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Coccidia in Rabbits

Contents

  • Coccidiosis in Rabbits: Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis and Treatment
  • Species of Coccidia in Rabbits
  • Causes and Risk Factors for Coccidiosis in Rabbits
  • Types of Coccidiosis in Rabbits
  • Hepatic Coccidiosis in Rabbits (Biliary Coccidiosis)
  • Intestinal Coccidiosis in Rabbits
  • Diagnosis: How Are Coccidia Detected in Rabbits?
  • Treatment and Care for Coccidiosis in Rabbits
  • Medications for Coccidiosis in Rabbits
  • Other Medications for Coccidiosis in Rabbits
  • Oregano and Garlic for Coccidiosis in Rabbits
  • Prevention of Coccidiosis in Rabbits
  • Dandelion Juice
  • Oregano Oil for Coccidia Prevention
  • Commonly Used Oregano Oil Products for Rabbits
  • Feed Oils
  • Oregano Oils for Drinking Water
  • Administration Tips for Oregano Oil
  • Nutrition in Coccidiosis
  • Herbs and Fresh Foods for Rabbits with Coccidiosis
  • Fresh Green Food
  • Tannin-Rich Bark and Branches
  • Hygiene and Disinfection for Coccidiosis in Rabbits
  • Daily Hygiene
  • Cleaning the Rabbit Enclosure During Coccidiosis Treatment
  • Cleaning Blankets, Carpets, and Other Fabric Items
  • Cleaning Soil and Grass Enclosures
  • Disinfection for Coccidiosis in Rabbits
  • Frequently Asked Questions About Coccidiosis in Rabbits

Coccidiosis in Rabbits: Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis and Treatment

Coccidiosis in rabbits is one of the most common parasitic diseases affecting the species. It can cause serious illness and significant losses in young rabbits, particularly around weaning. Adult rabbits can also develop clinical disease, especially if they are weakened, stressed, or otherwise vulnerable.

Coccidia are single-celled parasites that live in the rabbit’s gastrointestinal tract. During their life cycle, they multiply in the intestines and can damage the intestinal lining. Numerous species of coccidia infect rabbits, all belonging to the genus Eimeria.

These parasites are widespread and can occur in both commercial rabbit populations and pet rabbits.

Unsporulated oocyst of Eimeria flavescens in rabbit feces. Photo: Dr. M. Hallinger, exomed.

Species of Coccidia in Rabbits

Many different Eimeria species can infect rabbits, including Eimeria stiedai, Eimeria magna, Eimeria perforans, Eimeria media, Eimeria irresidua, Eimeria piriformis, Eimeria coecicola, Eimeria elongata, Eimeria intestinalis, Eimeria matsubajashii, Eimeria nagpurensis, and others.

The pathogenicity of coccidia in rabbits varies considerably between species. One important factor is the way the parasites reproduce in the intestine, a process known as merogony. Species that undergo several rounds of merogony, such as Eimeria flavescens and Eimeria intestinalis, are considered particularly pathogenic because they can cause more extensive damage to the intestinal lining.

The severity of coccidiosis in rabbits also depends on several additional factors. Rabbits may be infected with multiple Eimeria species at the same time, with different species affecting different sections of the intestinal tract and increasing the overall degree of intestinal damage.

Clinical disease may become more severe when there is a high parasite burden or when secondary bacterial infections are present. These may include infections involving certain strains of Escherichia coli or Clostridium species.

Mixed infections involving several different Eimeria species are also common in rabbits.

Causes and Risk Factors for Coccidiosis in Rabbits

Several factors can increase a rabbit’s risk of developing coccidiosis or allow an existing Eimeria infection to multiply and cause clinical disease.

  • Infection from the mother or other rabbits: Young rabbits can become infected with intestinal coccidia from their mother, through contact with other rabbits, or via contaminated food, surfaces, or soil. Exposure can also occur on meadows used by wild rabbits. Rabbits originating from large breeding facilities, pet shops, or animal markets may carry particularly high parasite burdens.

