Rabbits

Notes

RABBIT (Oryctolagus cuniculus)
Physiologic parameters:
Body temperature = 38-39.6^oC (100.4-103.28^oF)
Heart rate = 130-325/min
Respiratory rate = 32-60/min
Tidal volume = 4-6 ml/kg

• Best indicator for surgical anesthesia is the ear pinch reflex.
• Rabbits are difficult to anesthetize.
• Small chest size relative to body size makes respiratory complications common. Rabbits are predisposed to pulmonary edema with prolonged inhalation anesthesia.
• Avoid barbiturates due to the respiratory depression it causes.
• Rabbits are prone to lumbosacral fractures and dislocations when handled incorrectly.

Preanesthesia

• Glycopyrrolate 0.01-0.02 mg/kg IM or SC  - Preferred over atropine 
• Atropine 0.2 mg/kg IM or SC - Presence of atropine esterase requires repeated doses

Anesthetic Agents and Tranquilizers Used in Rabbits