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Common neurological and musculoskeletal problems in rabbits
Author(s) -
Keeble Emma
Publication year - 2006
Publication title -
in practice
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.211
H-Index - 25
eISSN - 2042-7689
pISSN - 0263-841X
DOI - 10.1136/inpract.28.4.212
Subject(s) - medicine , paresis , paralysis , disease , intensive care medicine , surgery , pathology
NEUROLOGICAL and musculoskeletal disease is often encountered in pet rabbits, with head tilt and hindlimb paresis/paralysis being the most common clinical presentations. Arthritis is also a frequent finding in older animals. The principal causes of neurological disease in rabbits include bacterial infections, such as pasteurellosis, encephalitozoonosis, trauma and toxaemia. Accurate case assessment and diagnosis of neurological and musculoskeletal problems in this species can be a challenge for the veterinary surgeon in practice. However, with the increased availability of advanced diagnostic imaging techniques, such as computed tomography, obtaining a final diagnosis is a realistic goal. This article discusses the diagnostic procedures that can be used to investigate neurological and musculoskeletal problems in rabbits, and outlines the causes and management options for the most common conditions seen.