from the eyes to the nose, and can be flushed to remove any debris or blockages. This is typically done under local anaesthesia, and the saline flush should hopefully be seen exiting the nostrils.

Dental X-Rays

Dental X-rays are an important part of the diagnostic work up when tooth root issues are suspected to be at play. X-rays can help identify overgrown roots and abscesses.

How Are Eye Infections in Rabbits Treated?

How your bunny is treated will depend on the cause of their eye problem.

Topical Eye Drops and Antibiotics

Most rabbits will have topical antibiotics applied daily for a week or so. Some will also require anti-inflammatories or steroids.

In cases of Pasteurella, the rabbit is given oral antibiotics for a minimum of two weeks. Be aware that in-contact animals, including ferrets, guinea pigs, and dogs, can be sources of the infection.

Flushing the Tear Duct

As well as a diagnostic procedure, flushing the duct can also form part of the treatment plan. For some rabbits, removing a blockage can resolve their chronic tear staining problem.

Treating Underlying Dental Disease

Dental disease should be addressed, which can include filing down overgrown teeth. Some abscesses may require surgical draining.

Medication for E. Cuniculi

If E. cuniculi is identified, treatment will begin right away. This will typically include Fenbendazole and anti inflammatories, given for about a month.

Can Rabbits Recover From Eye Infections?

Most rabbits will be able to recover from eye infections, but it does depend on a few factors.

Factors That Affect Recovery and Outlook

Delaying treatment can lead to chronic changes and scarring within the tear ducts, leaving them permanently narrowed.

Some conditions are notoriously difficult to treat, including established dental disease.

Recovery also depends on the age of the rabbit and their overall health.

Long-Term Eye Care and Monitoring

Those who have had eye issues in the past will be more likely to develop them going forward. Owners should be aware of this and should keep a close eye for the recurrence of any symptoms, seeking veterinary care promptly.

How Can You Prevent Eye Infections in Rabbits?

You will not always be able to prevent eye infections, but certain changes can help make a difference.

Regular Dental Check-Ups

Early identification of dental issues allows for treatment to start early, helping to prevent the development of abscesses and systemic infections.

Vaccination Against Myxomatosis

Every rabbit should be vaccinated against Myxomatosis, as the consequences of contracting this disease can be devastating. Vaccines can be given from as early as five weeks of age and should be repeated annually.

Keeping the Living Environment Clean

A clean and dry environment can prevent bacteria from multiplying. Keep dust levels down and remove urine and stool very regularly.

Get Emergency Vet Care for Your Rabbit

Do not hesitate to contact an emergency vet if your rabbit is obviously unwell, particularly if they are not eating or not producing stool.

Eye infection in rabbits FAQs

How do I know if my rabbit has an eye infection?

Signs of an eye infection can include swollen conjunctiva, squinting or excessive tear staining.

Can a rabbit eye infection clear up on its own?

Most infections do require treatment and it is always best to have your rabbit’s eye examined by a vet.

Is conjunctivitis in rabbits contagious?

Some cases of conjunctivitis are contagious, including Pasteurella and Myxomatosis. However, if the conjunctivitis is caused by something like an overgrown tooth, it should not be.