CONTRIBUTOR(S): Claire Speight, Caroline Blake,
Ovarian cysts
Ovarian cysts
Ovarian cysts are rare in rabbits but can occur, and may be mistaken for other conditions, since the clinical signs can be non-specific and similar to other conditions.
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Why do they occur?
They may be spontaneous (develop for no apparent reason), congenital (inherited from the breeding line) or due to impaired ovulation. Follicular, cystic rete ovarii and paraovarian cysts can develop. Some are caused by hormonal influences, others are not.
What rabbits are affected?
Only unspayed female rabbits can be affected and age increases the risk. Spaying, whereby the ovaries are removed, will eliminate the risk of them occurring, and is another reason, along with preventing uterine adenocarcinoma (cancer) and behavior and welfare reasons, why spaying of female rabbits is strongly recommended.
What signs will my rabbit show?
The signs are non-specific, so may be mistaken for other conditions, but may include anorexia, gastrointestinal stasis, abdominal pain, discharge from the vulva or failure to breed. The rabbit may be asymptomatic, so show no signs at all.
How will my veterinarian diagnose the condition?
As the clinical signs are generally non-specific, your veterinarian may need to perform a variety of tests to rule out other conditions and help get a diagnosis. These may include: an abdominal ultrasound to view the ovaries, CT or MRI scans, blood tests to evaluate hormone levels, and exploratory surgery if indicated.
What is the treatment?
Your veterinarian will need to remove the ovarian cyst/s and ovary, as well as spay your rabbit to help stop it from happening again. If your rabbit is clinically unwell, they will be stabilized with hospitalization for fluid therapy, nutritional support, pain relief and medications to keep the gastrointestinal tract moving prior to surgery taking place. This helps to make the surgery and anesthetic safer for your rabbit.
Can they be prevented?
Getting your rabbit spayed when they are young and healthy will prevent ovarian cysts from occurring, as well as other reproductive diseases, such as uterine adenocarcinoma. It will also ensure your rabbit can live with a companion, which is much more likely to succeed if both rabbits are neutered and prevent unwanted litters. Two female rabbits that are unspayed are highly likely to fight and serious injures can be inflicted.
