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Why are my rabbit's eyes watery? Could it be a blocked tear duct?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Small Animal | Rabbit | Male | neutered | 6 years old | 2.1 lbs

what may cause a blocked tear duct in rabbits?

4 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Ann Dion, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on August 30th, 2017

Hello and welcome to Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Blocked tear ducts in rabbits are usually due to a problem with the teeth, either an infected tooth root or a tooth not growing properly. Other causes include infections in the eye or in the region of the tear duct, as well as obesity or inflammation as contributing factors. If your rabbit has seeping eyes, especially if it is just one eye, then getting some x-rays done of your bunny's head to see if a tooth needs to be removed is a good idea. Best of luck with Dylan!

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1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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    Answered By Elva Ma DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on December 18th, 2017

    Hello, and thank you for your question. Bunnies can commonly get upper respiratory tract infections that manifest as runny eyes, nose, and sneezing. If he is also having difficulty breathing, I would also worry about pneumonia. I would encourage your friend to take their bunny to the vet, who can check for infection and prescribe the right medications to treat him. Sometimes eye problems can be related to dental issues as well, so I would make sure the vet takes a good look at his teeth. I hope this helps, and that bunny starts feeling better soon!

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    Answered By David Elbeze, DVM, MRCVS

    Veterinarian

    Published on April 1st, 2017

    Watery eyes in rabbits is usually connected to pasteurela infection, which also causes sneezing and upper respiratory infection, he will need antibiotics and antibiotics eye drops, you will need to take him to the vet for that.

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    Answered By Todd Cecil

    Veterinarian

    Published on April 24th, 2019

    Thanks for reaching out about Willow and including photos. Squinting can often be an indication of a a corneal scratch or other pain. This can cause increased tearing that drains into the nose, and therefore causing sneezing. Lacrimal duct infections can also lead to sneezing. A veterinary visit is recommended to assist with treatment. Good luck.

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