Rabbits are generally hardy animals, but they are vulnerable to certain diseases, including rabbit syphilis, also called Treponematosis. This condition is caused by the bacterium Treponema cuniculi, which is related to the bacteria that cause syphilis in humans—though it is important to note that rabbit syphilis does not spread to people. In this guide, we’ll explain the causes, symptoms, treatment options, and prevention tips for rabbit syphilis. And if you’re keeping rabbits in hutches or cages, remember that overcrowding and poor housing can stress rabbits and make infections worse—use the Rabbit Cage Size Calculator to ensure your rabbits have enough safe space.
What Is Rabbit Syphilis?
Rabbit syphilis is a bacterial infection that affects the skin and mucous membranes of rabbits. Unlike human syphilis, it is not sexually transmitted in the same way, but it can spread between rabbits through breeding, close contact, or from mother to kits at birth.
Causes of Rabbit Syphilis
- Bacteria: Caused by Treponema cuniculi, a spiral-shaped bacterium.
- Transmission: Passed during mating, from doe to kits, or through direct rabbit-to-rabbit contact.
- Environment: Crowded or stressful conditions may increase the risk of outbreaks.
Symptoms of Rabbit Syphilis
Signs usually appear around the face, nose, mouth, and genitals. Common symptoms include:
- Crusty, scabby lesions on the nose, lips, eyelids, or genitals
- Swelling and redness of affected areas
- Pain or discomfort while eating if mouth lesions are present
- Decreased appetite in severe cases
- Transmission to kits (young rabbits) shortly after birth
Diagnosing Rabbit Syphilis
If you suspect your rabbit has syphilis, a veterinarian can confirm it with a skin scraping, blood test, or examination under a microscope. Because the symptoms can look similar to other rabbit illnesses (like mites or fungal infections), professional diagnosis is important.
Treatment Options
Fortunately, rabbit syphilis can be treated effectively when caught early. Treatment usually includes:
- Antibiotics: Long-acting penicillin injections are the standard treatment, administered by a veterinarian.
- Supportive Care: Keeping affected areas clean, providing soft foods if eating is painful, and reducing stress.
- Separation: Infected rabbits should be separated from healthy ones until cleared by a vet.
Do not attempt to treat rabbit syphilis at home without veterinary guidance.
Prevention of Rabbit Syphilis
- Quarantine New Rabbits: Keep new rabbits separate for at least 30 days before introducing them to others.
- Breeding Precautions: Do not breed infected rabbits until they are fully treated.
- Hygiene: Regularly clean hutches, cages, and water bottles.
- Space: Avoid overcrowding. Use the Cage Size Calculator to ensure proper housing dimensions.
Best Products for Supporting Rabbit Health
Aivituvin XL Rabbit Hutch
Why it’s helpful: Spacious housing reduces stress and lowers the risk of infections spreading.
- Pros: Durable, predator-proof, easy to clean.
- Cons: Requires space and assembly.
Oxbow Western Timothy Hay
Why it’s helpful: Supports digestion and keeps the immune system strong.
- Pros: High fiber, fresh, recommended by vets.
- Cons: Higher cost than bulk hay.
STKYGOOD Metal Hay Feeder
Why it’s helpful: Keeps hay clean and reduces contamination risks in group setups.
- Pros: Chew-proof, prevents waste, hygienic.
- Cons: Pricier than plastic feeders.
Lixit Wide-Mouth Water Bottle
Why it’s helpful: Ensures constant access to clean water, essential for recovery.
- Pros: Large size, durable, leak-resistant.
- Cons: Must be cleaned regularly.
Niteangel Grass Mats
Why it’s helpful: Provides a comfortable, chew-safe flooring option that reduces stress for sick rabbits.
- Pros: Edible, natural, inexpensive.
- Cons: Needs frequent replacement.
Comparison Table
| Product | Main Benefit | Best For | Link |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aivituvin Hutch | Spacious housing | Indoor/outdoor rabbits | See Price |
| Oxbow Timothy Hay | Digestive support | All rabbits | See Price |
| STKYGOOD Hay Feeder | Hygienic feeding | Group setups | See Price |
| Lixit Water Bottle | Fresh hydration | Recovery support | See Price |
| Niteangel Grass Mats | Comfort & enrichment | Sick or stressed rabbits | See Price |
FAQ
Can humans catch rabbit syphilis?
No. Rabbit syphilis is species-specific and cannot spread to humans.
Can rabbit syphilis go away without treatment?
No. Without antibiotics, the condition will persist and may worsen. Veterinary care is required.
Is rabbit syphilis fatal?
Not usually, but if untreated, it can cause pain, poor eating, and spread within colonies, leading to serious health issues.
How long does treatment take?
Most rabbits improve within a few weeks of starting penicillin injections, but full treatment should continue as directed by a vet.
How can I prevent rabbit syphilis in my herd?
Quarantine new rabbits, avoid overcrowding, and provide clean, spacious housing. Use the Cage Size Calculator to ensure healthy living conditions.
Conclusion
Rabbit syphilis, or treponematosis, is a bacterial infection that causes crusty lesions around the face and genitals. While it may look alarming, it’s treatable with veterinary antibiotics. Prevention through good hygiene, proper housing, and careful breeding management is the best defense.
👉 If you’re raising rabbits, don’t overlook housing. Use the Rabbit Cage Size Calculator today to provide enough space and reduce stress, making your rabbits less vulnerable to infections like syphilis.
Final Thought: With proper treatment and care, rabbits with syphilis can make a full recovery and continue to live healthy, happy lives.