Mr. Bunny is still losing fur…and it’s been 5 months

[FluffyBunny]

Background for those who don’t know: Mr. Bunny first started getting rashy bald spots in November  of 2009. He was diagnosed with fur mites (after several cultures) and recieved about 5 Ivermectin doses. After those failed to treat the bald spots, he got 3 Selemectin treatments, the most recent of which was given on April 10th. After almost half a year and 8 fur mite treatments, today I still got a gigantic furball of loose fur from multiple new rashy bald spots all over his body.

What do you think I should do? My parents just want to waste money getting 3 more Selemectin treatments – but honestly, enough already. I’m doubting he even has fur mites – even the severe cases online were better within 2 months. However – it’s obvious to me now that the vet actually doesn’t know much about rabbits. He did offer (before the selemectin treatments) to do a biopsy, but I honestly don’t know if I could trust him to put my bunny in surgery. And I have no idea how I’d get my parents to bring him back to the vet again anyway. 

 

What should I do? Has anyone had a bunny who’s just gotten bald spots like this for half a year, despite treatments? If it’s not fur mites or fungus, what could it be?

 

I miss seeing a Mr. Bunny who isn’t covered in bald spots…

[Sarita]

Oh goodness. I guess then I might consider it to be ringworms – have you treated for that. Ivermectin and selemectin really should cure any mites or mange too.

[KatnipCrzy]

were they ever able to find mites in the samples- or did they do cultures- have those negative and then determine it must be mites then?

I don’t know if your parents will agree- but the next logical step would be a second opinion by another vet- preferably a veterinary dermatologist- but even another regular DVM might have more insight into this.

A biopsy can give great, precise results or sometimes they can be inconclusive.

[Author]

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