  • Introducing an infected rabbit: Before introducing a new rabbit to an existing group, it is advisable to have a fecal sample examined by a veterinarian or laboratory. Fecal examinations can also be useful when coccidiosis is suspected and as part of routine health monitoring. A heavy coccidial infection can affect the rabbit’s general condition and immune response.

  • Stress: Stress can contribute to a rapid increase in coccidia and may trigger clinical disease in rabbits that previously showed no signs. Possible stressors include introducing or bonding rabbits, unstable groups, moving to a new home, frequent or rough handling, solitary housing, insufficient space, veterinary visits, and unfamiliar surroundings.

  • Inappropriate diet: An unsuitable diet can disturb normal digestive function. Rabbits fed mainly dry food, pellets, mixed feeds, large quantities of grains or seeds, treats, excessive fruit or root vegetables, rather than a varied diet rich in fresh plant material, may be more susceptible to digestive disturbances and coccidiosis.

  • Lack of dietary variety: A very restricted diet may also be unfavorable. Rabbits benefit from a wide variety of appropriate plants and their naturally occurring secondary plant compounds. Avoiding large numbers of suitable plants unnecessarily can reduce dietary diversity.

  • A heavily contaminated environment: High levels of environmental contamination increase exposure to infectious coccidia. This can occur in overcrowded areas, unhygienic enclosures, heavily contaminated soil, or repeatedly used grazing areas. Muddy and heavily soiled areas should be avoided. Good hygiene and pasture rotation can help reduce environmental contamination.

  • Contact with wild rabbits: Wild rabbits can introduce coccidia into areas used by domestic rabbits, particularly when both populations have access to the same grazing grounds.

  • Megacolon syndrome: Rabbits affected by megacolon syndrome may be more susceptible to intestinal disturbances, including problems associated with coccidia.

  • Poor hygiene: Infrequent cleaning allows infectious stages of coccidia to accumulate in the environment and increases the risk of repeated exposure and reinfection.

  • Food contaminated with feces: Food that comes into contact with feces can become contaminated with coccidia. Using hay racks and clean food and water containers can help reduce this risk. Bowls and other feeding equipment should be cleaned regularly.

  • Disturbed gut microbiota: Disruption of the normal gut microbiota, for example following medication, anesthesia, early separation from the mother, underlying disease, or significant stress, may create conditions that favor the development of clinical coccidiosis.

  • Other illnesses: Rabbits weakened by other diseases may be less able to control an existing coccidial infection, allowing the parasites to multiply more readily.

  • Growth and weaning: Young rabbits are particularly susceptible during growth and weaning. Outbreaks may occur around the time they leave their mother or move to a new home, even when no single trigger is obvious.

  • Damp housing conditions: Persistent moisture, wet substrate, poor ventilation, and prolonged rainy conditions can favor the environmental survival and transmission of coccidia. Rabbits should always have access to dry, clean, and well-sheltered areas.

  • Lack of exercise: Adequate space and regular movement support normal digestive function and overall health and may help reduce susceptibility to digestive disorders such as coccidiosis.

Maintaining a healthy, parasite-free digestive tract is the best prevention against digestive disorders in rabbits.

Types of Coccidiosis in Rabbits

Two main forms of coccidiosis in rabbits occur: hepatic coccidiosis, which affects the liver and bile ducts, and intestinal coccidiosis, which affects the intestinal tract.

Hepatic vs. Intestinal Coccidiosis in Rabbits

  Hepatic Coccidiosis Intestinal Coccidiosis
Main location Liver and bile ducts Intestinal tract
Main species Eimeria stiedai Several Eimeria species
Common signs Weight loss, reduced appetite, poor condition, dull coat Diarrhea, bloating, digestive problems, reduced appetite, weight loss
Especially at risk Rabbits of different ages Particularly young and weakened rabbits
Diagnosis Fecal examination and liver ultrasound Fecal examination
Can be severe? Yes Yes, especially in young rabbits

Hepatic Coccidiosis in Rabbits (Biliary Coccidiosis)

Hepatic coccidiosis is more accurately described as biliary coccidiosis because the parasites multiply primarily in the bile ducts of the liver. It is caused by Eimeria stiedai.

