my rabbit has a tooth abscess how much does treatment cost

What should I do if my rabbit has a dental abscess?

The culture results will guide the selection of the best choice of antibiotics. Rabbits are also placed on anti-inflammatory and pain medications post-surgery. The healing time for these abscess surgeries typically range from 3-6 weeks. Owners generally continue treating their pets at home by giving syringe feedings, oral medications and ...

How much do abscess tooth treatments cost?

I have to drive about an hour each way for my vet, but he is half the cost of any vets in the city which makes a big difference on $300-$600 surgeries. If I had known when it started how much time and expense it would take, (especially since he really doesn't have a better prognosis now than he did at the beginning) I'm not sure I would have ...

Do rabbit abscesses go away on their own?

 · The most common cause of tooth root abscesses in rabbits is tooth elongation. This is a chronic and common condition because rabbit teeth tend to grow constantly -- at the rate of nearly one-half an inch every month. The cheek teeth can then become spiked and erode, or gradually wear into the soft tissue near the teeth, allowing abscess-causing ...

How do you treat an abscessed tooth in rabbits?

Most rabbit abscess cases will require the use of oral or injectable antibiotics. If the entire abscess is completely removed, then the antibiotics might not be necessary or may be used for only a short time. If the abscess was only lanced and drained, then antibiotic therapy might continue for weeks to months.

Can a rabbit live with an abscess?

Unfortunately, the abscess will often recur if the capsule is left. It is also hard to keep the area clean as rabbits need access to grass or hay. However, it can allow an affected rabbit to have a comfortable life with adequate pain relief as necessary. Antibiotics are usually required in these cases.

Why do rabbits get tooth abscess?

Abscesses of the oral cavity in rabbits can be particularly challenging. Abscesses can develop as a result of bacteria via gum trauma, punctures or lacerations. These injuries may be a result from feed or dental malocclusion. Dental abscesses can be the result of endodontic disease.

What does a rabbit abscess feel like?

Rabbits affected by abscesses are usually subdued and not eating well. Some may present with a fever and have more systemic signs such as gastrointestinal stasis (decreased bowel movements). Some owners realize there is a problem when there is a strong odor coming from the rabbit's mouth or facial area.

How do I know if my rabbit is dying?

How to tell if a rabbit is dyingThey stop eating.They stop drinking.They stop passing feces.They feel cold.They are not moving as much.Their breathing is different.They are less responsive.They are unable to stand.More items...•

Do abscesses always burst?

Most often, an abscess becomes a painful, compressible mass that is red, warm to touch, and tender. As some abscesses progress, they may "point" and come to a head so you can see the material inside and then spontaneously open (rupture). Most will continue to get worse without care.

Are rabbit abscesses painful?

Tooth root abscesses in rabbits, formally known as apical abscesses, are defined as pus-filled capsules or pockets within the animal's tooth or mouth. These abscesses are painful for the animal and tend to grow within inflamed areas of the gums, where infection is more likely to spread.

How do you drain an abscess on a rabbit?

Calcium hydroxide has been used for many years treating facial abscesses in rabbits, with some success. The solution is syringed into the cleaned out abscess cavity and removed after a week or so. The main problem with calcium hydroxide is its effects on soft tissue.

What antibiotics Can rabbits have?

AntibioticInjectable Use?Risk of Antibiotic-Associated DiarrheaAmoxicillinNoHigh when given orallyAmpicillinNoHigh when given orallyAzithromycinNo injectible form availableLowCephalosporins (Ceftazidime, Cefazolin, Ceftiofur, Cefriaxone, Cephalexin, Cephaloridine, Cephalothin)YesHigh when given orally24 more rows

How long does a bunny live?

European rabbit: 9 yearsRabbit / LifespanRabbits, just like other domesticated animals, have an average lifespan which can help an owner keep their bunny in optimum health in every stage of life. Unlike their wild relatives, who live for an average of one to two years, domesticated rabbits can live between eight to 12 years.

