My rabbit is coughing and breathing hard. Can rabbits get asthma?

Question

Took Binky to the vet because she has labored breathing and cough/sneezing on and off for 6 months. No nasal or eye discharge. Appetite and energy normal. Vet took xrays and said it looks like asthma but never heard of rabbits having that. Can a rabbit develop asthma and how would I treat it? Pet's info: Small Animal | Rabbit | Female | unspayed | 6 years and 7 months old

Dr. Strydom, DVM · Accepted Answer

Rabbits are not known to get asthma; it is possible I suppose but that would very rare. It is more common for them to have pneumonia or other types of respiratory disease. It could even be a sinus issue from a bad tooth which happens a lot in rabbits. Did you use a vet that is well versed in treating rabbits? Did your vet do any blood testing or other diagnostics? Did they take x-rays of just her chest or also her skull/head? I strongly suggest you get a second opinion before starting any treatment. The treatment for asthma is usually steroids which are contraindicated for use in rabbits. Antihistamines can be used though.

My rabbit is coughing and breathing hard. Can rabbits get asthma?

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