Fax: (407) 628-8412
Office Hours
Day | Morning | Afternoon |
---|---|---|
Monday | 7:00am | 6:00pm |
Tuesday | 7:00am | 6:00pm |
Wednesday | 7:00am | 1:00pm |
Thursday | 7:00am | 6:00pm |
Friday | 7:00am | 6:00pm |
Saturday | 8:00am | 1:00pm |
Sunday | Closed | Closed |
Day | Morning | Afternoon |
---|---|---|
Monday | 7:00am | 6:00pm |
Tuesday | 7:00am | 6:00pm |
Wednesday | 7:00am | 1:00pm |
Thursday | 7:00am | 6:00pm |
Friday | 7:00am | 6:00pm |
Saturday | 8:00am | 1:00pm |
Sunday | Closed | Closed |
Rabbit teeth grow continually throughout their lives. In a normal rabbit mouth, the teeth are perfectly aligned so that they wear against each other as the bunny chews, preventing the teeth from overgrowing. Unfortunately, dental disease is common in pet rabbits and can be caused by either congenital issues, where the teeth do not line up correctly, or by acquired issues, such as eating a low fiber diet that does not provide proper chewing action. It can even be caused by loss of bone density such as could occur with senior rabbits. Whether congenital or acquired, dental disease can vary greatly in severity from minor “points” on molars to tusk-like teeth that overgrow tongues or grow outside of the mouth. Regardless of the reason, dental disease can cause a rabbit to stop eating, become malnourished, lose weight, develop infection or abscesses and result in potential GI slowdowns.
The goal of treatment, which usually involves trimming or filing, is to return the teeth to normal length and shape. Doing so usually allows the bunny to begin eating again almost immediately and also improves and controls secondary inflammation and/or infection.
The decision to proceed with treatment, however, must be made following an accurate diagnosis by the veterinarian and should include a discussion regarding prognosis. For example, if incisor removal is recommended but the bunny’s health status is questionable, your vet may recommend temporary measures prior to removing the teeth. These measures could include incisor burring and syringe feeding of an Herbivore Critical Care formula (Oxbow Pet Products) for a few days before surgery. A preoperative complete blood count, biochemistry panel and urinalysis are also recommended before anesthesia and surgery.
A dental check should be a part of your bunny’s annual checkup. Or, if your bunny’s front teeth are overgrown or you find that he or she is drooling, has runny eyes, runs to his food but then turns away or has gradual or sudden changes in his or her dietary habits (refusing one food but eating another), a trip to the vet is in order
Orlando Diaz-Figueroa, DVM, MS, Dipl. ABVP (Avian Specialty)
Veterinary Services
"Your pet’s health and well-being is our number one concern."
Your Dog, Cat, and Exotics Veterinarian in Maitland, FL
Call us at (407) 628-8000
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Testimonial
We like the knowledge of both Dr.Diaz and Dr.Perez so much- we moved from another clinic we had been with for ten years. I highly recommend them both.
- Robin L. / Maitland, FL
I can say with much certainty that not many will do what you (Dr.Diaz) did for me. Not many are out there who have so much benevolence in their heart to help out others, particularly in the medical profession. My heart is filled with thankfulness towards you. I would also like to thank your staff which is equally as loving and caring. They showed tremedous sensitivity towards me and dealt with me in kindness.
- Vijai T. / Maitland, FL
Dr Perez has been the vet for my 3 dogs for over 5 years and I can't say enough good things about her care and the well being she has for my pups. Nancy is also very knowledgeable and wonderful. She takes the time needed to answer all my questions and gives me the best course of action when they're ill.
- Janis L. / Orlando, FL
Office Hours
Day | Morning | Afternoon |
---|---|---|
Monday | 7:00am | 6:00pm |
Tuesday | 7:00am | 6:00pm |
Wednesday | 7:00am | 1:00pm |
Thursday | 7:00am | 6:00pm |
Friday | 7:00am | 6:00pm |
Saturday | 8:00am | 1:00pm |
Sunday | Closed | Closed |
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