Denver, my bun bun is sick!

[sasvermont]

Last evening I played with him and petted him and he was fine. Tonight, when I went to feed him (and his buddy Cinnamon) he was making a strange sound and moving his nose back and forth. I picked him up and brought him inside on my bed, to get a good listen and look. He looks ok, although breathing seems to be a little bit of an effort. He is weezing a bit. I called the emergency vet and they suggested it could wait until the morning, and to call my regular vet. I hope he makes it!

Denver is my "meat rabbit" rescued a couple of years ago. He has been healthy and happy until now. He looks good......but sounds as though he has a cold. Do bunnies get colds?

Fingers crossed that he hangs in there tonight and waits for a visit to the vet. I am sure a worry wart.



http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid172/p7aab2db8e860ac88675716a04f344df1/f3cbe110.jpg

[jenluckenbach]

Prayers for Denver.

[Karen]

Poor baby. Miss Hoppy has, at times, seemed to have a cold and recovered. It's pathetic when she and Paul are both stretched out in the living room, sneezing periodically. But when she has a bit of a runny nose, she does NOT want anyone touching with a tissue, thank you very much.

[Blue Dragonfly]

I hope your bunny will be ok. Boof once got so sick we honestly didn't think he was gonna make it. I can't really give you much advice unless you tell me the specific conditions your rabbit lives in. Does it live inside or out. Is it hot or cold where you are. Is it too drafty? What type of rabbit do you have.

all i can tell you is what we did when it was night time and we had to care for boof. We brought him inside in a little cage and had lots of warm towels in there for him to snuggle into.

also, i know this sounds weird, but it worked! I thought of what i would do if i got sick like him and i put a humidifier in the room with him. It is a simple machine in which you put water and eucalyptus oil, and it heats up and evaporates into the air. It really heaped him breathe.

Boof could barely breathe and he had a really runny nose.

Also i went on the internet and looked up anything that could help. I think there was a suggestion the honey was supposed to help. I wasn't sure, but i was willing to try anything that wouldn't hurt him.

Also keep your rabbits fluids up. THIS IS VERY IMPORTANT!!! If they won't eat or drink use a syringe. Obviously not with an actually needle. If you are not experienced doing this, it is best not to do this as you can get the fluid into their lungs and kill them. If this is the case just put the fluid, (I mixed water with honey, but you can mix it with anything they like) on the end of your finger so they either lick it off or it runs into their mouth. It can get very messy, but at least they are getting something into them.

If your rabbit is jumpy i suggest you put it into a room where people are not going to be coming in, as this will just distress it.

Boof was a house rabbit so he was completely use to humans.

Hope this helps. If you have any other questions just let me know.

Make sure to get your bun bun to the vet though.

[Vermontcat]

I'm sorry to hear that Denver isn't feeling well.
Has he been eating and drinking ok?
I hope that it's nothing too serious and that he feels better soon.

[sasvermont]

I checked first thing this morning. He is still alive and sitting with little Ms. Cinnamon. I will take them both to the vet's this morning, on my way to work. I have to call first just to make sure its ok to drop them off. They are so bonded that I hate to take one without the other.

Denver is eating and drinking. And using the litter box.

They are both outside bunnies but live on a porch, behind a fence. They have lots of space and places to keep warm etc. They have a heated water bowl and lots of hay! I have plastic sheeting up over the screens, so that the cold air will not chill them. The vet thought that this arrangement would be fine. They live out there in the summer as well.

I hesitate to treat big guy Denver myself, without consulting with the vet first. I hope there is nothing seriously wrong with him and I also hope that Ms. Cinnamon does not catch it.

Cinnamon looks so worried and is so attentive toward Denver, its so cute to see it. I think she knows he is not well. Maybe she is jealous! Who knows. They are bonded and yet still very competitive.

I will let you know how it goes at the vets this morning.

Thanks for all your advice. I may end up using your advice after hearing what the vet says.

My fear is that he has eaten one weird object TOO many! He gnaws his way through anything in his path!


Sas

[Pawsitive Thinking]

Hope the cute little guy is feeling better soon

[Blue Dragonfly]

Denver has been in my thoughts and prayers the last couple of days. I really hope he gets better. Do you have a picture of him.

[sasvermont]

Hi, I thought a quick update would be good.

Denver is home, in the guest room, behind a fence, with a humidifier running.......and taking Bactril? ..... in applesauce and bananas..... and feeling just about the same. He will be confined for 10-14 days...leaving poor little Cinnamon by herself, on the porch.

The vet seems to think he has a slight bacterial infection in his sinuses. Bunnys have flora like we do and sometimes it gets out of wack.

The only concern at this point is that he lost 2 lbs. in several months. The upside is that he was over weight by 2 lbs. So if he continues to drop weight, we have another problem.

Right now he is being rather still, and that is what the vet wants.

Thanks for you thoughts and concerns.

I will keep you posted.

He is such a big love bug too!

