Rabbit Paratuberculosis: Understanding and Preventing t

Section 1: Transmission Routes of Mycobacterium avium infection in Rabbits

The primary sources of infection for Mycobacterium avium, the causative agent of rabbit tuberculosis, are both infected and carrier animals. The bacteria are excreted in the feces of affected rabbits and can disseminate into the environment, making contaminated feed and water crucial in the spread of the disease. Additionally, the infection can occur through damaged skin and mucous membranes of rabbits. The disease is most prevalent in rabbits that are malnourished and have weakened immune systems.

Section 2: Symptoms and Pathological Changes

Rabbits suffering from Mycobacterium avium infection often display no overt clinical signs. Common symptoms include decreased appetite, diarrhea, weight loss, rough hair coat, and lethargy, ultimately leading to death due to extreme weakness. Many infected rabbits also exhibit symptoms such as purulent conjunctivitis, enlargement of mesenteric lymph nodes, and the presence of firm cecal worms. A small percentage may show an acute septicemic course, characterized by fever, anorexia, and rapid death.

Section 3: Distinguishing Mycobacterium avium infection in Rabbits

It is important to differentiate Mycobacterium avium infection from tuberculosis and coccidiosis. Rabbit tuberculosis has a longer course and primarily affects the lungs, liver, and stomach, where hard nodular tubercles are typically found. In contrast, coccidiosis is a shorterlived and more deadly disease, often affecting young rabbits, with lesions primarily in the liver and intestines. Symptoms include thickened and congested intestinal mucosa, gasfilled intestines, mucus, and the presence of varyingsized nodules and thickened bile duct walls.

Section 4: Treatment Methods for Mycobacterium avium infection in Rabbits

Administer streptomycin or kanamycin intramuscularly to the affected rabbits. The dosage is 3 to 4 million units per kilogram of body weight, given twice daily for 5 to 7 consecutive days.

Mix 2 to 3 ml of Kang'er Rabbit, 10 to 15 ml of 50% glucose, and 3 to 5 ml of vitamin C, and then inject intravenously. This treatment is administered 1 to 2 times per day for 3 to 5 days.

Feed the rabbits red vine juice, prepared by boiling 1.25 g of dried red vine in 3.75 kg of water until reduced to about 1.5 kg. Filter out the residue, and then boil the remaining渣 in 2.25 kg of water until reduced to 1 kg. Combine the first and second extracts, reduce to 1.25 kg, and serve to the rabbits when the temperature is appropriate.

These are the treatment methods for Mycobacterium avium infection in rabbits, as provided by Oxygen Pet Doctor. We hope this information enhances your understanding of the disease and its management.