Conjunctivitis/Weepy Eye (Infection)

Cause:
Irritation due to fumes, sprays, dust etc., bacterial infection of the eyelids

Symptoms:
Eyes are watering, running down the cheek. The fur around the eye becomes we and matted.

Treatment:
Clean the eye with warm water and a mild soap (johnsons baby wash) or eyewash and treat with an antibiotic eye ointment/drops.


A bacterial infection of the eyelids produces the water or thick discharge form the eyes. The fur around the eye becomes wet, matted and falls out, exposing the raw skin. The mucous lining of the tear duct becomes inflamed, swells and closes forcing the tears to run down the cheek of the rabbit.

Weepy eyes can also be caused from filthy hutches and accumulated under hutch droppings, urine, feed etc.

All the above conditions cause fumes and vapors from decomposing that can lead to eye troubles.

Rabbits with colds, and respiratory problems will often run their nose and eyes with their paws which can also lead to infection of the eye.

Early cases of weepy eye respond best and can be cleared up by washing the eye and using an antibiotic eye ointment or drops. If the eye becomes reinfected, it is best to cull the animal from the herd.
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