Why is my rabbit's face swollen?

When molars in the mouth of a rabbit are compromised by bacteria infecting the area where the tooth or teeth attach to the bone, an abscess or pus pocket can develop. Left unchecked, these abscesses bulge out the side of the face with increasing volumes of pus.

How do you treat a sick rabbit at home?

While you seek treatment, try to keep your rabbit hydrated and warm. A syringe with water or soft foods (applesauce or baby food) can assist. Depending on the condition, your vet may prescribe prescription medication to help your rabbit's condition.

What causes tooth abscesses?

Other causes and factors contributing to tooth root abscesses include: 1 Infection with pyogenic bacteria (e.g., Streptococcus spp., Fusobacterium nucleatum, Prevotella spp. and Peptostreptococcus micros) 2 Trauma to the teeth or roots, including clipping of the teeth or cutting the pulp when trimming teeth, which can expose them to bacteria 3 Acquired teeth elongation, which can occur from an exclusive pellet diet 4 Suppression of the immune system, which can occur from the overuse of topical or oral steroids

What is the best diet for rabbits?

A well-balanced diet is a vital part of management, as it helps prevent tooth decay. This means feeding the rabbit low-carbohydrate and low-fat foods , and enough water to keep it hydrated.

What is the diagnosis of tooth decay?

Diagnosis involves ruling out other conditions contributing to tooth decay. A veterinarian will look for signs of dental disease and swelling in the mouth, and may take a culture to identify a possible infection.

What to do if rabbit has dental abscess?

As dental abscesses are the most common type in rabbits, the veterinarian will need to perform an oral examination to initially suggest a diagnosis. However, the problem is not always visible to the human eye, so they will likely also need to carry out an X-ray to determine the extent of infection. While the dental or oral abscess is usually due to an issue with the rabbit's teeth, it is also possible a foreign body is causing the issue. Tumors or malocclusion will also need to be ruled out.

How to tell if rabbit has an abscess?

While the inflammation presented as a lump is the most obvious symptom of an abscess, there are different observations depending on the abscess location. For example, if the abscess is present on the face or inside the mouth of the rabbit, concurrent symptoms may include: 1 Loss of appetite 2 Anorexia 3 Constipation 4 Diarrhea 5 Hair loss

Can an abscess be a lump?

While the inflammation presented as a lump is the most obvious symptom of an abscess, there are different observations depending on the abscess location. For example, if the abscess is present on the face or inside the mouth of the rabbit, concurrent symptoms may include:

What causes an abscess in a rabbit?

As we state above, the causes of an abscess in a rabbit are varied. The lumps under their skin may indeed be abscesses, but it is also possible they could be a neoplasm. Neoplasms are lumps which can either be benign or malign, cancerous tumours falling into the latter category. When we take the rabbit the veterinarian, they will be able to run several diagnostic tests to determine the cause. This will likely involve using a hypodermic needle to insert into the abscess and remove some of the purulent fluid.

Why does my rabbit have hair loss?

Hair loss. The reason for these concurrent symptoms is because the abscess makes it difficult to eat. Abscesses on the belly can also put pressure on the gastrointestinal system and create related problems. Pain is also an issue, especially when the rabbit is touched.

Why do rabbits chew wood?

To prevent dangerous growth, the rabbit will chew on pieces of wood or other surfaces to grind them down. Even regular chewing of hay helps them to keep the teeth in order. However, if the rabbit does not have the right tools at hand or is not chewing for another reason, abnormal growth can occur.

Why do rabbits have white spots on their eyes?

Corneal abscesses in rabbits. It is common we may see our rabbit has something white in their eye, in addition to the eye being swollen. In these cases, it is likely there is an abscess in the eye. Of course, there are other possible causes for such white spots on the rabbit's eye, including cataracts.

How to treat abscesses in rabbits?

