Rabbit Respiratory

Respiratory illness is one of the most common and dangerous health issues in rabbits. Because their airways are sensitive and narrow, even a mild respiratory problem can quickly become life-threatening without early veterinary care.

Rabbits are prone to respiratory infections due to their delicate airways.
Poor cage hygiene, dusty bedding, or drafts can trigger respiratory distress.
Respiratory problems may look like a mild cold but worsen rapidly.
Bacteria, viruses, or fungal infections are the main culprits.

Why Does My Rabbit Get Respiratory Problems??

Rabbits develop respiratory illness when bacteria such as Pasteurella multocida or Bordetella bronchiseptica invade the lungs and nasal passages. Dusty bedding, poor ventilation, and dirty cages create environments where these bacteria thrive. Stress, overcrowding, or nutritional deficiencies weaken the immune system, making rabbits more vulnerable. Once infection sets in, it spreads quickly to other rabbits in close contact. Even temperature changes or drafts can stress their respiratory system, leading to illness.

Types of Rabbit Respiratory Problems

Upper Respiratory Infection (Snuffles)

Caused mainly by Pasteurella, leading to sneezing, nasal discharge, watery eyes, and noisy breathing. Can worsen into pneumonia if untreated.

Lower Respiratory Infection / Pneumonia

A severe infection reaching the lungs. Rabbits may have labored breathing, lethargy, and loss of appetite. Pneumonia is life-threatening and requires urgent care.

Chronic Respiratory Disease

Repeated infections or scarring in the lungs can leave rabbits with long-term congestion, noisy breathing, and ongoing susceptibility to illness.

Allergic or Environmental Respiratory Problems

Not always caused by bacteria—dusty hay, moldy bedding, perfumes, smoke, or poor ventilation can trigger coughing, sneezing, and watery eyes.

Symptoms of Rabbit Respiratory Problems

Sneezing and Coughing

Frequent sneezing or soft coughing are early signs of irritation or infection in the airways.

Nasal Discharge

Clear discharge may indicate irritation, while yellow or green mucus strongly suggests bacterial infection.

Watery or Crusty Eyes

Eye infections often accompany respiratory illness, leaving the eyes red, swollen, or sticky.

Labored Breathing

Rabbits may breathe rapidly, wheeze, or make clicking sounds, showing the lungs are struggling.

Open-Mouth Breathing –

A critical sign, since rabbits normally breathe only through their nose. Open-mouth breathing signals severe distress.

Puffed-Up Coat

Rabbits with respiratory illness often look unkempt as they try to conserve body heat.

Prevention & Pet Care

Prevention of Health Risks

Keep the rabbit’s living space clean, well-ventilated, and free from dust, smoke, and drafts. A diet rich in vitamin C and fiber supports a strong immune system.

Post-Treatment Monitoring

Watch for sneezing, nasal discharge, or labored breathing. If your rabbit refuses food, breathes with its mouth open, or becomes lethargic, seek urgent care.

Dietary Support

Encourage hay and fresh greens to keep the digestive system active. Syringe feeding or vitamin supplements may be needed if appetite is low.

Limit Stress & Activity

Separate sick rabbits from healthy ones to prevent spread. Keep the environment quiet and stress-free during recovery.

Long-Term Care

Schedule follow-up visits, as respiratory issues can recur. Avoid dusty bedding and maintain proper hygiene to lower reinfection risk.