How should a subcutaneous tick in a rabbit be treated? - briefly
Remove the tick with fine‑pointed forceps, grasping close to the skin, then clean the site with an antiseptic and apply a topical antibiotic. Monitor the rabbit for inflammation or systemic signs and seek veterinary care if any abnormalities develop.
How should a subcutaneous tick in a rabbit be treated? - in detail
A subcutaneous tick in a rabbit requires prompt removal to prevent secondary infection and systemic disease. The procedure begins with adequate restraint, preferably using a soft towel or a specialized rabbit holder, to minimise stress and movement.
- Inspect the site for swelling, erythema, or a palpable nodule.
- Disinfect the surrounding fur with a mild antiseptic solution, such as chlorhexidine diluted to 0.05 %.
- Apply a warm compress for 2–3 minutes to soften the overlying tissue.
- Using fine‑point, non‑toothed forceps, grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible.
- Pull steadily in line with the body, avoiding twisting or crushing the organism.
If the tick is deeply embedded and cannot be extracted with forceps, a small incision may be made with a sterile scalpel blade. The incision should be just large enough to expose the tick’s mouthparts, which are then removed with forceps. After extraction, irrigate the wound with sterile saline and apply a topical antiseptic ointment, such as bacitracin.
Systemic therapy is indicated when the bite site shows signs of inflammation, or when the rabbit belongs to a high‑risk group (young, immunocompromised, or pregnant). A short course of a broad‑spectrum antibiotic, for example enrofloxacin 5 mg/kg subcutaneously once daily for 5 days, reduces bacterial contamination. In regions where tick‑borne pathogens are prevalent, prophylactic administration of an antiparasitic agent, such as ivermectin 0.2 mg/kg subcutaneously, may be considered.
Post‑procedure monitoring includes daily examination of the wound for discharge, swelling, or ulceration. Any deterioration warrants veterinary reassessment. Environmental control measures—regular grooming, removal of tall grass, and use of tick‑preventive collars or spot‑on treatments—decrease the likelihood of future infestations.