Here is a photo of his buddy, Cinnamon girl and three Abys!!!!! This was taken before Denver arrived....and before Lucy, the black kitty arrived. Cinnamon had full run of the house and then once Denver arrived and started eating my sofa, they moved to the porch!

http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid110/p62caa30ea69a7d52a19dffc95c5848de/f91ad0b8.jpg



http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid128/pb3e8a8bcff8a5c6cb04108ee9295f9c3/f7de5fca.jpg

This is his adoption photo......he looks the same these days....

[Karen]

We hope he starts feeling better very soon! Being sick is just no fun for anyone.

[Blue Dragonfly]

He is really cute. so did the vet tell you to use the humidifier or did you get the idea from me? Are you using the oil as well?

[sasvermont]

I just got off the phone with the Vet. We are going to syringe the meds into Denver, using apple juice or water with honey. She said fine with adding the oil to the humififier! Thanks so much for your advice.

I am worried about Denver and will spend the weekend hovering over his furry self, to see if some TLC will help out!

Thanks again.

:)

[Pawsitive Thinking]

I am sure some TLC will do the little man the world of good - feel better soon sweetie

[Pom mommy]

Good thoughts to Denver. Baytril is a good bunny medicine. My Buster had it one time and it did what it was suppose to do.

[Marigold2]

Benny and Snowy send good wishes to Denver. Sounds like he is in the best of hands and oh so loved. Kisses Denver on that sweet stuffy nose.

[krazyaboutkatz]

I'm sorry to hear that he's sick:( and I hope that he'll recover quickly and feel better soon. Please continue to keep us updated about him.

[Vermontcat]

It's been a few days since you've updated us on Denver.
Is he feeling better yet?

[buttercup132]

Baytril is a good bunny medicine Oh yes yes yes! It really works fast and clears up alot of things. Hows he feeling?

[Barbara]

Sallyanne I'm sorry I didn't see this for so long. I didn't ahve an idea how nicely Cinnamon and Denver have bonded. So I double wish he is fine.

[Marigold2]

How is Denver???

[Blue Dragonfly]

How is Denver doing? Your silence is making me nervous.

[Randi]

How is Denver doing now, did the medicine help? I hope he's feeling better, and that Cinnamon didn't get it.

[Vermontcat]

I sent Sasvermont a PM requesting an update on Denver.
I noticed she hasn't been online in a week.
Hopefully she will give us an update on Denver soon. :)

[sasvermont]

My home computer is being held hostage by HP and should be Fed Ex'd back to me any day now. Right...... I have been way too busy at work to spend the time to email. Today, Saturday, I came in just to get up to speed with my emails from home.

Denver is doing OK. He has a few more days of being on the Baytril...... he is not worse, but doesn't seem to be better. He is not using his litter box much......just doesn't produce much....unlike him....he is like a poop factory usually. I will check him out this weekend and drop him off again on Monday, if necessary. I hate to have him suffering....he sounds like a sick baby....unable to breathe out of both nostrils. I think I will ask the vet to sedate him and check for an obstruction in his nose! He may not make it back though.

He is eating up a storm, and drinking.......but not giving much back.....hmmmmmm...........

Miley is not any worse either.....and looks a bit healthier than last week. She is eating turkey ... they all are....along with the special dry food!

So, not much is new here. I feel like nurse Sally at the animal hospital...pills....pilling......special foods......lots of steam baths....... actually, they are good for me too.....not the pills, but the steam room/baths.

Thanks for thinking of me. Sorry to worry you. I am having a bad time with HP and their customer service folks. Surprised? I am trying to be diplomatic, but it sure is difficult. They have had my computer since 3/27/07 to fix a hinge! Go figure.

Sas and her brats

[sasvermont]

I borrowed a laptop from work to bring home to use while mine is MISSING IN ACTION!

Denver is not getting better. I will hold off until Monday morning and take him back in to try plan B. It is really bothering me that he is having such a tough time of breathing.

Does anyone have a good guess how long of a time is usual for a bunny to have a cold/infection? He seems to be happy otherwise.

I surely hate to spend a fortune on this guy, but I really have no choice. He is my big boy bunny, no matter what. Pets are expensive to have, that's for sure!

[sasvermont]

I borrowed a laptop from work to bring home to use while mine is MISSING IN ACTION!

Denver is not getting better. I will hold off until Monday morning and take him back in to try plan B. It is really bothering me that he is having such a tough time of breathing.

Does anyone have a good guess how long of a time is usual for a bunny to have a cold/infection? He seems to be happy otherwise.

I surely hate to spend a fortune on this guy, but I really have no choice. He is my big boy bunny, no matter what. Pets are expensive to have, that's for sure!

[sasvermont]

Well, two weeks have gone by. I will be taking Denver to the Vet tomorrow morning and they will knock him out and do xrays. It is going to be hard on him since he is still having problems breathing. He is doing a little better than last week and is still eating up a storm. If he's willing to hang in there, so am I. If I see that he is unhappy.....well.

Fingers crossed for tomorrow.

SAS and Denver

[Blue Dragonfly]

Hmm... he is not pooping. Maybe he has a fur ball? Boof took about a week to show improvement, and about 1-2 weeks more to get back to his old self.

[sasvermont]

I have packed Denver's lunch! and now it is a wait for the clock to tick tick tick to leave for the vet. I know that this might be his last day. He may not make it through the investigative work.