During the parasite’s life cycle, developmental stages reach the intestine via the bile and are then excreted in the feces as oocysts. Under warm and moist conditions, these oocysts can remain infectious in the environment for months. Rabbits become infected by ingesting contaminated food, water, soil, or other material.

Affected rabbits may develop liver problems, digestive disturbances, and diarrhea. The infection can cause inflammation and enlargement of the bile ducts, and grayish-white, abscess-like nodules may develop in the liver.

Typical signs of hepatic coccidiosis include:

  • Gradual weight loss
  • Dull or poor-quality coat
  • Poor general condition
  • Reduced appetite

Because these signs can resemble those of other liver diseases in rabbits, hepatic coccidiosis should be considered as a possible differential diagnosis. A fecal examination can help detect coccidial oocysts, although they may not always be shed. An ultrasound examination of the liver can provide additional information when biliary coccidiosis is suspected.

Intestinal Coccidiosis in Rabbits

In intestinal coccidiosis, coccidia multiply in the intestinal wall, where they damage the intestinal tissue. Eimeria flavescens* and *Eimeria intestinalis are considered particularly pathogenic species, although mixed infections involving several intestinal Eimeria species are common.

Affected rabbits often develop:

  • Digestive disturbances
  • Watery or foul-smelling diarrhea
  • Bloating and gas accumulation
  • Loss of appetite
  • Weight loss

Deaths may occur, particularly in young rabbits.

Coccidiosis is an important cause of death in young rabbits. Because their immune system is not yet as developed as that of adult rabbits, they are particularly susceptible to intestinal coccidia. Female rabbits before pregnancy and recently weaned young rabbits should therefore be examined carefully for coccidia and treated if necessary.

Intestinal coccidia may also be present without causing visible signs of disease, especially when rabbits have developed partial immunity or are infected with less pathogenic Eimeria species. In many groups, numerous rabbits may carry coccidia while only weakened or particularly susceptible individuals develop clinical signs.

If the parasites multiply excessively, or if the rabbit is stressed or weakened, clinical coccidiosis can also develop in adult rabbits.

Other possible signs include:

  • Recurring gastric dilatation
  • Gas accumulation
  • Gastric overload
  • Foul-smelling diarrhea, although this occurs less commonly
  • Increased production of cecotropes
  • Soft or misshapen feces
  • Weight loss
  • Bloated abdomen
  • Reduced food intake
  • Other digestive disturbances

Young rabbits affected by intestinal coccidiosis are often emaciated, grow poorly, or show delayed development. In severe outbreaks, several young rabbits in a group may die.

In severe or advanced cases, additional signs may occur, including paralysis, discharge from the mouth and nose, fever, convulsions, lethargy, and complete loss of appetite. Examination of the intestine may reveal whitish, thickened areas of the intestinal wall.

An increased amount of uneaten cecotropes may indicate a coccidia infection.

Diagnosis: How Are Coccidia Detected in Rabbits?

Coccidia in rabbits are usually detected by examining a fecal sample using the flotation method. This technique makes it possible to identify coccidial oocysts under the microscope.

Because coccidia are not shed continuously, feces should be collected over several days. Ideally, a pooled fecal sample should be collected for at least two days, preferably three, before it is examined. The sample can be analyzed by a veterinarian or sent directly to a diagnostic laboratory.

To detect coccidia and other intestinal parasites as early as possible, it is advisable to:

  • Have rabbits tested for intestinal parasites at least once a year, ideally before vaccination.
  • Have newly acquired rabbits examined for intestinal parasites before introducing them to other rabbits.

