Runny Nose

[Candice Lawrence]

10 week old bunny has a runny nose. Discharge is thin and clear, and there are no other symptoms so far. Any advice?

 

[Apollo’s Slave]

I’m thinking it could be snuffles but I’m not all too sure. Runny Nose in Rabbits - Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, Treatment, Recovery, Management, Cost
Is he sneezing or wheezing?

 

[Candice Lawrence]

No sneezing or wheezing.

 

[thevanguard6]

Probably snuffles, yes. Cute name, snuffles.... However, it can cause a lot of issues as a rabbit ages. Not sure what can really be done about it. Mainly a good diet to try to keep it under control. As always, unlimited hay, unlimited water, not too many fresh veggies. Try to emphasize dry foods (and keep your bunny warm and dry too).

If it gets too bad, antibiotics is an option. However, the more antibiotics you use, the weaker your bunny's gut will become.
https://www.wikihow.com/Treat-Snuffles-(Pasteurella)-in-Rabbits
There are some additional ideas here (however, I haven't put these to the test, so use your best judgement): Treating Rabbit Snuffles Without a Vet | Afterthoughts

 

[Mariam+Theo]

I think this is a small case of snuffles and if it is not treated, it can get deadly. I suggest taking the rabbit to the vet. They will give you antibiotics that will knock this out before it gets serious. Here are some links (the second one should be very helpful):
https://rabbitwelfare.co.uk/rabbit-health/rabbit-snuffles/https://afterthoughtsblog.net/2013/11/treating-rabbit-snuffles-without-vet.html

 

[majorv]

How long has the rabbit had the discharge? Do you have any other rabbits?
As a precaution, if he’s had the discharge longer than a few days you should get a vet to do a culture.

 

[Candice Lawrence]

Today was the first day with discharge, very clear after we brushed her. No other bunnies in the home. When I checked a few minutes ago the nose area was dry.

 

[Apollo’s Slave]

Could it have been that she had justness drank water? Or accidentally got something on his nose

 

[Candice Lawrence]

Don’t think it was water, going to the vet whenever he can fit us in next week. Will update when I know more.

 

[JBun]

Thin clear discharge does not mean it's snuffles. Thin clear discharge can be caused from environmental sensitivities(bedding/shavings, hay, cleaning products, etc), dust, heat stress, tear duct/eye issues, dental issues, and bacterial infections. 'Snuffles' or an upper respiratory infection is a possibility but not definite unless you are seeing white or colored discharge, or you have a positive culture. A true URI needs to be diagnosed and treated by an experienced rabbit vet with the correct antibiotic.
http://www.medirabbit.com/EN/Respiratory/Bacterial/URI.htm
If it has cleared up or isn't happening very consistently, I would suspect something in the environment is the cause. Unless you see white discharge, then yes, get your rabbit to the vet.

 

[Candice Lawrence]

Thank you everyone for your concern and advice. Tinkerbell does have an upper respiratory infection. The veterinarian sent her home with antibiotics. She’s eating well and is still inquisitive and playful, just hoping the meds don’t cause tummy problems.

 

[Apollo’s Slave]

I'm glad she's being treated. I hope she gets better soon!