Denver did have some stool activity but not much. Hopefully the vet will be able to determine what is going on with him through the xrays.

Fingers crossed,

[Barbara]

Looks as if your home computer couldn't deal with the new fast connection ;)
I am sorry to hear about Denver. The breathing issue can be something with the heart as well. I wish you all the best.
And what's it about Miley?

Please tell me she's ok.

[Babyboonie]

Good luck with Denver....let us know how he gets on.

[sasvermont]

He is still ill, but made it through the sedation. They found only clogged sinus on one side, the other side is clear. They took a sample to send off to a lab to culture it....fungus or bacterial? He lost more weight, not good, except that he was a pudge butt to begin with. We will have to wait one week or so for the results. He is going back on Baytryl for the next two weeks, again, unless we decide to change meds after the culture results come back.

I bought some tea tree oil tonight and put that in his humidifier. I feel better having the smell drifting through the house so I assume he too can breathe a bit better.

The vet said his xrays showed nothing. His lungs are clear and only his right sinus is a mess. We haven't ruled out a turmor but right now we are thinking infection, not tumor.

I will keep you all posted.

He is such a sweet guy. No trouble at all. I think he is enjoying having the guest room to himself, with lots of attention from me....and from the cats....lots of tasty food several times a day....what more could he ask for...I know, being able to breathe through both nostrils!

The vet bill was outrageous. As my dear, sweet, deceased brother would have said to me ... "think how many new bunnies you could buy with that amount of money"....... He was always scarcastic, but was also an animal lover and would never suggest Denver be PTS. He often said that about my cats and the stories I would tell about the price tags at the vets.

Tonight I asked if I could get a part time job there, at the vets, to get an employee discount! They laughed. Sure. I just met their payroll for Friday!

I love Denver so and would not put him through anything that would torture him. If he has the strength to hang in there and get better, then I will make the money available somehow.

((((((((((((((Denver)))))))))))))))

;)

[Vermontcat]

Sas, I know you have been very busy with work but please do update us on Denver's test results when you get them back.
I hope he feels better soon.

Barbara, I had asked Sas about Miley when I sent her a PM.
Miley had some tests done at the vets just after I had visited.
She is fine, she just needed a change in diet. :)

[Pawsitive Thinking]

Poor Denver - hope you start to feel better soon

[Marigold2]

Sending prayers to you Denver and a xxx for that wiggle nose.

[sasvermont]

Well, Denver is still sick. I hope to hear from the Vet soon. He had a bad night last night. I took him into the bathroom, twice with the shower going full blast to steam up the room. Poor guy. He looks so uncomfortable.

This is really depressing, to see him this way. Only a few more hours/days, I hope, until we either switch meds or.........................let nature take its course.

:(

[Karen]

Poor sick bunny! Kisses to his wee noggin.

[Blue Dragonfly]

Please little Denver, get better. Your mummy loves you. Maybe you can use a human nasal decongestant spray, that worked when boof was sick, but we tried so many things it is hard to know what it is that worked. We were so worried.

[Babyboonie]

I'm so sorry to hear that Denver is still poorly Sas. Try and stay positive, you are doing a wonderful job of looking after him.

Keep us posted with his progress.

Mandy

[sasvermont]

How do I administer it? And what dose? The vet said that some folks use Nebulizers, but we hadn't talked much beyond that.

I think I will try it, if you will be so kind to let me know how and how much.

[sasvermont]

My vet called today. The test results were inconclusive. She has talked with several other vets and they all agree that bunnies seldom, if ever, get things poked up their widdle noses, so the concept of something being lodged up there is out for now. She located a vet that has someone on staff who can read bunny x-rays, and does it with expertise. I will pass on that for the time being. What does your daddy do for a living? Oh he reads bunny x-rays.....right.....

Today’s treatment is as follows: twice daily or until it is gone each day, which ever happens first, Denver will be put under a tent and ventilated with medications mixed by yours truly. He has been tented now for a couple of hours and I will check on him in another few minutes. The meds are: mucomist, Gentacin and Aminophylline mixed with saline solution. The concoction gets put in a bowl/cup on top of the vaporizer. We were going to use a nebulizor (sp) but I didn't want to spring for $185 for the equipment. He would also have to have a little mask put over his face. He is cooperative, but I think it would freak him out too much, since he is one nostril down to begin with!

Hopefully, with the decongestant, and other meds to treat his sinuses, things will begin to improve. He is also staying on the Baytril.

He will need to stay on this regimen for 5 to 7 days. He seemed to enjoy the steam room / bathroom when I would take him in their each day. It helped but I didn't use meds in the water, just natural oils. So I think this may just do the trick. I feel so, so sorry for him.

Fingers crossed that this little guy will pop back.

Oh, also, the vet wants me to remove the hay from his pen and use only cotton towels. That will happen tomorrow, as my evening is being spent concentrating on the meds and the vaporizer treatment.

I will let you know how things are going after tomorrow's dosing.

Thanks for listening.

SAS

[Karen]

Well, hopefully it will help! Poor wee Denver, we'll be thinking of him!

