Bunny help

[Carolde]

My 11 yr old Netherlands dwarf has molar spurs and obviously bc of his age he can't go under anaesthetic to get rid of them, he's beginning to lose his appetite now so I'm going to take him to the vet but does anyone know any alternatives to getting rid of molar spurs?
Just for piece of mind as I dont want to have to worry about coming home with an empty carrier.
Just seems a stupid reason to put him down so I really want to find a way to fix this

 

[InspectorMorse]

My 11 yr old Netherlands dwarf has molar spurs and obviously bc of his age he can't go under anaesthetic to get rid of them, he's beginning to lose his appetite now so I'm going to take him to the vet but does anyone know any alternatives to getting rid of molar spurs?
Just for piece of mind as I dont want to have to worry about coming home with an empty carrier.
Just seems a stupid reason to put him down so I really want to find a way to fix this

I have had 11+ year old Bunnies go under GA with no problems. Obviously as with all living beings old age does increase the risks, but under the care of an experienced Rabbit Savvy Vet the additional risks will be taken into account. For example a different GA protocol will be used, pre surgical blood testing would provide information of major organ function. Extra precaution re hypothermia will be implemented. Fluid therapy will be given.

Most molar spurs will not go away without treatment. They can eventually cause very painful cuts and ulcers on the cheeks and tongue. The Rabbit will eat less/ stop eating and this will lead to gut stasis. Personally I would rather risk getting the essential treatment done by a Rabbit savvy Vet than do nothing and for the Rabbit to start to suffer more and more discomfort.

If the worst were to happen and Bunny did not come through the GA at least he would not suffer, he would be asleep and know nothing about it. Of course it would be awful for you, I do understand that.

The oldest Rabbit I have had go under GA was 13. She actually had quite major surgery to remove a bladder stone. So not a minor procedure and a longer GA. She made a full recovery and lived to be almost 15.

Best wishes for whatever you decide to do

 

[Shimmer]

Totally agree with Jane's post.

I've had elderly rabbits undergo regular GAs for dentals. Make sure they have been well fed before they go in (do top up syringe feeds with a powdered recovery food to keep intake & weight up as soon as appetite wanes), and ask for fluid therapy. I've always been prepared to lose them under GA while having essential work done rather than go straight for PTS without trying. It's an awful wait on the day, but a much better chance for the rabbit.

 

[bunny momma]

I also had ga done on a few 10 plus year old bunnies-more invasive than a dental- with success.
As others say, it is preferable to doing pts without attempting to correct the issue.

Sending tons of positive vibes.

 

[InspectorMorse]

How is your Bunny doing ? Have you managed to speak with your Vet yet ?