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Health implications of blocked scent glands?

Alison Marie

Alison Marie

Wise Old Thumper
Are there any health implications or other issues rabbits can experience as a result of blocked scent glands?

Also, any tips on cleaning them? :mrgreen: jasper requires some assistance.....
 
Some waxy debris in the scent glands is normal, so there shouldn't be any health implications from that. If the glands become very full that might be due to the fact that the Rabbit is having problems grooming him/herself in general-ie it is a symptom rather than a primary problem. If you feel that Jasper's scent glands get abnormally full then aswell as cleaning them you need to look at why he cant do so for himself.

To clean them it is best to use cotton buds with a bit of KY Jelly on. This works better than plain water and is less likely to cause damage to the extremely delicate skin. If the problem is chronic then you'll need to clean the glands regularly and also be aware that he would be at higher risk of Flystrike in warmer weather.
 
thanks Jane. I've not noticed it before so I will keep an eye on him, he's not been cleaning himself very well recently but he is getting a little on the chubby side so we will restrict his diet and see if losing weight helps. In the meantime we will clean the scent glands and get him booked in for a check up at the vet to make sure it's not a dental problem-he's not had any issues before but it's probably a good idea to check anyway. :D
 
Alison Marie said:
Are there any health implications or other issues rabbits can experience as a result of blocked scent glands?

Also, any tips on cleaning them? :mrgreen: jasper requires some assistance.....
Click to expand...

Debris in the scent glands is quite normal. Lots of rabbits don't, or are unable to clean them very well themselves.

I clean them occasionally with a cotton wool dipped in lukewarm water. The debris comes away easily.
 
The debris was really stuck in there. I have had to leave one as i didnt want to irritate him too much. I am a bot concerned about the general appearance of down there but he was a one testicle bunny and had multiple incisions so thry could find the missing one....so wonder if thats why. Either way i think i will take him to the vet later in the week just for peace of mind.
 
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