When Miss Hoppy sneezes, and Paul is sniffly, he looks at me and says "We blame YOU!" as I am the one who most goes out into the world, and am less germ-phobic. I DO wash my hands et al, but I am known as a harborer of germs. Way back when I was in college, my brother-in-law would ask to speak to the RA before he'd let me visit them for the weekend to do laundry. If anyone in the dorm was sick, he'd invariably get whatever it was, even if I never showed symptoms.

[sasvermont]

I checked out Nebulizers on the net last night. I found some portable ones that are reasonably priced. I am going to check out a couple of places today, to see about purchasing one. The tent worked, but I think most of the meds ended up as condensation on the tent walls and roof, and not in Denver boy. I will get the Nebulizer and put the bun bun in a towel, over his head and then let him inhale the mist of the concentrated meds rather that doing the tent thing. I may get a mask but later.

He looks just the same this AM after being in the tent all night.

UGH!

[sasvermont]

:rolleyes: I went to a medical supply store and bought a second hand negulizor for the bunny. I put the little devil in my basin in the bathroom and held the contraption up to his widdle nose. He liked it. I have plans to do the thing again tonight. So I will give him a treatment for 20 mins. twice a day! I need to pick up one more med Monday after work to add to his interesting mix and that will break up his mucous, I hope.

:( :confused: :rolleyes: :eek:

[Pawsitive Thinking]

Hope it works little bun bun

[sasvermont]

The vet asked me to remove all the hay from Denver's pen. It dawned on me that for the first time, this fall, I bought 2 bails of hay from a farmer around here. Neither bunny likes to eat the hay, so I thought it would be cost wise, more reasonable to have them using hay for litter, rather than expensive Timothy hay. They were pooping in expensive hay for years. Anyway, my vet asked that I give Denver towels to use for litter rather than hay, because the farmer's hay may just be the reason he is suffering. The hay could contain mold or some contaminant. So now Denver is pooping on my bath towels (I selected ones that I was willing to never see again....) He really is living in the lap of luxury now.

I seem to think he is a bit better this morning, after only three treatments with the Nebulizers. AND the removal of the hay!

I did buy him Timonthy hay to munch on.....but didn't put it in his litter box.

I am hoping that all this idle information will help someone else who might find themselves in this situation.

SAS

[Pawsitive Thinking]

Glad to hear the little guy seems to be perking up :D

[sasvermont]

After one month of being congested, the third medication seemed to work instantly. I have been putting all of his meds in the nebulizer and letting him breath them in......and its works. He ate all of his veggies last night, including the section laced with Baytril......and he looked pretty peppy this AM. I could tell he was feeling better last night because he was more active.

I am not really sure what made him or why he is better. It could be just time......but I changed so many things for him, that it could have been any one and the combination thereof!

I will continue with the meds until he has completely been cured!

What we do for our animals?!!!!!!

Thanks for listening,

A Happy Sas and Denver....

[Prairie Purrs]

Excellent news indeed!

[Karen]

Yay, good to hear! Keep up the good work!

[Babyboonie]

That's great news Sas! I'm so pleased for you...see I said that you were doing a wonderful job of looking after him! Well done - some owners may have given up on him before now...so big congrats to you for sticking in there and helping the little guy fight.

I'm sure I speak for all of us that have been keeping tracks on Denver's progress....I'd love to see some pictures of him!!

[sasvermont]

while giving him his treatment. I have a mask this time. We shall see if he will tolerate that............I guess not.............I will take them with and without the mask!

Thanks for all the good vibes!

Sas

[Pom mommy]

I'm so glad to hear how well Denver is doing. :) :) :D :) :)

[krazyaboutkatz]

I'm so glad to hear that he's doing much better.:)

[sasvermont]

Well, diarreha (sp?) this morning. My guess its from the meds. He is breathing a bit better. I did take photos last night and brought the darn camera to the office to download, but forgot to bring the card reader with me.

Fingers crossed that he keeps improving and no new problems arise.

[Babyboonie]

Hi Sas....just doing my daily check-in! Sorry to hear Denver was a little poorly this morning, it may be due to all the different meds...is he actually taking anything orally? It could also be due to the fact that he had been slightly off his food and managed to eat all his veggies the other day?

Glad to hear the nebulizer seems to be working though - he'll soon be fighting fit again!

[sasvermont]

Can you find the true bunny in this photo?
http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid225/p3f946b08986333b6f4f6a6cc81f78fc0/e9c1cb51.jpg

That darn JuniRose!
http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid225/p72e837f12f47d2f21d658ebf9be94d14/e9c1cb4a.jpg

Denver, waiting for his treatment
http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid225/p2b613f1f5f0cc6cd283eb1590dc03298/e9c1cb35.jpg

Denver tolerating his mask and nebulizer treatment
http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid225/p0d02570c1e81df47352bbf4d0ac3672b/e9c1cb24.jpg

Lucy looking for JUST THE RIGHT TOY!
http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid225/pbbad5f1e6366b73fb78b80b2a8d325bf/e9c1cb4d.jpg

Denver is not that much better today. I am very discouraged. I just know he has lost more weight. Thank goodness he was a fatty at the start of this.

