How I helped my senior rabbit heal from respiratory issues
- Apr 6
- 2 min read
When Titi turned 12 years old, he started to develop secretions from his left eye and nostril.
The veterinarian prescribed antibiotic which diminish the secretions at first, but several months later he was still fighting the "snuffles".
Titi looked much more tired and his usual fierce appetite was diminished.
On top of that, Titi was born with musculoskeletal issues that developped into arthritis and that is a lot to manage for a senior pet.
Approach
I decided to address the situation from the point of view of his immune system.
If I gave some support to his immune system, perhaps it would give Titi the push to get through the respiratory problems.
Lucky for Titi, we carry natural medicinal preparations that support the immune system so I decided to add this product to his diet mixed with 2 rescue options that I alternate.
Two rescue options:
Both rescue options mixed with water also add hydration which is very important for older rabbits and particularly those with "snuffles".
Supplements
RodiCare has a supplement that specifically supports the treatment of respiratory infections and helps with chronic inflammation of the upper respiratory tract.
I gave the recommended dosage of RodiCare Pulmo for a month and closely monitored Titi.
Massage therapy with Petspemf pad
I discovered the benefits of massage therapy when Titi was feeling the worse. I could tell he had a hard time breathing. I researched many different topics and ways to help the immune system.
Respiratory issue can be very stressful as well as hard on the immune system and I thought that learning massage therapy could only alleviate the situation or at the very least relax the body.
I contacted the creator of this video: Marta from All Paws Massage.
I took several courses via Zoom. She showed me how I could use massage therapy on Titi to support the immune system.
Titi really loved our daily massage therapy on the Petspemf pad set on "accelerated healing" and it also really helped with arthritis.
Nebulizer
The veterinarian suggested that we do twice a day 15 minutes sessions with the nebulizer to help with the secretions.
As your veterinarian fo rmore information on the solution to use for the nebulization.
Diet
As previously mentioned, hydration is very important for respiratory issues, so we upped the variety and quantities of fresh veggies and here is a list of what Titi enjoys:
Cilantro
Romaine
Dandelion leaves
Fennel leaves
Celery leaves
Radicchio
Kale
Bok choi
Jerusalem artichoke
Endive
Parsnip
During this difficult time, Titi would eat 2 bowls of fresh wet veggies.
For a month I focused on this therapeutic plan and little by little I noticed Titi feeling better and his appetite increased.
The veterinarian was impressed to see Titi at his monthly visit. The left eye looked much better and his nostril was dry.
Titi is a very resilient pet and I feel fortunate that thanks to him I discovered all these wonderful ways we can all help our rabbits.
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