The following lists some common items that can be used in the care of your rabbits.
Caution:
Very few drugs have been cleared for use on rabbits. Dosages are suggested amounts only. You are responsible for your own usage.
Many products are fine for show rabbits but here again I recommend consulting a vet before use on rabbits that are for human consumption, particularly in the case of antibiotics.
Terramycin Eye Ointment
Use when an eye infection is indicated when eyes are red, puffy, full of discharge, or stuck shut. Cleanse with warm water and apply ointment once a day until infection is gone.
Terramycin Soluble Powder
A water-soluble broad-spectrum antibiotic to be mixed with drinking water. Dosage for rabbits is 1/4 Teaspoon per 32-ounce water bottle, 5 - 10 days but not less than 5 days. The product is reported to be safe for use with young bunnies and helps alleviate certain bacterial respiratory and enteritis problems.(READ LABEL) It should be followed by triple acid pack or similar stomach remedy like Bene-Bac.
Aureomycin Soluble Powder
(chlortetracycline Hydrochloride)
A water-soluble broad-spectrum antibiotic to be mixed with drinking water. Dosage for rabbits is 1 Teaspoon per 1.5 liters of water 32-ounce water bottle, no longer than 10 days and not less than 5. The product is reported to be safe to use with young bunnies and helps alleviate bacterial respiratory and enteritis problems(READ LABEL). It should be followed by triple acid pack or similar stomach remedy like Bene-Bac.
Triple Acid Pack
Very effective and inexpensive product mixed with drinking water. It is good after administration of oral antibiotics to prevent diarrhea by replacing beneficial stomach bacteria.
Bene-Bac
Source of live naturally occurring stomach micro-organisms. Excellent for weanlings. Keeps stomach digestion on track by replacing beneficial stomach bacteria.
Petromalt
Used regularly it can prevent the accumulation of hair in the stomach. Follow label directions.
Nutri-Cal
High calorie dietary supplement.
Coccidiostat
A brand name in rabbit strength for the treatment of coccidiosis. Follow label directions.
Ivomec 1% injectable for cattle)
Antiparasitic used in the treatment of worms and parasites in cattle, swine etc. It comes in a variety of strengths and forms. Many people use topically, internally, IM, or subcutaneous. The dosage is 0.03 cc per pound of body weight, bunny with heavy mite infestation can be treated with this several times 14 days apart. It is generally not recommended for internal use in rabbits because of destruction of desirable intestinal flora and fauna resulting in diarrhea. Although specified for intramuscular injection there have been reported problems with large abscesses at the injection site. So most recommendations point to subcutaneous injections in the nape of the neck. Recommend getting the advice of a vet or a trusted breeder before use.
Sulquin (Sulquin 6/50)
Antiprotozoal used in treatment of coccidiosis and intestinal enteritis. Dosage: To mix a 1-% solution for treatment, mix
1 Tablespoon/gallon of water.
Preventative Measure: To mix a .04% solution for a
prevent.meas., mix 1-1/2 teaspoons/gallon of water.
Dosage Period for either one:
5 Days on med., 10 days off, then 5 days on again.
Corid Amprolium (Corid - 9.6% Solution):
Another treatment for coccidiosis.
There is a treatment dose and a preventative measure
dose:
Treatment: 2 ml. (same as cc) per gallon of water
Preventative Measure: 1 ml. per gallon of water
Dosage Period for either one:
5 days on medication, 10 days off, then 5 days on again.
Oxytocin
An extremely valuable drug for inducing labor in overdue rabbits or for increasing dilation in the case of stuck babies. Administered in the nape of the neck by injection. This drug is extremely valuable for breeders of dwarfs, particularly Netherland Dwarfs. A ND will need a dose of about 1/20 cc (20 mils). It
should be administered only when delivery is imminent - day 30 or after;or during a difficult delivery in progress. It is difficult to get a vet to prescribe a supply. EXTREME DANGER TO PREGNANT HUMANS.
Baytril
An antibiotic drug that is extremely effective at putting pastuerella(snuffles) into dormancy. It does not cure snuffles. It is also useful for other types of infections. This is another drug that is difficult to obtain a supply of. Comes in pill and injectable form.
Ear Mite Medication
Available just about anywhere for treating ear mite infestation. Gently, clean the ear with a cotton swab(in major infestation w/ lots of debris) and apply the drops per label instructions. Then take the ear between the thumb and forefinger and massage it gently near the base to work the medication in. Afterwards clean up inside the ear with a swab. In the case of longhaired breeds use care not to get a lot on the fur around the ear to avoid matting.
Cat Strength Flea Powder
For occasional flea and fur mite problems. Watch for allergic reactions.
Kaopectate or Pepto Bismol
Administer just a few drops every 4 to 6 hours to any young bunnies showing signs of diarrhea. Older animals can be given more, about 1cc. Withholding treats and pellets for 8 hours and offering large amounts of good quality hay is beneficial during treatment. Dry oatmeal will also help with an upset tummy.
Hydrogen Peroxide
Topical antiseptic for cleaning minor cuts and abrasions
Antibiotic Ointment
Apply to any injuries after they have been cleaned. These products contain Bacitracin, Neomycin and Polymyxin B in a mineral oil and petrolatum base
Preparation H
Alleviates the discomfort of sore hocks and reduces swelling. Apply the ointment twice daily to the rabbits hocks if the footpads look red and sore. Thoroughly disinfecting the cage floor, keeping it spotless and adding straw to sit on is important during treatment. To further eliminate the problem try adding a mat to the cage for the rabbit to sit on.
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Island Gems Rabbitry