After infection, coccidia do not become detectable in the feces immediately. The approximate time until oocysts can be detected is:

  • 5–10 days for intestinal coccidia.
  • 14–18 days for hepatic coccidiosis caused by Eimeria stiedai.

A negative fecal examination does not always rule out coccidiosis, particularly if the infection is still at an early stage or only small numbers of oocysts are being shed.

Coccidia can be detected microscopically using the flotation method. Photo: Dr. M. Hallinger, exomed.

Treatment and Care for Coccidiosis in Rabbits

Coccidiosis in rabbits should always be taken seriously and treated promptly by a veterinarian. Untreated young rabbits can deteriorate rapidly and may die from the infection or its complications. Weakened or chronically ill adult rabbits are also at increased risk. In rabbit breeding populations, severe outbreaks can lead to the deaths of multiple young rabbits.

Treatment should begin as soon as coccidia are detected in a fecal sample.

Rabbits that should be tested for coccidia include:

  • Newly acquired rabbits
  • Rabbits being rehomed
  • Young rabbits
  • Breeding rabbits before mating
  • Rabbits before vaccination, including those kept in hobby breeding, to help ensure the best possible response to vaccination

The veterinarian will prescribe an appropriate anticoccidial medication based on the individual case. Depending on the infection status and circumstances within the group, it may not always be necessary to treat every rabbit. The veterinarian’s recommendation should therefore be followed.

Medication should preferably be administered directly to each rabbit. Giving anticoccidial medication through drinking water or food can result in inaccurate dosing because individual rabbits may consume very different amounts.

Medications for Coccidiosis in Rabbits

Several medications can be used to treat coccidiosis in rabbits. The appropriate treatment should be discussed with a veterinarian.

  • Toltrazuril (Baycox®): 10–15 mg/kg (0.2–0.3 ml/kg). Toltrazuril is one of the most commonly used medications for coccidiosis, although some rabbits may refuse food or eat less during treatment. Only the white 5% suspension is suitable for rabbits. The transparent 2.5% formulation, which is intended for poultry, is unsuitable for rabbits because it is highly irritating to the mucous membranes. The previously recommended 3-3-3 treatment schedule—3 days of treatment, 3 days without treatment, followed by another 3 days of treatment—has largely been replaced by the better-tolerated 2-5-2 schedule: 2 days of treatment, 5 days without treatment, followed by another 2 days of treatment, in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendation.

  • Diclazuril (Vecoxan®): 2.5 mg/kg (1 ml/kg). Diclazuril is generally better tolerated than toltrazuril but is less widely known. In large rabbit populations where it is used repeatedly, resistance may develop more quickly. A dose of 1 ml/kg is recommended. In rabbits without clinical signs and with a low parasite burden, a single dose or treatment on two consecutive days may be sufficient. In cases of severe infestation or clinical coccidiosis, the 2-5-2 treatment schedule is recommended.

Other Medications for Coccidiosis in Rabbits

Other medications used against coccidia include:

  • Sulfamethoxypyrazine (Davosin®)
  • Sulfathiazole (Eleudron®)
  • Sulfaquinoxaline (Nococcin®)
  • Sulfadimethoxine (Kokzidiol SD®, Retardon®)

Oregano and Garlic for Coccidiosis in Rabbits

The effectiveness of oregano and garlic against coccidia was investigated in a study by Nosal et al. (2014). According to the study, both showed a better effect than Baycox®, resulted in better weight gain, and produced the lowest coccidia shedding compared with untreated rabbits and rabbits treated with Baycox®.

Oregano oil is commonly used for this purpose, and a list of suitable products can be found below.

Prevention of Coccidiosis in Rabbits

In addition to veterinary treatment, several supportive measures can help during therapy. These supplements may also be used preventively.

