Pyoderma - bacterial skin infection in rabbit

Pyoderma is an infection of the skin where pus is present. It is usually associated with bacteria colonising an area of the skin that is particularly susceptible, eg a scrape or skin fold. This condition is usually related to moist dermatitis where the skin is wet and fragile leading to a compromised skin barrier where bacteria can invade and cause infection. Pyoderma can be superficial or quite severe.

Commonly affected areas on the rabbit are the face, dewlap (roll of skin under the chin), genital-perianal region and hocks.

In the rabbit, pyoderma is most commonly caused by bacteria like Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginsa (if this bacterium is involved then the fur turns a 'blue' colour), Pasteurella multocida and Fusobacterium necrophorum.

Pyoderma is often secondary to another problem that has led to persistent wetness and breakdown of the skin's integrity.

Obesity can commonly cause excess skin folds around a heavy dewlap or perineal folds where urine and faeces can collect and remain in contact with the skin. These folds can harbour a moist environment where bacteria can rapidly grow and cause skin inflammation. Some breeds are predisposed to having large skin folds: French Lops and Giant English Lops, other breeds for their long, dense fur: Dwarf, Miniature Lops and Angora.

Dental disease is another common cause of pyoderma due to persistent moisture under the chin from drooling or faulty drinking.

Urine scalding is another significant cause of pyoderma that occurs due to urine soaking the fur around the external genitalia and resulting in severely inflamed skin. With good health and husbandry, it is not normal for urine to soak the fur so if this occurs, prompt attention is required to prevent a serious skin infection from developing.

Epiphora (constant tearing from the eyes) is another condition which can lead to pyoderma of the facial area. Excess tearing is usually the result of dental disease or an eye injury.

Skin wounds such as traumas, injection-site reactions, insect bites and pressure sores on the feet, are all potential areas where pyoderma can occur.

Immunosuppression and parasite infestation may also make rabbits more susceptible to pyoderma.

If your rabbit has pyoderma, you will see an area of the skin that is usually red, sore, and moist, and there may be hair loss, pustules, ulceration, swelling or bad odour to the skin. The hair around the area may be matted, wet, and have a yellow or brownish colour due to the purulent (pus) discharge. You may also notice your rabbit acting depressed, reluctant to eat or inactive.

Symptoms of Rabbit Pyoderma

1. Skin Lesions: Look for red, inflamed, and sometimes pus-filled lesions on the skin. These can be anywhere on the rabbit's body.

2. Hair Loss: Affected areas might have hair loss due to the infection.

3. Scratching: Rabbits may scratch or bite at the affected areas due to discomfort.

4. Changes in Behavior: Sometimes, a rabbit might become more irritable or display changes in behavior due to the discomfort caused by the infection.

Your vet will take a complete history of the problem and perform a thorough examination of your rabbit.

Some diagnostic tests may be performed to identify the organism and to investigate any underlying cause that may also need treatment.

Your vet will usually clip the fur in the affected area to make it easier to clean and keep dry.

A topical antiseptic cream may be prescribed which will usually be applied at least twice a day after cleaning the site. An oral/systemic antibiotic is often required in severe cases. Pain medications may also be helpful since the skin may be very sore.

Any underlying disease will usually also be treated.

Treatment

1. Diagnosis: A veterinarian will diagnose pyoderma through a physical examination of the rabbit's skin and might perform tests like skin scrapings to identify the causative bacteria.

2. Antibiotics: Pyoderma is typically treated with antibiotics prescribed by a veterinarian. The choice of antibiotics will depend on the type of bacteria causing the infection and its sensitivity to specific drugs.

3. Topical Treatments: In addition to oral antibiotics, your veterinarian might recommend topical treatments such as antiseptic washes or ointments to clean and heal the affected skin.

4. Wound Care: If pyoderma is a result of a wound, wound care is essential. Keeping the wound clean and properly dressed can prevent further infection and aid in healing.

5. Isolation: If you have multiple rabbits, it might be necessary to isolate the infected rabbit to prevent the spread of the infection.

6. Underlying Health Issues: Sometimes, pyoderma can be a sign of an underlying health problem, such as a weakened immune system. Addressing these issues is crucial for preventing recurring infections.

Pyoderma can be prevented by limiting some of the predisposing factors, such as ensuring your rabbit doesn't become overweight, that it is fed a diet high in hay and grass to help prevent dental/faecal problems, that it lives in a clean environment with good sanitation, airflow, minimal excess moisture, and proper drinkers. In general, good management and regular veterinary examinations will prevent the development of the disease.

If you notice any signs of pyoderma, promptly take your rabbit to the vet as the condition will continue to get worse without correct veterinary treatment.

Prevention

1. Clean Environment: Maintain a clean living environment for your rabbits, regularly removing waste and providing fresh bedding.

2. Regular Check-ups: Schedule regular veterinary check-ups to monitor your rabbit's overall health.

3. Proper Diet: Provide a balanced diet to ensure your rabbit's immune system is strong.

4. Preventing Injuries: Be cautious about your rabbit's interactions with other animals and sharp objects to prevent injuries that could lead to pyoderma.