Ruptured Cecum – discussion

[Azerane]

As some of you may or may not know, in January my rabbit, Bandit passed away after sustaining a ruptured cecum. This was due to an incident that occurred during routine handling. I was carrying him for grooming, he struggled, I held on so he wouldn’t fall and he was injured as a result. I just want to highlight how easy of a thing it was that happened and how much care should be taken when handling, I know I was being careful and it still went wrong. I also just want to provide some wider knowledge on the issue.

A few days ago I asked Dr Dana Krempels about it on the All Experts website. At the time of the accident, I was at the vet within 45 minutes, but they didn’t perform an ultrasound to diagnose until about another hour and a half later. Because of this, I was concerned that there may have been something that could have been done to save him, had I fought more for them to do the ultrasound immediately (the vet clinic didn’t seem to take me seriously on how urgent and serious Bandit’s condition was).

Despite the fact that it’s sad, Dana’s response has helped put my mind at ease. Her first words were “there is nothing that could be done for a ruptured cecum.”

She continues “The cecum wall is tissue-paper thin, and while it is pliable, it is very delicate.  I cannot imagine that it would take sutures or even glue well.  Also, the bacteria from the cecum would already have contaminated the abdominal cavity, so peritonitis would have been inevitable, and a horrible, painful death. I am sorry for his death, but a quick passing was definitely better than the lingering one he could have suffered.”

While it’s sad to read that there was no hope for my little guy, I feel better knowing that I did all that I could and an ultrasound earlier would not have made any difference.

I just thought I would post about this in case anyone else is searching for information regarding a ruptured cecum. When I was told what had caused Bandit’s death, I tried reading into it but really couldn’t find any information. So hopefully this will help someone out there.

[Bam]

Azerane, I just want to say that I’m so glad that you asked Dana Krempels and got the answer you got.
Bandit’s story is heart-breaking and I think of it often.

[Q8bunny]

I was in tears reading your story. It’s a bittersweet reply from Dr K indeed.

[LittlePuffyTail]

So very sad to read but I’m glad you are no longer troubled.

I know how hard it is to have unanswered questions. I have questions about Olivia’s passing.

[Mikey]

Im sorry you and him had to go through that, but im very glad you have some peace of mind about it now. I had no idea anything like that could even happen, My Blue sometimes struggles when held, if hes not comfortable enough the way you were originally holding him. This is something ill be keeping in mind from now on, and will better work on quick holding positions that are comfortable to him

[Azerane]

Thank you everyone. It was a difficult answer to get, but has eased my mind in some ways. I suppose it’s the sort of question I could have directed at my regular vet (since we saw a different after hours vet that day) but I thought who better to ask than the expert.

@Mikey, I had no idea anything like it could happen either. I thought I was doing the right thing by not letting him fall, but obviously it was just an unlucky combination of me holding and him squirming the wrong way.

[MimzMum]

Thank you for this post, Azerane. While it comes on the heels of your personal tragedy, for which you have my utmost sympathy, this is good information to be reminded of that our bunnies can be rather delicate, especially in certain areas. I will take your message to heart and be very much more careful when moving my rabbits to and fro or putting them into/taking them out of their carriers or enclosures.

My heartfelt condolences on the loss of Bandit. ((((((Hugs)))) xx

[jerseygirl]

You must be still feeling the loss so much. It can take a long time. I’m glad this feedback from Dana Krempels has helped in some way.
Thank you for sharing this information. This could have happened to anyone. I know I’ve grabbed my rabbits in a hurry to try and secure them. I will also be more mindful.

Since you’ve joined BB, I’ve enjoyed hearing about Bandit and seeing photos. It’s a nice way to remember and honour him.

[Author]

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