Colibacillosis - Rabbit

Introduction

It can be encountered in pet rabbits of all ages, especially if they have been receiving doses of antibiotics that include gram-positive organisms in their spectrum of activity (Morisse 1978). This can be a particular problem if animals from different sources are mixed together on acquisition, especially in conditions of indifferent hygiene. The quality of the diet (especially the protein/cellulose ratio) and of the drinking water is also of aetiological importance. The levels of E. coli in the intestinal lumen of a rabbit rises directly in proportion to infestation with Eimeria species (coccidians).

Clinical Signs

• profuse diarrhoea
• fur-chewing
• anorexia

Treatment

Treatment is usually unrewarding.

• Oral administration of broad-spectrum antibiotics with known activity against gram-negative organisms, including E. coli.
• Antispasmolytic agents such as hysocine (Buscopan Compositum; Boehringer Ingelheim 1 mg per kilogram I/M or S/C once only or daily until the desired results are obtained)
• Fluids. Okerman (1994 p 37) warns that finding E. coli in large numbers merely reflects the ability of the organism to reproduce post-mortem and does not necessarily prove the diagnosis.

References

• Okerman, L. (1994) Diseases of Domestic Rabbits. Blackwell Scientific Publications ISBN 0-632-03804 -7. 2nd Edition