Tetanus
Symptoms: How Does Tetanus Manifest?
Tetanus is a very rare disease in rabbits caused by the bacterium Clostridium tetani. It typically enters the body through minor wounds.
Classic symptoms include severe muscle spasms in the limbs (legs) and back, lockjaw (inability to open the mouth), raised lips (giving the appearance of a „grin“), and wide-open eyes. The rabbits remain fully conscious during these episodes. The cause is spasms of the striated muscles.
Differential Diagnosis: E. Cuniculi
Treatment
Treatment Attempt:
The entry wound should never be sutured (since Clostridia are anaerobic bacteria, stitching the wound creates an opportunity for bacterial growth).
Antiserum/Antitoxin: 1,000 IU/kg intravenously, possibly subcutaneously first, to neutralize freely circulating toxins.
Search for the wound where the pathogen entered: this may include the teeth, wounds, surgical wounds, paws, etc., and it should be excised if necessary.
Antibiotics: Metronidazole
Antispasmodic Medications: Muscle relaxants: Methocarbamol, Diazepam, Magnesium infusion (only if under intensive care).
Sedatives: If necessary, such as Medetomidine, Butorphanol, Diazepam, etc.
Feeding (via tube) may be necessary if the rabbit has lockjaw.
A low-stimulation, dark, and quiet environment can be supportive. The rabbit should be kept in the dark, and its eyes covered when exposed to light. Cotton in the ears helps to dampen loud noises.
If needed, infusions and assistance with urination may help.
Osteopathy and physiotherapy can be helpful.
Rabbits do not die from the pathogen itself but from its consequences, such as pneumonia or fever. Therefore, they need intensive medical care.
Make sure to maintain effective vaccination protection for yourself and anyone who has been in contact with the rabbit.
Prevention
There is currently no vaccine against tetanus available for rabbits.
Tetanus from a Rabbit Bite?
This is very unlikely but not impossible. Consult with your general practitioner about receiving a protective tetanus vaccination. If you have not been vaccinated but have been bitten, seek immediate medical attention, even if it’s the weekend, as an emergency vaccination is possible, and the wound may need medical treatment.
Sources include:
Persönl. Mitteilung Tierärztin Josephine Dietzel
