Retrospective study identifying risk factors for dacryocystitis in pet rabbits

Background Dacryocystitis has been suggested to be a relatively common condition in pet rabbits and is often associated with concurrent disease. The aim of this study was to investigate potential risk factors associated with dacryocystitis in a pet rabbit population. Methods A retrospective review of medical records from all rabbit cases evaluated at a single first opinion/referral UK exotics clinic between 2015 and 2018 was performed. Results Dacryocystitis was identified in 55 of 821 rabbits (6.70%) examined over the study period. Of those rabbits with dacryocystitis, dental disease was found in 24 rabbits (45%), respiratory disease in 20 rabbits (38%), aural disease in seven rabbits (13%) and concurrent ocular disorders in 15 rabbits (23%). Breed status was found to be a significant risk factor, with Lionhead/Lionhead cross and Dwarf Lop/Dwarf Lop cross rabbits being more likely to have dacryocystitis. Conclusion These results suggest that a breed predisposition for dacryocystitis may exist, particularly for the popular Lionhead and Dwarf Lop rabbits, and veterinarians should advise clients on this accordingly.