EXOTICS
Fig 1: Graph representing seizure onset and frequency in affected
rabbits
lasting longer than 48 hours, levetiracetam
therapy can be initiated (20 mg/kg orally
t.i.d., potentially for a few weeks).11
Maintenance fluids (100 to 120 ml/kg/day)
should be administered to maintain the patient’s hydration.11
Nutritional support, such as Critical Care
(Oxbow Animal Health; 10 to 15 ml/kg orally
b.i.d. to t.i.d.), may be indicated in anorectic rabbits.11 Often, inappetant rabbits may
consume this voluntarily, but force feeding
with a syringe may be indicated when continued feed refusal is present. If the rabbit
is hypothermic, provide an external heat
source, such as a heating pad or warming
blanket.
Monitoring
Monitor the patient’s food and water intake, as anorexia and adipsia are common. Also monitor the patient for changes in body temperature, tremors and
seizure activity.
Treatment
Bathing the rabbit with liquid dishwashing detergent
within 48 hours of the exposure will easily remove
the fipronil.9 After 48 hours, bathing is probably minimally effective. Special care should be taken to keep
the rabbit warm during and after bathing until its fur
is fully dry.
Benzodiazepines, such as diazepam (1 to 3 mg/kg intramuscularly or intravenously) or midazolam (1 to 2
mg/kg intramuscularly or intravenously), can be given
to treat seizure-like activity.10 For patients with seizures
Conclusion
Fipronil has a narrow margin of safety in rabbits. Its
administration is contraindicated because of the potential for life-threatening signs and the availability of
safer alternative spot-on products for external parasite
control.
Seizures, anorexia, adipsia and lethargy are common
clinical signs in rabbits exposed to topical fipronil
products. The onset of seizures may be greatly delayed in these patients, and at-home monitoring for
the development of seizures for several weeks after
exposure is warranted. Mild seizures may last for several weeks. The prognosis is guarded for all rabbits exhibiting seizures.9
References will be available on www.vet360.vetlink.
co.za
Issue 06 | DECEMBER 2015 | 23