Wry Neck

Cause:
Bacterial infection, fungus or mite infestation, injury

Symptoms:
The rabbit will experience a loss of balance or equilibrium, the head will be pulled to one side or twisted, and it will roll over and over when it attempts to move.

Treatment:
Fungicide, broad spectrum antibiotic, ear canker remedy


Wry neck can actually be caused in the nest box. If it is seen at an early age, it is most likely and injury caused by the doe trampling on the young. There is no cure for this type of injuy. Older rabbits however, can obtain a neck injury from a startling noise causing them to bolt against the side of the cage.

However most cases are due to damage of the inner ear. This condition can be caused by mite infestation (ear canker) or a bacterial infection of the inner ear. As the infection spreads it affects the blance of the inner ear, disturbing the rabbits equilibrium blance, also causing the neck to twist.

You should check the ears of a rabbit with simptoms of wry neck first. If ear canker is present, treat it with a medication, and chances are the condition will correct itself. If there is no ear canker present, treat the rabbit with an antibiotic to treat a backterial infection. You can also try a fungus medication which should be sprayed in the ear for 3 to 5 days.
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