The important points about abscesses in rabbits are: 1 Feed your rabbit a healthy diet, provide ample exercise and a clean, safe environment to minimize the formation of abscesses. (See Rabbit Care for more information on general rabbit care.) 2 Have all lumps investigated as soon as possible by your veterinarian. 3 It is important to determine the cause of an abscess, not to just treat the abscess itself. 4 There are several different ways of treating abscesses in rabbits based on location, cause, size, overall health of the bunny and so on. Consult with a rabbit knowledgeable veterinarian who will be familiar with the various options. 5 If the cause of an abscess cannot be treated, there is a moderate to high probability it will return after treatment. 6 Complete surgical removal of the abscess along with correction of the cause gives the best chance for a complete cure. 7 Whatever the treatment choice, it is imperative to follow through with your veterinarian’s requested recheck appointments and diagnostic testing to improve the chances for abscess resolution.

Can an abscess be removed surgically?

Complete surgical removal of the abscess along with correction of the cause gives the best chance for a complete cure. Whatever the treatment choice, it is imperative to follow through with your veterinarian’s requested recheck appointments and diagnostic testing to improve the chances for abscess resolution.

Can an abscess be flushed?

In these cases the abscess can be opened, cleaned out thoroughly and flushed with an antiseptic solution. This procedure is usually performed under anesthesia, unless the abscess is very small. The wall of the abscess should be cultured for bacteria and an appropriate antibiotic can be selected.

What are the dental problems in rabbits?

This article addresses the most common issues, including signs of dental disorders; pain management (analgesia); diagnosis, treatment, and home care of dental problems, including malocclusion of incisors and of molars; euthanasia; and prevention of dental disorders.

Can rabbits have molars removed?

Unless a molar is loose or there is an infection, molar extraction is not recommended due to the arrangement and function of a rabbit’s teeth. If surgery is not necessary, Dr. Lennox advises:

What are rabbit's teeth?

Rabbits’ teeth are part of a complex digestive system that promotes efficient assimilation of plant materials that are indigestible to many other species. The front teeth include four sharp, chisel-like incisors: two on the top and two on the bottom. Behind the upper front teeth are two smaller peg incisors.

Why is rabbit dentistry so complex?

Rabbit dentistry is complex, primarily because the teeth grow continuously. In addition, the mouth cavity is small, with cheek folds. Dental disorders can generally be successfully treated when the problem is identified in the early stage. Dr.

What happens when a rabbit's tooth is overgrown?

Incisors may fracture during a fall or when a rabbit sustains some other head injury. When teeth are overgrown, they are more prone to fracture.

How many premolars are there in rabbits?

There are twenty-two premolars and molars, often called cheek teeth when referred to as a group. Their deep grooves create ridges that are perfect for breaking down fibrous plant materials. In a healthy rabbit, the cheek teeth come into contact only during the chewing process.

Do little prey companions mask their dental health?

Though dental problems are common, our little prey companions often mask the condition so as not to appear vulnerable. Thus, it’s incumbent upon caregivers to note changes to behavior and appearance, including:

How to treat dental disease in rabbits?

The treatment indicated for dental disease in rabbits depends on the severity of the disease. A diet high in long fiber is an essential part of managing rabbit dental disease. If possible, all pellets should be eliminated from the diet and the rabbit should be maintained on grass hay. A small amount of pellets can be given as treats. Unless the rabbit chews enough to wear the crowns, dental disease will recur.

Do rabbits have dental problems?

Rabbits with dental disease are considered to be in pain and do not swallow as much as they normally would. They often have wet fur around the muzzle and ventral cervical fur. Ocular discharge is a presenting complaint that should make the clinician think of dental disease.

How many teeth do rabbits have?

The cheek teeth consist of the molars and premolars. Rabbits have 3 upper premolars and 3 upper molars and 2 lower premolars and 3 lower molars. There is a lot of action during chewing between the upper and lower cheek teeth grinding fibrous grasses.

Can rabbits have malocclusion?