Sass :rolleyes:

One more of the bunny Denver.....

http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid225/p838e6b94de9d58d73e8582612f135618/e9c1cb32.jpg

[Babyboonie]

Don't feel discouraged Sas, as i've said before your doing such a good job with Denver. When is his next trip to the vet?

p.s. those photo's are so sweet! Despite everything Denver is going through he still looks quite happy. I can't believe that he is actually tolerating the nebulizer.....what a sweetie he is.

[sasvermont]

I think he can breathe better when he is getting his treatments. Thanks so much for your concerns.

Sallyanne

P. S. I will try to keep my chin up! :eek:

[Pawsitive Thinking]

You are doing a great job - he's gorgeous

[Pawsitive Thinking]

How's Denver?

[Blue Dragonfly]

Sorry for the late reply, but my internet kept stuffing up. I gave Boof this:

http://www.amcal.com.au/amcalsOwn/product_list.asp?catID=23&pID=173

And i just put a spray up each nostril, he didn't like it, but it really helped. I also spray the nasal spray at about 5cms away. If i put it right next to his nose he would get the full human dose and i knew that wouldn't be good for him.

I didn't know you could use the nebulizer on rabbits. I get asthma sometimes, so i had one lying around the house. Nice to know just in case. What did you put in the nebulizer?

Hope Denver makes a full recovery.

[Vermontcat]

Sas, thanks for posting a few photos of Denver and his kitty sisters Juni and Lucy.
I really hope he can get over this and feel better soon.
Sending get well soon wishes to Denver.

[Karen]

Miss Hoppy would SO NOT tolerate that nebulizer thing - thank goodness she's never needed one. She'd be too busy biting it and really, nothing is allowed to touch her chin, and ... Denver is being a VERY good bunny.

[sasvermont]

:confused: Denver is not improving much at all. He is holding his own though. He is just about finished with his meds again, so I just don't know what to do. I have started using the heated mist with euculuptus again. It makes me feel better anyway.

So, I guess my plan is to just keep at it and let him try to clear this mess by himself. I plan to move him back to his porch soon, but still keep him apart from Cinnamon the other bunny.

Gosh, this is really dragging on. :confused:

[Karen]

Does the vet have any ideas what might be causing it? It didn't begin at the start of maple pollen season, did it?

[sasvermont]

I have run out of medications for Denver. The vet is talking more exploration of his nose. I am not. This poor guy is slowly improving, but not enough for him to gain his weight back.....he is really slim now. I think he is still happy. I am going to rearrange the porch set up this weekend, confine the other Bunny to a cage (god forbid) and let Denver run around. Maybe the exercise will break up some of his congestion. I am at my wit's end. He is going to have to get over this on his own now. I will still nebulize him with the mucomist and eucalyptus oil in the vaporizor, but that is about it.

Wish us luck!

I hope he makes it. :rolleyes: :eek: :(

[krazyaboutkatz]

I'm so sorry to hear that Denver is still having problems.:( Lots of prayers and positive thoughts are being sent his way.

[Cookiebaker]

SAS, I was just wondering how Denver is doing now? I am so sorry that I haven't responded to this thread, though I have kept up with your updates. I hope he is doing at least a little better! Please check in when you can! :)

[Vermontcat]

Sas, how did Denver do over the weekend?
Is he showing any improvement?
I'm still thinking of you and your sweet bunny boy.
I hope he feels better soon.

[Babyboonie]

Hi Sas. Really sorry to hear that poor Denver is still struggling....I can't believe how long this has been going on for. He's certainly a fighter. Keep us updated with any news.....even if you just want to let off some steam yourself.

Take Care xx

[Pawsitive Thinking]

Oh poor little guy - I do hope he starts to feel better soon

[sasvermont]

Well, just this morning, Denver was sounding horrible. I just don't know what to do. I think an experienced bunny person is in order. I may contact the folks in Conn., where I picked him up from the rescue. They have probably seen everything. I am at my wits end.

Denver, however, is eating and using the litter box. He has lost more weight, still, but seems happy.

My vet and I talked a bit over the weekend and she thinks time will heal his ailments! I still nebulize etc. and he eats only things that are really smelly....like cilantro, mints......etc. He does finally eat his spring mix, but only after finishing off his herbs.

So, Denver is the same. He is still in the guest room, by himself, since he has not improved that much......poor guy. He is being such a good little bunny boy. I feel soooo sorry for him.

Stay tuned.

Thanks for listening.

:(

[Hellow]

You need to take him to your nearest rodent vet IMMEDIENTLY! I think that Petsmart/Banfield can care for rodents. Contact them for more infomation. All my thoughts and hopes for your bun!

[buttercup132]

You need to take him to your nearest rodent vet IMMEDIENTLY! I think that Petsmart/Banfield can care for rodents. Contact them for more infomation. All my thoughts and hopes for your bun!
Rabbits aren't rodents. Where abouts are you located? Maybe there is a close rabbit savvy vet to take him to or like you said take him to the rescue you got him from.

I hope he starts feeling better soon.

[krazyaboutkatz]

I sure hope that he'll start feeling better soon. Please continue to keep us updated about him.

