Mastitis in rabbits is a common and serious condition, typically characterized by redness, swelling, and pain in the mammary glands. In severe cases, the affected area may turn blue or purple. This condition usually occurs in lactating female rabbits around 20 days postpartum.
**Causes of Mastitis:**
The primary causes of mastitis in rabbits are often linked to poor feeding and management practices. First, overfeeding during pregnancy or immediately after birth can lead to excessive milk production that the mother rabbit cannot fully consume, resulting in milk stasis. Second, if a rabbit has insufficient milk, the kits may nibble or bite the nipples, introducing bacteria and causing infection. Third, physical trauma—such as injuries from sharp objects in the cage—can also trigger mastitis.
**Clinical Signs:**
Rabbits suffering from mastitis will show symptoms such as swollen, warm, and painful breasts. The skin may change color from red to blue or purple, and in advanced stages, abscesses may form. The rabbit’s body temperature can rise to about 41°C, and it may lose its appetite, refuse to nurse, and become lethargic. If left untreated, the condition can progress to sepsis, which is often fatal.
**Prevention:**
To prevent mastitis, proper care and feeding are essential. Before giving birth, pregnant rabbits should be fed appropriately to avoid excessive milk production. After childbirth, lactating females should have their intake of green, juicy feeds reduced, and water access limited. Providing high-quality, dry forage like legumes can help manage milk flow. For rabbits with low milk production, supplementing with milk, bean juice, or other nutrients can support nursing. Additionally, maintaining clean and safe living conditions is crucial. Cages should be regularly cleaned and disinfected, and sharp objects like glass, wire, or nails should be removed. The cage entrances should be smooth to prevent accidental injury to the mammary glands.
**Treatment:**
For early-stage mastitis (within 24 hours of onset), applying a cold compress to the affected area for 15 minutes, four to five times daily, can help reduce inflammation. If the condition has progressed beyond 24 hours, milking the breast is necessary before treatment. Warm compresses with water at around 40°C should be applied for 15 minutes, three times a day, followed by the application of a 10% ointment. A bath with peppermint water at 40°C for 15–20 minutes, three to four times daily, can also provide relief. A herbal remedy consisting of fresh dandelion, mint, and reed rhizome can be prepared and used for three to four days. Applying mint oil to the swollen area can speed up recovery.
If the breast is hard but not yet purulent, a local injection therapy can be effective. Mix 0.25–1% procaine hydrochloride (10–20 ml) with 5–100,000 units of penicillin, and inject it near the base of the breast, parallel to the abdominal wall. This treatment should be repeated every two days for 2–3 sessions.
In cases where an abscess has formed, the area should first be disinfected with iodine, then a longitudinal incision made to drain the pus. The wound should be flushed with 3% hydrogen peroxide. Penicillin should be injected directly into the abscess cavity, and additional doses should be given intramuscularly. Antibiotics such as sulfonamides may also be used to prevent sepsis, but they should be avoided in breeding females due to potential side effects. Early intervention is key to successful recovery.
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