Help for Gara the rabbit

On December 28, a rabbit owner named Rowena from Cavite reached us via our rabbit advocacy page, Rabbit Awareness Philippines.

She is asking for help because her rabbit has a lump on its cheek with the problem started with its eyes. We immediately sent her a list of vets we can recommend, however, no exotic vets are near her.

She already brought Gara to a nearby vet but they diagnosed it only as an eye problem and that she only needs tear duct flushing which is not the case, based on our knowledge of caring for rabbits over the years.

We in Rabbit Awareness Philippines suspect that this is a dental problem, specifically overgrown molar, a very common problem with rabbits. Their teeth do not stop growing which is why hay and lots of fiber should be given to wear it down and prevent molar spurs/overgrown molar. However, for some rabbits there is still a need to do molar trimming.

Overgrown teeth in rabbits commonly misdiagnosed as an ocular issue because it manifests as excessive tears due to pinching of nasolacrimal duct and lacrimal sact. Such is the case also for Gara. The vet misdiagnosed it only as an eye problem leading to ineffective treatment and undetected root problem. The pus-filled lump called abscess is most-likey due to the said dental problem as well.

Rabbit Awareness Philippines encourages responsible pet ownership and discourages relying solely on help from other people, but we do acknowledge that there are times people will not be in their best circumstance and has some struggles at one point in their lives. Kindhearted people donated, provided that the help will not be abused and that the owner will prepare for Gara's future needs especially medical care. However, we are hoping some amount may be reimbursed as others just spent money intended for some expenses just so Gara will receive urgent medical attention.

Gara was brought to VIP Alabang on January 2. A basic pus draining was made and the vet prescribled Enrofloxacin for the infection and Meloxicam for pain. She was also given Oxbow Critical Care. The bill was 1300 pesos for this.

To address the root problem, Gara must be taken to VIP fort on January 4 to address the root problem. Most likely, molar trimming (3500) will be done. Thorough pus removal under sedation is also recommended (3000, 1500 with 50%off on 2nd procedure). Xray will cost 750 and 500 for exotic animal consultation.

Abscess especially in that area may be very hard to treat at times and might recurr so we must be prepared to bring Gara for follow ups the following weeks.

Any amount, big or small, is greatly appreciated.

Any amount in excess will either be given to the owner or be added to Rabbit Awareness Philippines' funds.