[sasvermont]

Well, after nebulizing Denver this morning, he seems to have improved in some ways: 1. His nose is not running 2. His one eye has stopped tearing 3. He is eating more ..... but he still sounds congested and snotty. I did use an antihistimine last night..... just squirted it on his nosey! I think I will try it again tonight.

I never did contact the original place (rescue source) but will do it today.

I have spent over $700 trying to get this "meat rabbit" healed. He is such a little love and is being such a good bun bun..... I JUST WANT HIM TO GET WELL!

:rolleyes:

[Pawsitive Thinking]

Give him an ear tickle from me

[sasvermont]

but I am not sure she knows all that much about rabbits. :eek:

I have called the place where I got Denver, in Massachusetts, and also emailed them. I hope to hear back from them today. I asked them for a name of a good bunny doc in Vermont. My vet just doesn't see that many bunnies with the condition Denver has.................

He is such a little trooper.

I can feel his widdle bones now, not good. I am so happy he was a fat one to begin with. He was ready for the table a couple of months ago. Oh, stop, I would never do that.....just kidding. He really is a bunny brought in to this world to eat!

(((((((((((((Denver))))))))))))) not Dinner.............


:)

[sasvermont]

We are going to start feeding Denver baby food with herbs in it. I have been asked to give him baby medication (benadryl/grape or cherry flavored) twice a day, to see if that helps, along with nebulizing him with mucamist. If after 10 days there is still no improvement, we will take him to a specialist to have a thorough nose investiagation done......looking for either a tumor or a "lodged" object..... since his xrays showed swelling but not what was causing it! I hope he appreciates all this activity. :eek:

[zippy-kat]

Sas, this is really neither here nor there but you mentioned flora...

When my mini lop was ill with a hind gut infection, my bun-savy vet told me I could feed her about a tablespoon of pinacolada, plain, or pineapple yogurt, daily. (Not the fat-free stuff - the regular kind.) While that really has nothing to do with sinuses, it might be a viable option for disgusing meds and/or adding varity to Denver's palate.

Pedialyte is an option, too, if you're concerned about dehydration from the diarrhea. However, Sophie wouldn't touch the stuff... I took a sip and can't say I blame her! YUCK!! :eek:


Good luck with the bun; keeping you guys in my thoughts!

[sasvermont]

Denver did fine with the Benadryl liquid, cherry flavored. I put 2 ml. in a kiddie's measuring plunger thingie...... (I don't have children, can you tell?)....and pushed that stuff right into his widdle mouth! He was shocked at first. The flavor is strong, but I think he liked it! I did the same this morning....hehehehehehehe. He licks his chops after I shoot the junk in.....its so darn funny. We were afraid the junk would make him hyper, but it is not, its making him sleepy! Phewwwwwwww.

So ten days of this and then what?

:rolleyes:

[Pawsitive Thinking]

Keep taking your meds little Denver - what a good bun bun you are

[sasvermont]

Last evening, I moved Denver from the guest room to the porch. He is in a pen , by himself and not in touch with the other bunny at all. They can see each other, but that is about it! I covered his pen with a blanket last night, to keep him warm and feeling loved. He ate like a champ this morning - and it is the first time I have seen him really happy to eat Spring Mix .... it was his favorite until this nose things came in to play.

I hope there is much improvement today and over the weekend. I bought him bunny vitamins to take too.

I have the phone number for the exotict pet vet at Tuft's University and if Denver does not improve over the weekend, I will ask my vet to call for advice.

Wish us luck!

:confused:

[Killearn Kitties]

We have everything crossed here for Denver!

[zippy-kat]

Keeping tabs on you and Denver. Here's to a weekend full of improvements!

[Babyboonie]

Everything's crossed for Denver this weekend! :)

[sasvermont]

He is eating everything now. I went to the health food store and bought every kind of exotic herb I could find. I am trying to fix him with good, healthy food! He is still using the nebulizer and taking benadryl but that is about it.

If Denver is still suffering by this weekend, as much as he is now, I am going to opt for a round of a different antibiotic, in liquid form. I am going to call the vet today, to set up an appointment.

He is out on my porch in his cadillac cage, covered at night to keep warm, and happy as a clam, watching Cinnamon run all around the porch. I would have switched them and put Cinnamon in the cage, but Denver has a tendency to eat anything and everything in sight, including rugs, brooms, you name it. I thought that keeping his intake of foreign objects should be kept to a minimum.....thus the cage.

I have never seen a bunny with as much strength as Denver. He has been trying to breathe for almost two months now!

Thanks for listening!

SAS :rolleyes:

[Pawsitive Thinking]

Keep breathing little Denver - you are a superhero-bun bun :D

[sasvermont]

I gave Denver his first dose of Zithromax and he tolerated the cherry flavored junk. I have to give it to him only once a day, for 14 days! . His appetite is still going strongly. The vet agreed that that alone is a good sign. She said he may breathe like he is doing now, for some time.

I think he is going to make it! Phewwwww. We still have a few hurdles but I do think he is getting better.

