Little Bit of Crusty Eyes

[Julia3501]

My sweet black rex Juliet has a slight problem. She has slightly crusty eyes. It looks like the kind of eye boogers a human would get in the morning but it's not normal for her. I plan on lightly removing the crust with a damp cloth, but what could this be? She is kept in a huge crate intended for great danes, feed good purnina rabbit chow, allowed clean water at all times and her crate is kept very clean. She didn't catch it from any other rabbits, she is kept alone for now, and our Holland Lop has no sign of sickness. She isn't actimng different just has the eye boogies. Thanks in advance!:rabbithop

 

[funnybunnymummy]

You didn't mention if she gets hay? Eye discharge can be caused by tooth issues. Either overgrown or abcessed. Rabbits need regular access to hay to keep their teeth worn down. Pellets--even the extruded ones--really aren't sufficient for the job.

It could also be the start of a URI. Though I think a damp nose presents itself first (rabbits shouldn't have wet noses). Like with humans, most bacteria that causes URIs are already present in the rabbit, but stress or other illness can cause the immune system to weaken, allowing the bacteria to take over, causing a URI.

If she does start exhibiting other symptoms (runny nose, congestion, etc.), I recommend getting your vet to do a culture (swab) before administering antibiotics.

Hope that helps!

Rue