The following products support the gut flora and may indirectly help fight coccidia or reduce the risk of reinfection:

  • RodiCare akut
  • Rodicolan
  • Colosan
  • Herbi Colan

Dandelion Juice

Dandelion juice can be offered as drinking water. It is available from health food stores, organic shops, and online retailers.

Oregano Oil for Coccidia Prevention

Oregano oil is an effective option for preventing coccidia and reducing the parasite burden in affected rabbit populations. It is also used in agriculture, typically via drinking water.

Its effectiveness has been scientifically demonstrated in a study by Nosal et al. (2014) and has also been confirmed through owner experience.

Oregano oil can additionally help keep drinking systems free of algae, even at high temperatures. Rabbits usually accept its mild oregano flavor well. If rabbits drink only small amounts of water, oregano oil can also be mixed with their food.

Combined with regular fecal examinations, oregano oil can be a useful tool for the prevention of coccidiosis in rabbits.

Caution: Never use pure essential oregano oil. Oregano oil products intended for use in food or drinking water are highly diluted (10%) and should only be added drop by drop to food or water.

Commonly Used Oregano Oil Products for Rabbits

Feed Oils

  • Probac Brockamp Oregano Oil: 5 ml of oil per 1 kg of food, 2–3 times per week; approximately €39.00/l.
  • ROPA-B FEEDING OIL 2%: 5 ml per kg of food, 4–5 days per week; €15.95/l.
  • ROPA Poultry Feeding Oil: 5 ml per kg of food, 4–5 days per week; approximately 500 ml/€14 = €28/l.
  • Röhnfried Darmwohl: 250 ml, €12.50 (€38/l).

Oregano Oils for Drinking Water

These products contain an emulsifier. Make sure the rabbits are drinking enough. They can also be mixed into food or sprayed over food.

  • Ropadiar Solution Oregano Oil 10%: 2–3 ml per 10 liters of water; approximately €39.90/l.
  • ROPA-B LIQUID 10%: 15 ml per 10 liters of drinking water, 3–4 days per week; approximately €49.95/l.
  • DOSTO® Liquid 10%: approximately 20 ml per 1 liter of water; €25/250 ml or approximately €53.50/l.
  • Dosto WG Ropa Liquid 12%: 1 ml per 3 liters of drinking water; approximately €26/300 ml.
  • Becker Enterosan Liquid: 5 ml per 10 liters of water; €24.50/250 ml.
  • Röhnfried UsneGano Oregano-Bartflechten-Mix 3%: 3 ml per 1 liter of drinking water; approximately €46/l; daily or 2–3 times per week.
  • Procura® 10% Solution: 5–20 ml per 10 liters of water.

Administration Tips for Oregano Oil

  • Spray the diluted oregano drinking-water oil onto leafy greens using a clean plant sprayer.
  • Soak Cuni Complete in the oregano oil-water mixture.
  • Mix oregano oil into the rabbit’s favorite food.
Vecoxan® is often readily accepted when mixed with oats, banana, soaked Cuni Complete®, or another favorite food.

Nutrition in Coccidiosis

When treating coccidiosis, it is important to provide a strengthening diet that supports gut health, with a focus on herbs that promote a healthy digestive tract.

Fresh meadow forage supports healthy digestion in rabbits.

Herbs and Fresh Foods for Rabbits with Coccidiosis

A varied diet with suitable herbs and fresh plant material can support rabbits during recovery from coccidiosis.

Recommended herbs include:

  • Oregano (or its cultivated form, marjoram)
  • Thyme
  • Wormwood
  • Dandelion
  • Yarrow
  • Parsley
  • Tansy
  • Sage
  • Oak branches, including bark and leaves
  • Black cumin
  • Blueberry plants

Other herbs that support the stomach and intestines can also be included.

