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 <font color='green'>(Morisse 1978)</font color>. 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). | 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 <font color='green'>(Morisse 1978)</font color>. 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). |