Reasons for a Bulge Below Rabbit Throat & Solutions
1. The Submandibular Pouch
It's common knowledge that adult female rabbits often have a noticeable swelling under their chins, which is a sign of maturity. In rare cases, overweight male rabbits may also exhibit this feature. Rest assured, this is a normal occurrence and there's no need for concern. However, if this swelling, known as the submandibular pouch, is affecting the rabbit's daily life and feels hard to the touch, it's advisable for pet owners to take their furry friend to the vet for a checkup as soon as possible.
2. Ringworm Infection
A swelling under the rabbit's chin might indicate a ringworm infection around the neck area. Pet owners should inspect for symptoms such as ringworm spots, hair loss, redness, and scabbing under the chin. If these signs are present, the rabbit likely has ringworm. It's crucial to isolate the rabbit immediately as ringworm is contagious. Trim the fur under the neck, clean and disinfect the affected area with hydrogen peroxide, and then apply an antifungal ointment evenly. With proper care, the condition should improve after a few weeks.
3. Inflammation
The swelling under the rabbit's chin could also be a sign of respiratory infection and subsequent inflammation. Affected rabbits may scratch the area out of itching, leading to redness and swelling that resembles a small, red bump. If this is the case, pet owners should administer antibacterial and antiinflammatory medication immediately to prevent the condition from worsening. It's important to follow the vet's advice or the medication's instructions regarding dosage to avoid potential poisoning.
4. Heat Stroke
If the rabbit has a swelling under its chin along with symptoms like yellowed urine and dry feces, it might be suffering from heat stroke. Encourage the rabbit to drink more water and offer fruits and vegetables to help cool it down. Additionally, avoid feeding the rabbit human food, as our diets tend to be high in salt and oil, which can upset the rabbit's digestive system.
That wraps up the information on why rabbits might have a swelling under their chins. I hope this information has been helpful to you. If you have any more questions about rabbit care, feel free to click on 'The Top 8 Tips for Rabbit Care' for further insights.