Fresh Green Food

Fresh green food is also important. In summer, offer grasses; in winter, suitable leafy vegetables can include:

  • Bitter salads
  • Swiss chard
  • Spinach
  • Carrot greens
  • Celery stalks

Tannin-Rich Bark and Branches

Tannin-rich tree bark and branches can also be beneficial. Suitable species include:

  • Willow
  • Hazelnut
  • Oak
  • Ash
  • Fruit trees
  • Fir
  • Spruce
  • Pine

For underweight rabbits, avoid offering oats, as they often trigger yeast growth. Instead, increase the variety of plants and herbs to provide a diverse and balanced diet during recovery.

Meadow feeders allow rabbits to select fresh forage while keeping it free from urine and fecal contamination. Unwanted plants fall into the litter tray below.

Hygiene and Disinfection for Coccidiosis in Rabbits

During treatment, strict hygiene is essential to reduce the risk of reinfection, especially in litter boxes and feeding areas where rabbits can repeatedly come into contact with coccidial oocysts.

Daily Hygiene

  • Offer hay and fresh greens in a hay rack or otherwise raised from the ground to reduce contamination with feces.
  • Clean water and food bowls thoroughly every day using hot water above 60°C or a dishwasher on a hot cycle.
  • Remove feces at least once daily to reduce the chance that rabbits ingest sporulated oocysts, which can develop within one to four days.
  • Rinse litter boxes with boiling water to ensure effective disinfection.
    During treatment, litter boxes and feeding areas should be cleaned thoroughly to help prevent reinfection.

    Cleaning the Rabbit Enclosure During Coccidiosis Treatment

    During treatment for coccidiosis, the enclosure should be kept as simple and easy to clean as possible. Litter areas and toilet corners should be cleaned daily to reduce the risk of reinfection.

    • Thoroughly clean all areas contaminated with feces mechanically or treat them with heat above 60°C, for example with boiling water.
    • Clean the rest of the enclosure thoroughly once or twice during the treatment period.
    • In indoor enclosures, wipe the floor thoroughly or use a steam cleaner or hot water above 60°C.
    • In outdoor enclosures, surfaces can be cleaned using a hose, boiling water, a high-pressure cleaner, or a steam cleaner above 60°C.

    Steam cleaners can also create a warm and humid environment that may favor the development of coccidia if not all oocysts are destroyed, as the remaining oocysts can benefit from these conditions.

    Cleaning Blankets, Carpets, and Other Fabric Items

    Blankets, carpets, and other washable fabric items should be machine washed at a high temperature of at least 60°C. During medication, it is best to remove these items from the enclosure.

    Cleaning Soil and Grass Enclosures

    If the rabbit enclosure has a soil floor, remove the upper layer of soil and consider laying paving slabs to help prevent future outbreaks of coccidiosis. As a temporary measure, the soil can also be flooded with boiling water.

    Careful use of quicklime is another option, but rabbits must not have access to the treated area during or immediately after treatment.

    Outdoor grass enclosures should be moved to a different area after treatment, and the previously used area should not be grazed for some time. The area can also be treated with quicklime or a weed burner.

    In general, grass enclosures should not be overgrazed. Keeping the stocking density low and using pasture rotation can help reduce environmental contamination and the risk of repeated coccidia infections.

    Disinfection for Coccidiosis in Rabbits

    Excessive hygiene measures, such as disinfection, restricting free-range access, or boiling and cooking equipment, are unnecessary. These measures cause stress for both rabbits and their caretakers and can weaken the immune system.

    Common disinfectants are ineffective against coccidia.

    Suitable disinfectants include cresols, such as those found in Neopredisan® disinfectants, when diluted to 3–4% and left to act for at least two hours. Capha DesClean® is no longer effective against coccidia.

    These disinfectants are highly toxic to rabbits, irritate their mucous membranes, and should only be used on wipeable surfaces such as PVC or tiles.

    Surfaces that absorb disinfectants, such as wood, carpets, and fabrics, should not be used by rabbits afterward because they remain toxic.

    Wipeable surfaces must be thoroughly cleaned after disinfection to remove any residue. Rabbits must be removed from the area during treatment, and the enclosure should be thoroughly ventilated afterward.

