Was wondering what antibiotics where safe for rabbits and at what dosage ?

-- Patty {NY State} (fodfarms@hotmail.com), March 20, 2002

Answers

Patty... here's where we start running into problems. There are only two medications which have been "approved" for use with rabbits, and both are coccidiocides. This, then, requires a knowledgeable veterinarian. Basically, the same antibiotics used for ferrets would be okay for rabbits, too, and including anesthetics.

Meanwhile, we really can't recommend specific medicines and doses on public message boards without breaking the law... simply because we're not licensed veterinarians! Sorry, but this is a pretty big no-no.

-- Pat Lamar (fuzyfarm@3-cities.com), March 20, 2002.

I was just wondering as I have read conflicting statements .I am also in an area that doesn't have alot of vets .I fully understand why you cannot recommend anything .I am just trying to build my knowledge.

-- Patty {NY State} (fodfarms@hotmail.com), March 20, 2002.

I would strongly recommend building your own reference library, then. "The Biology and Medicine of Rabbits and Rodents" (John E. Harkness & Joseph E. Wagner) would probably be what you would need the most in this case. I believe I saw a used copy either at Barnes & Noble or on Amazon.com for $23.00 plus shipping. I was lucky to get mine off of eBay for $11.00 plus shipping. Anyway, the section on drugs (most are extra-label) is quite extensive and more than what one could give in an e-mail of reasonable length.

A Merck's Veterinary Manual would also be a good idea, too. Best to go for the most recent edition... lots of changes and improvements the past few years. I need to get a new one, too.

-- Pat Lamar (fuzyfarm@3-cities.com), March 20, 2002.

Pat you are a book of knowledge .We are so lucky to have you .I have gotten the same book recommendation earlier tonight .Also found a woman in Texas who is great .Thanks again.~ Patty

-- Patty {NY State} (fodfarms@hotmail.com), March 21, 2002.

A woman in Texas? Most likely Linda Welch, heheheh. She's a PRMA member, too. Not a whole lot of knowledgeable women in Texas with the meat breeds! LOL

-- Pat Lamar (fuzyfarm@3-cities.com), March 21, 2002.

I agree with Pat, both books are excellent refrences. I also have rarely used antibiotics with the rabbits. Even now I think it has been 5-6 years since I did. Breed for strong healthy animals, cull those lines that seem weak, slow growers or those that always seem to get sick. Keep your barn area clean and well ventilated this will help eliminate any need for medicines. Denise

-- Denise K. (Rabbtitmom2@webbworks.com), March 21, 2002.