Keratopathy – Rabbit

Walden (1990) reports signs of vitamin A deficiency in adult rabbits to include a dull whitish patch developing on the axial cornea and spreading centrifugally to the limbus where pigmentation may develop. The recommended dose of vitamin A is based on the daily requirement which is 60 IU per kilogram of bodyweight. In the absence of treatment, keratitis and blindness may ensue.

Ulcerative keratitis may not always be due to external factors in rabbits. Williams (2006) describes persistent superficial epithelial erosion “similar to corneal basement membrane dystrophy of boxer dogs” and recommends fairlyaggressive treatment including grid, and superficial, keratectomy.

Keratoconjunctivitis sicca may be difficult to diagnose in rabbits – see notes on the use of the Schirmer 1 tear test.

References

• Walden (1990)
• Williams D L (2006) Ophthalmology in BSAVA Manual of Rabbit Medicine and Surgery eds Meredith A and Flecknell P, 2nd Edition 2006, published by BSAVA Quedgley Glocs