    These disinfectants are also not recommended for indoor use and may be dangerous for people with allergies or asthma.

    For this reason, disinfection using a steam cleaner above 60°C, a flame device, or boiling water is recommended. Surfaces should be exposed to heat for a little longer, and the warm, humid air should be ventilated quickly afterward.

    Boiling water is the simplest, most affordable, and most effective disinfectant.

    Frequently Asked Questions About Coccidiosis in Rabbits

    What is coccidiosis in rabbits? Coccidiosis is a parasitic disease caused by single-celled parasites of the genus Eimeria. These parasites can affect the intestinal tract or, in the case of Eimeria stiedai, the liver and bile ducts.

    What are the symptoms of coccidiosis in rabbits? Possible signs include diarrhea, bloating, digestive disturbances, reduced appetite, weight loss, poor growth, a dull coat, and a poor general condition. Severe cases, particularly in young rabbits, can be fatal.

    Can adult rabbits get coccidiosis? Yes. Adult rabbits can develop clinical coccidiosis, particularly when they are weakened, stressed, chronically ill, or exposed to a high parasite burden.

    How is coccidiosis diagnosed in rabbits? Coccidia are usually detected by examining a fecal sample using the flotation method. Because oocysts are not shed continuously, feces should ideally be collected over several days.

    Can a rabbit have coccidia without symptoms? Yes. Rabbits may carry coccidia without showing visible signs of disease, especially when they have developed partial immunity or are infected with less pathogenic Eimeria species.

    How is coccidiosis treated in rabbits? Treatment usually involves an appropriate anticoccidial medication prescribed by a veterinarian. Commonly used active ingredients include toltrazuril and diclazuril. Hygiene and measures to reduce reinfection are also important during treatment.

    Is coccidiosis contagious between rabbits? Yes. Rabbits become infected by ingesting infectious coccidial oocysts from contaminated food, water, soil, surfaces, or feces. Other rabbits and contaminated environments can therefore act as sources of infection.

    How can coccidiosis in rabbits be prevented? Regular fecal examinations, good hygiene, clean feeding and drinking areas, reducing fecal contamination, appropriate housing, a varied diet, and avoiding overcrowding can help reduce the risk of infection and reinfection.

    Are young rabbits especially at risk from coccidiosis? Yes. Young rabbits are particularly susceptible, especially during growth, weaning, and after moving to a new home. Severe outbreaks can result in multiple deaths within a group.

    What is the difference between intestinal and hepatic coccidiosis? Intestinal coccidiosis affects the intestinal tract and can be caused by several Eimeria species. Hepatic coccidiosis is caused by Eimeria stiedai and primarily affects the liver and bile ducts.

    About This Article

    Original content by Viola Schillinger, veterinarian
    Veterinarian specializing in rabbit health, nutrition and species-appropriate husbandry, and founder of Kaninchenwiese.de, a long-established German rabbit care and health resource reaching around 500,000 visitors per month.

    English translation and adaptation by Erika Kühne Escobar

    Medically reviewed by Viola Schillinger, veterinarian
    Last medically reviewed: August 2026

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    Who Is Behind How to rabbit?

    Veterinarian Viola Schillinger
    Who Is Behind How to Rabbit? Viola Schillinger is a veterinarian who has kept rabbits since childhood and has dedicated much of her professional life to improving their health, welfare, and living conditions. Decades of rabbit keeping, intensive observation, and professional study have given her extensive experience in rabbit health, nutrition, behavior, and species-appropriate husbandry. She shares her knowledge through television appearances, webinars, podcasts, radio programs, articles, and books. In 2008, Viola founded Kaninchenwiese.de, which has grown into a leading German-language resource for rabbit care and health, reaching around 500,000 visitors per month. How to Rabbit brings this knowledge to an international English-speaking audience. The English content is translated and adapted by Erika Kühne Escobar and medically reviewed by Viola Schillinger.

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