Many rabbits with primary cheek teeth disease present for incisor malocclusion which is actually secondary to abnormal che ek teeth. Do not just trim the incisors without investigating the cheek teeth. If the cheek teeth crowns overgrow, the mouth no longer closes properly which affects the occlusion of the incisors.

How long does it take for antibiotics to release?

The elution of the antibiotic is bimodal with a rapid release in the first few days followed by a slow, long term release of antibiotic over weeks to months. The beads become encapsulated with fibrous tissue within a few weeks and then only tissues within about 3 mm receive the high concentration of antibiotic.

How many incisors do rabbits have?

Rabbits have 6 inci sors (4 upper and 2 lower). The 2 first incisors are large and oppose the lower incisors. The 2 second upper incisors are called 'peg teeth' and are located just caudal to the first incisors. The incisors are relatively long compared with the cheek teeth. The incisors have a beveled cutting edge with both the upper and lower incisors being sharp on the rostral aspect. When the mouth is closed, the lower incisors rest on the peg teeth caudal to the upper incisors. Rabbits use the sharp edges of the incisors to cut off grasses. The roots of the incisors are dramatically curved and very long. They are deep to the roots of the cheek teeth and extend very caudally in the mandible and maxilla.

What is ocular discharge?

Ocular discharge is a presenting complaint that should make the clinician think of dental disease. The upper cheek teeth roots are close to the nasolacrimal duct. If ankylosis occurs, the roots grow away from the mouth and compresses or invades the nasolacrimal duct. Tears no longer drain properly and epiphora results.

How much does it cost to get an abscess tooth extracted?

Abscess tooth treatment costs vary widely based on the treatment your dentist recommends, which tooth is affected, and the local economy in your area. Here are the average costs you can expect for common treatments: 1 Root canal on a front tooth: $960 - $1350 2 Root canal on a molar: $500 - $1600 3 Tooth extraction: $75 to $300 4 Dental crowns: $500 - $2,500 5 Dental implant: $1,500 - $2,000

What is the procedure to remove an abscess tooth?

Root Canal . Usually, your dentist will need to perform a root canal procedure to remove the infected tissue inside your abscess tooth. Root canals are not nearly as painful as you may have heard. Your tooth and gums will be numbed prior to the procedure.

What is an abscess in dental?

Cosmetic Dental Care. A dental abscess, also known as an abscessed tooth, occurs when a pocket of pus forms in or around an infected tooth root. Abscessed teeth are very painful, and they do not resolve on their own without treatment from a dentist.

Can you get an abscess without a dentist?

Abscessed teeth are very painful, and they do not resolve on their own without treatment from a dentist. Gum disease, untreated cavities, and cracks in the teeth all increase your risk of a dental abscess, but they can truly happen to anyone.

How do you know if you have an abscess in your tooth?

Abscess Tooth Symptoms. The most obvious symptom of a dental abscess is severe tooth pain. Often, this pain has a sharp, piercing quality, though some patients experience more of a dull, persistent ache. The pain may be localized in a single tooth, or it may feel like an entire side of your jaw is hurting.

What happens if you have an abscess in your jaw?

Abscesses that are left untreated can spread infection to a neighboring tooth, into your jaw bone , or even into your brain or blood tissue, which may have serious or deadly consequences.

What causes tooth abscesses?

Dental abscesses are caused by the same species of bacteria that cause gum disease and tooth decay. When these bacteria work their way into the inner tissues of the tooth root, known as the tooth pulp, the body starts sending white blood cells to the area to fend off the bacteria. The white blood cells start to accumulate, forming a pocket of pus. ...

Signs and Symptoms

• The signs and symptoms will depend on the affected areas. For instance, those on the superficially on the skin may not show any signs while those that are deep, or on teeth or oral cavity may be accompanied by several symptoms. Some of the common symptoms include the …

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Causes

Diagnosis

Treatment of Abscesses in Rabbits

Prevention