Bunnies.......now I will have the re-introduction thing to worry about when he is all better! I look forward to that, though! :D

[Pawsitive Thinking]

Yippee!!!!! this calls for some celebration photos

[sasvermont]

I am exhausted from this amount of attention to one pet, for such a long time....my gosh. I can really appreciate what it takes to have a cronic condition with constant needs. Miley, the one cat takes a pill twice a day, but that is about it except for fur face Denver these days! :eek: I still will do the nebulizer and Benadryl. Ugh.

[Pawsitive Thinking]

Look forward to seeing them

[Vermontcat]

Sas, I am so happy to hear that Denver is finally eating better and showing other signs of improvement.
I know you have put a lot of time and money into getting him healthy again.

Here is a photo that I took of Denver and Cinnamon when I visited you in March.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v103/vtcat/pets/denvercinn.jpg
I didn't post it before because I didn't think it was a very good photo of them.
(Poor Denver got redeye from the flash and Cinnamon was too fluffy to even see her eyes)
Hopefully Denver keeps improving and you will have some new photos to share with us. :)

[Blue Dragonfly]

i am so happy denver is feeling better. denver make sure to make up for the lack of appetite by pigging out now. lol.

[Barbara]

Hey, that's great that Denver is feeling better. No wonder he wasn't hungry when he could not smell the food.

[Babyboonie]

That's great news Sas....i'm so pleased for little Denver and of course you. Maybe soon you will be able to spend some time pampering yourself!

[sasvermont]

Denver still sounds the same, but is back to normal behavior other than that. I called the vet yesterday, to ask about doing an exploratory test up his (Denver's) nose and the specialist said he was not sure he could get anything up the bun bun's nose and if he could it would cost between 800-1000 dollars. Well, I think Denver is going to have to repair with the meds and treatment that are in place. I have already spent lots of money on this guy and there is a limit, really. Even if I had the special test done, there is a big chance that they will find nothing!

I will keep everyone posted. Hopefully, his immune system will kick in and cure him of this nasty virus/infection.

My vet said that I may have to get accustomed to hearing him breath the way his does, forever!

So, things are better for Denver, just not back to normal!

:confused:

[Marigold2]

Oh Denver glad you are feeling better.:D

[sasvermont]

Denver is not worse but not that much better. He is eating up a storm and yet still sounds congested. I am planning on building an outside cage for the summer months - with sun and shade and a more natual setting. Of course, lots of security since I live in the country and there are many predators! Maybe the fresh air (although there is fresh air on the porch) will do him some good. I don't have the two bunnies together just beside each other, behind fences.

So, Denver is hanging in there.

I think I have given it my all and just want mother nature to do her thing now. :o

[Pawsitive Thinking]

I think I have given it my all and just want mother nature to do her thing now. :o

I would do the same - just keep an eye on his appetite ;)

[Babyboonie]

Hi Sas

How's Denver doing? We haven't heard from you in a while, I hope everything is ok.

[sasvermont]

I have made an appointment at the Vet's for Denver boy. I think he is struggling to breath way too much and it is breaking my heart. I have done all I can for him. He is still eating and using the litter box, but to see him gasping for his breath is not pleasant for me or for him. He is doing the best he can and so am I. He needs relief.

So, it is with a heavy heart that I decided to let him go be with the other bunnies, kittens, and pupsters at Rainbow Bridge on Saturday, 11:30.

I cried when making the appointment and still have hope that he will be better by Saturday. He has been sick since March. The time has come. He needs to be without struggle. I cannot stop crying.

[krazyaboutkatz]

I'm so sorry to hear this sad news.:( If it's his time I hope that everything goes smoothly and he crosses the Bridge peacefully. Please take care. (((HUGS)))

[ChrisH]

Oh, sas. :( I haven't posted before but I have been popping in to see how Denver's doing and hoping (saying a prayer too) that he would get better. I am so, so sorry. http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v11/CwmmawrJet/Smiles/Hugs2.gif

[sasvermont]

I just can't do it. I hope he appreciates how much anguish this is causing me. He is trying so hard to hang in there, so I guess I will too. Sorry for the alarming message earlier.

I am just not that tough.

Ugh x 1,000,000

:confused:

[ChrisH]

sas, I'm glad you're keeping on hanging on with your boy. {{hugs}} Prayers on the way.

[Vermontcat]

Sas, I'm so sorry to hear that Denver still isn't feeling well. :(
Hang in there, hopefully he will improve soon.
I'm sending hugs your way, let me know if there is anything I can do for you.

[sasvermont]

I was just reading posts from other forums and also from the rabbit friendly sites on the net, and a few have mentioned that sometimes bunnies catch a bug that stays with them the rest of their lives. Bunnies, in general, do not have a long shelf life, so it isn't a long term (relative) ... I am feeling ok about watching him struggle....for the time being.....

I have a garden this summer and Denver really enjoys all the lettuce and herbs and for no other reason, he is eating up a storm.

I am not sure why I decided to call the vet - to make the dreaded appointment, but it felt right at the time..... I suppose I was feeling horrible about his breathing .... He also has begun to "slobber" down the front of himself..... I wonder if there is a bunny nursing home for him? Oh, yes, its here!

I am sure I am not the only person who has made the appointment and then changed her mind....... Again, forgive me for the alarm, only to have cancelled it.

