Rabbit Salmonellosis: Causes, Symptoms, and Prevention

Section 1: The Incidence Pattern of Rabbit Salmonellosis

Rabbits can contract salmonellosis either by inadvertently consuming contaminated feed or water, or by harboring the bacteria in their intestines. Poor management, harsh weather conditions, unsanitary living conditions, or concurrent health issues can weaken their immune system, allowing the pathogen to thrive and cause illness. Rabbit salmonellosis primarily affects the digestive system or leads to endogenous infections. Pregnant rabbits, in particular, can transmit the bacteria to their offspring through the uterus and placenta, making them the primary targets of the disease.

Section 2: Symptoms and Diagnostic Methods of Rabbit Salmonellosis

The incubation period for rabbit salmonellosis typically ranges from 3 to 5 days, primarily affecting does and kits over 25 days of age. Infected pregnant rabbits often suffer from miscarriages and subsequent death, while recovered rabbits may become infertile. The disease manifests with symptoms such as septicemia, acute death, diarrhea, and abortion. Most affected rabbits exhibit diarrhea, producing frothy, mucoid feces. They may also show elevated body temperature, loss of appetite, increased thirst, and gradual weight loss. Pregnant rabbits may abort, and some cases of acute illness can result in sudden death without any apparent symptoms.

Section 3: Prevention Methods

Maintain cleanliness in rabbit housing and pens, strengthen management practices, and strictly prevent pregnant does from coming into contact with infectious sources.

Regularly screen the rabbit herd for Salmonella typhimurium, isolate and treat any suspected cases, and thoroughly clean and disinfect the housing and pens.

Administer an inactivated Salmonella typhimurium vaccine to breeding does and pregnant rabbits in the early stages of pregnancy. Each doe should receive a subcutaneous or intramuscular injection of 1ml of the vaccine, with two doses administered annually.

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