Effective Prevention and Treatment of Rabbit Mammary Ma

Section 1: Symptoms of Mammary Mastitis in Female Rabbits

Female rabbits suffering from mammary gland mastitis often exhibit red and swollen breasts, a refusal to nurse their kits, and an elevated body temperature. The symptoms of rabbit mastitis can vary significantly based on the severity of the condition, generally categorizing into three types: common mastitis, acute mastitis, and atypical mastitis.

1. Common mastitis is characterized by symptoms such as red and swollen breasts, darkened nipples, and rough hair. When touched, the skin feels hot. Despite these symptoms, the affected doe may still be able to nurse, albeit for a much shorter duration.

2. Acute mastitis is caused by the invasion of pusforming bacteria into the mammary glands. Soon after the onset of the disease, lumps the size of black beans can be felt under the skin around the doe's breasts. Initially, the skin may appear normal, but as the condition progresses, it darkens and forms abscesses. Eventually, these abscesses rupture, releasing pus, and the rupture site usually heals on its own.

3. Atypical mastitis starts with redness in the breasts, which then gradually turns purpleblack and rapidly spreads across the abdomen. The affected doe becomes listless, her temperature rises, and she stops moving and eating. This type of mastitis is the most severe and has the highest mortality rate, with many does succumbing to the disease within 4 to 6 days.

Section 2: Prevention and Control Measures for Mammary Mastitis in Female Rabbits

To prevent and control mammary mastitis, it's crucial to maintain clean and disinfected rabbit enclosures and nesting boxes. Enhance feeding management before the doe gives birth, reducing the amount of concentrated feed to prevent excessive milk production postpartum. Here are some specific preventive measures:

1. For common mastitis, early intervention involves the owner helping to express any accumulated milk from the doe's breasts, cleaning the breasts thoroughly. Then, a paste made from ground wood ash and vinegar is applied to the affected area, applied once daily for 2 to 3 days to cure the condition.

2. In the early stages of mastitis, the owner can apply a cold compress to the doe's breasts. As the condition progresses, switch to warm compresses. Additionally, a mixture of 800,000 units of penicillin, 10 mL of streptomycin injection, and 1 mL of dexamethasone is administered intramuscularly twice daily for three days. This treatment typically resolves the symptoms and cures the doe.

3. For atypical mastitis, the same medication can be applied topically, and fish oil ointment can be applied to the wound. In severe cases, the abscess may need to be lanced and cleaned, followed by the application of antiseptic powder. Comprehensive treatment, including antibiotic injections, should also be administered to the doe.

Dr. OxygenPet has outlined the methods for preventing and treating mammary mastitis in female rabbits. We hope that rabbit owners will take extra care to prevent mastitis, especially during the lactation period.