Off to the bunny.....I hear him now.....it sounds like he is sucking air all the time..... like a suction cup noise.....not pleasant!

:eek:

[zippy-kat]

I couldn't reply to your "alarm" as I wasn't sure what to say; I could feel the deep hurt in your post. It saddened me to know "we" were losing Denver, and more so that he was losing his struggle with the illness.

I'm still saddened that he isn't 100% but quite glad that he's still around for you to share. Many blessings of health and hoppiness to you both!

Get well, sweet Denver!

[Blue Dragonfly]

owww i know what that it like. only recently i was about to ring the vet and get my baby scruffy (guinea pig) put down. when i checked in the morning though, she had already passed away.

It was strange though. she had cancer under her chin so you could see it or feel it until it was too big. her strange breathing noises triggered me off. she wasnt in too much pain, because she was still chirpy and hungry. she must have passed away quickly.

angel, one of my other guinea pigs has cancer on her cheek. she is old, so surgery would not do much to extend her life. she doesnt seem to care about it at all though. it is huge, but because it is not internal, it is fine. maybe it is just some kind of a growth, not cancer. or the cancer is just not spreading. the only time she had a problem with it was when her sister dutchess bit her and she hit the cancer. must have nerves going through it cause she squealed so load i heard it from inside and came running. it was bleeding a little but i stopped it. if it starts causing her to be in pain or uncomfortable, i am taking her to the vet to be put down. i have never had to do it with any of my animals.

it would be a haard decision, because life just seems so sacred, but you dont want them to suffer either. I know when boof got sick, we all honestly thought he was gonna die. i still dont believe that he is alive sometimes. you have no idea how sick he was. seriously, it must have been a miracle, God must have heard our prayers. i just keep thinking, what if... the same thing happened to another one of my pets, but i put it down first. argh i hate it.

[Pawsitive Thinking]

If Denver had had enough he would just stop eating and give up....that's not happening at the moment.

Give that brave bunny a few kisses from me

[sasvermont]

This morning, I went to check on the bun buns and Denver was in his little cardboard castle / house sitting in it leaving just his head out and eating from his bowl of food. I always leave pellets out and give them fruits and veggies once a day. He was eating pellets. He devours lettuce and herbs and fruits, but mostly lettuce. I have lots growing in my garden, so he gets it right from the ground. Couldn't be any fresher!

Cinnamon was no where to be found when I was checking, but upon a closer inspection, she was smack up against Denver, tucked to his side, watching him eat. It was so darn cute. They have a love/hate relationship, but are mostly in love these days. I think her being there will give him more reason to hang on.

So, another month of hearing him try to catch his breath while eating..... He seems to be drinking lots these days too. It is hot and humid out, so that would make sense. Yes, they both are in the shade, on the porch, with cats visiting on and off all day.

JuniRose, my one Aby likes to roll on Denver and Cinnamon. She makes a real itch of herself. They sometimes fight back and she could care less. Juni is Juni. She loves the bunnies. She wants to be a bunny. I do have an odd lot here at Camp Vermont.

Thanks for caring about my sweet bunny boy Denver.

I know everyone's support helps in the long run. At least I feel better!

:)

[Barbara]

Oh Sallyanne, this woke memories ;)
It is fun to see Juni Rose trying to roll on the bunnies - she is in love with them because they are so nice and fuzzy I am sure.
And good that Cinnamon and Denver are back in love again.
I am sure Denver enjoys all the nice fresh fruit and veggies- well we were very happy with it so why shouldn't he be;)

[AdoreMyDogs]

Sas I'm sorry I didn't see this thread until now. I just wanted to tell you what a hero you are to Denver and what an inspiration you are to people who consider bunnies 'disposable pets'. I know none of those people 'reside' here in PT land, but they are out there and they all need to meet you!

I will put Denver in my prayers. I really, really hope he starts breathing better. Gosh, you are truly an amazing person to fight so hard for Denver. I can tell from your posts how much you love him. Poor guy :(

[sasvermont]

Denver is doing ok. I have been dumping tons of veggies fresh from the garden and he lots them. I am hoping he can kick this thing eventually. I am going to the vet tomorrow, with two well cats, for check ups and I will talk with the vet about Denver, once again.

He seems happy and especially to be back with Cinnamon, his little furry buddy.

He still has a nasty nose discharge and sounds horrible, but it isn't killing him, so, we will learn to adjust. I will have to rethink the winter time though. I may have to house them inside this year as frozen discharge just doens't sound like fun to me.

I will keep you posted.

I will admit, each time I look in on the bun buns, I expect to find Denver expired. So far, not so!

Thanks again. :)

[Karen]

Thanks for the update, we were wondering how Denver was doing.

[Pawsitive Thinking]

Cuddles and kisses to a very special bunbun

[sasvermont]

When I fed the two this AM, they were all cuddled up together. The big and the small of it all! I hope having Cinnamon to keep him going, he will recover sooner. He is still breathing oddly, at best, but also still eating and pooping up a storm. Also drinking lots of water.

Thanks for thinking of us! ;)

[ChrisH]

That sounds good sas! :) Thanks for the update.

Prayers continuing.