My rabbit has a respiratory infection. What are the causes, symptoms, and prevention?

Question

My rabbit was diagnosed with respiratory infection and just like my vet's prediction other rabbits started having it too. He said it was due to inbreeding and that i have to give up my rabbits(24 of them). I would like to know what causes respiratory infection...how do they get it. Cant i prevent it? Is it really that, affecting my bunnies, or something else? What are the symptoms of respiratory infection? Please tell me. Pet's info: Small Animal | Rabbit | Female | unspayed

Ann Dion, DVM · Accepted Answer

Hello and welcome to Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. Respiratory infections can be either viral, bacterial or a bacterial infection secondary to a viral infection. If you have a large number of rabbits that are all inbreeding, they will have weaker immune systems and will pass these viruses around, which will lead to a group of very weak and sick bunnies. They get it by being around one another and breathing in the same air. Viruses are floating around in the environment, so unless you had each bunny individually housed, with different air venting to each one (like a research lab) then your bunnies will all be exposed. Bacteria spreads similarly. Signs of respiratory disease/infections include trouble breathing, inappetance, weight loss, decreased energy, poor hair coat, and death. You can prevent it by cleaning out your house, getting well and genetic diverse bunnies that are not allowed to inbreed (making sure they are spayed/neutered), and having the bunnies all vaccinated. Keeping the environment clean is very important as well. Best of luck with your bunnies.

My rabbit has a respiratory infection. What are the causes, symptoms, and prevention?

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