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OBJECTIVE To characterize the epidemiologic features of rabbits with odontogenic abscesses. ANIMALS 72 client-owned rabbits. METHODS The medical record database of a veterinary teaching hospital was searched to identify rabbits with odontogenic abscesses characterized by a palpable facial mass and confirmed via CT scan. Data reviewed included age, breed, presenting complaint, abscess location, bacterial culture results, treatment, and outcome. RESULTS Lop-eared rabbits were the most common breeds affected (20/72 [28%]), and mini lop rabbits were significantly overrepresented. The mandibular quadrants were more frequently affected (65/92 [71%]), and osteomyelitis was a common comorbidity on CT (53/72 [74%]). The most common aerobic and anaerobic isolates were Streptococcus spp ( 17/40 [43%]) and Fusobacterium splp ( 10/22 [45%]), respectively. Systemic antibiotic therapy alone was performed in 35 of 62 (56%) treated cases, with documented resolution in 25%. Abscess packing with antibiotic-soaked gauze in conjunction with systemic antibiotic therapy was performed in 20 of 62 (32%) treated cases. Resolution of the odontogenic abscesses with this treatment protocol was documented in 17 of 20 (85%) cases. The number of packing procedures used to obtain resolution of infection was 4 (IQR, 3 to 5). CLINICAL RELEVANCE A combination of the abscess-packing technique, which avoids extensive surgery and extraction of the involved elodont teeth, with systemic antibiotic therapy can be an effective treatment option for rabbits with palpable odontogenic abscesses and can result in a high cure rate comparable to more invasive surgical treatments. Antibiotic treatment alone is not recommended, as it has a low chance of abscess resolution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite its ubiquitous infectivity to mammals with strong host specificity, our current knowledge about Pneumocystis has originated from studies of merely 4% of extant mammalian species. Further studies of Pneumocystis epidemiology across a broader range of animal species require the use of assays with high sensitivity and specificity. To this end, we have developed multiple universal Pneumocystis primers targeting different genetic loci with high amplification efficiency. Application of these primers to PCR investigation of Pneumocystis in free-living hares (Lepus townsendii, n = 130) and rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus, n = 8) in Canada revealed a prevalence of 81% (105/130) and 25% (2/8), respectively. Genotyping analysis identified five and two variants of Pneumocystis from hares and rabbits, respectively, with significant sequence divergence between the variants from hares. Based on phylogenetic analysis using nearly full-length sequences of the mitochondrial genome, nuclear rRNA operon and dihydropteroate synthase gene for the two most common variants, Pneumocystis in hares and rabbits are more closely related to each other than either are to Pneumocystis in other mammals. Furthermore, Pneumocystis in both hares and rabbits are more closely related to Pneumocystis in primates and dogs than to Pneumocystis in rodents. The high prevalence of Pneumocystis in hares (P. sp. 'townsendii') suggests its widespread transmissibility in the natural environment, similar to P. oryctolagi in rabbits. The presence of multiple distinct Pneumocystis populations in hares contrasts with the lack of apparent intra-species heterogeneity in P. oryctolagi, implying a unique evolution history of P. sp. 'townsendii' in hares. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Coxiella burnetii, the causative agent of Q fever, is a zoonotic multi‐host vector‐borne pathogen of major public health importance. Although the European Food Safety Authority has recently made the monitoring of this bacterium in wildlife a priority, the role of wild lagomorphs in the transmission and maintenance of C. burnetii is poorly understood. Aims: The aims of this study were to determine the prevalence and risk factors associated with C. burnetii circulation in European wild rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus) and Iberian hares (Lepus granatensis) and to assess the presence of this pathogen in ticks that feed on them in Mediterranean ecosystems in Spain, the country with the highest number of reported cases of Q fever in Europe. Methods: A total of 574 spleen samples were collected from 453 wild rabbits and 121 Iberian hares, and 513 ticks (processed in 120 pools) between the 2017/2018 and 2021/2022 hunting seasons. Results: C. burnetii DNA was detected in 103 (17.9%; 95% CI: 14.8–21.1) of the 574 wild lagomorphs tested. By species, prevalence was 16.3% (74/453; 95% CI: 12.9–19.7) in the European wild rabbit and 24.0% (29/121; 95% CI: 16.4–31.6) in the Iberian hare. At least one positive lagomorph was found on 47.9% of the 96 hunting estates sampled and in every hunting season since 2018/2019. Two risk factors associated with C. burnetii infection were as follows: outbreak of myxomatosis on the hunting estate in the month prior to sampling and high tick abundance observed by gamekeepers on the hunting estate. C. burnetii DNA was also found in 33 of the 120 (27.5%; 95% CI: 19.5–35.5) tick pools tested. The pathogen was detected in 66.7% (4/6), 29.2% (26/89) and 21.4% (3/14) of Haemaphysalis hispanica, Rhipicephalus pusillus and Hyalomma lusitanicum pools respectively. Conclusions: This study provides new epidemiological data on C. burnetii in European wild rabbits and is the first survey on this zoonotic pathogen performed in Iberian hares. Our results indicate widespread endemic circulation of C. burnetii and highlight the importance of both wild lagomorph species as natural reservoirs of this zoonotic bacterium in Mediterranean ecosystems in southern Spain, which may be of public and animal health concern. The high prevalence and wide diversity of positive tick species suggest the possible role of ticks in the epidemiological cycle of C. burnetii, with the potential risk of transmission to sympatric species, including humans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Domestic rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus) are the fourth most common species admitted to the British Columbia Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (BC SPCA) shelter system. However, shelter data analysis has largely focused on cats and dogs and little is known about the population dynamics of rabbits in shelters. We analyzed five years of rabbit records (n = 1567) at the BC SPCA to identify trends in intake and predictors of length of stay (LOS) of rabbits. The majority of rabbits were surrendered by their owners (40.2%), with most rabbits being surrendered for human-related reasons (96.9%). Overall, rabbit intakes decreased over the study period. When analyzing by month of intake, rabbit intakes were found to be the highest in May. Most rabbits in our data were adults (46.7%), non-brachycephalic (66.7%), erect-eared (82.5%), short-furred (76.2%), and subsequently adopted (80.3%). The median LOS of rabbits was 29 days, highlighting the pressing need to improve their time to adoption. A linear model was constructed to identify predictors of LOS of adopted rabbits (n = 1203) and revealed that intake year, intake month, source of intake, age, cephalic type, and breed size significantly predicted time to adoption for rabbits (F(37, 1165) = 7.95, p < 2.2e-16, adjusted R2 = 0.18). These findings help characterize shelter population dynamics for rabbits, shed light on the challenges associated with unwanted rabbits, and offer a foundation for animal shelters to design programs and marketing strategies tailored to reduce LOS of rabbits with particular characteristics. Shelter rabbits represent an understudied population and our study highlights the importance of further research in companion rabbits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Domestic rabbits are one of the most commonly kept pets with a hypselodontic type of dentition, possessing teeth that grow throughout the animal's life. These animals often show signs of disease in the stomatognathic system. Dental disease can also affect the function of other organs and systems. The most common clinical signs of dental disease in domestic rabbits are the following: lack of appetite, weight loss, apathy, and difficulty chewing and swallowing food. These clinical signs are non-specific, and, therefore, a definitive diagnosis usually requires additional methods, such as an X-ray examination, a CT scan, MRI, and endoscopic examination. The most common dental disease found in this study's animals was malocclusion secondary to abnormal clinical crown abrasion and abnormal tooth growth. In domestic rabbits, osteomyelitis is a common complication of dental abscesses. Computed tomography is an invaluable diagnostic method in the diagnosis of dental disease and secondary diseases of the head area, such as inflammation of the nasal cavities or otitis media, in pet rabbits. Domestic rabbits have teeth that grow throughout the animal's life and are prone to disease. Clinical signs of dental disease in domestic rabbits are non-specific, and, therefore, a definitive diagnosis usually requires additional methods. This study was carried out on a group of 105 domestic rabbits aged 3 to 9 years. In total, 90 domestic rabbits with dental disease visible on CT images and other secondary diseases of the head area qualified for this study. Malocclusion was found in 57 (63.3%). Retrograde elongation of the tooth apices in the mandible was present in 39 (43.3%), and it was present in the maxilla in 48 (53%). Clinical tooth crowns were overgrown in 39 (43%). Dental abscesses were present in 54 (63%). Secondary to the presence of a dental abscess, osteomyelitis was found in 43 (79% of the animals with a dental abscess). Dental inflammatory resorption was found in 36 (40%). Secondary to dental disease, nasal cavity inflammation was found in 18 (20%). Otitis media was present in six (6.7%). The most common dental disease found in this study's animals was malocclusion secondary to abnormal clinical crown abrasion and abnormal tooth growth. In domestic rabbits, osteomyelitis is a common complication of dental abscesses. Computed tomography is an invaluable diagnostic method in the diagnosis of dental disease and secondary diseases of the head area, such as inflammation of the nasal cavities or otitis media, in pet rabbits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although herbal drugs are often considered safe for consumption, there is increasing evidence that some can generate undesirable health effects. However, polyphenols found in certain plants have been shown to provide a range of benefits for human health. In previous work, a standardized and quantified extract (P2Et) obtained from Caesalpinia spinosa (Dividivi) plant showed promising antioxidant, immunomodulatory, and anti-inflammatory properties in animal models of cancer and COVID-19 patients. The extract has also been subjected to genotoxicity, mutagenicity, and 28-day oral chronic toxicity evaluations, demonstrating a good safety profile. To advance preclinical and clinical development, further acute and chronic toxicity evaluations of the P2Et extract were performed. Acute toxicity tests were performed orally in Wistar rats at a dose of 2000 mg/kg, indicating that the lethal dose 50% (LD50) value exceeded 2000 mg/kg and classifying the P2Et extract as category 5 according to the Globally Harmonized System of Classification (GHS). In this work, chronic toxicity tests were conducted for 180 days on Wistar rats and New Zealand rabbits at a dose of 1000 mg/kg under Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) conditions. No weight loss or alterations in biochemical and hematological parameters associated with treatment were observed in the animals, suggesting the absence of toxicity in the assessed parameters. These results indicate that the P2Et extract is safe for oral administration at doses up to 1000 mg/kg body weight over a six-month period. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to strengthen the antioxidant defenses against the toxic effect of mercury, by administering a synthetic antioxidant (vitamin E) and a natural product rich in antioxidant compounds (virgin olive oil) to rabbits. Hepatic and renal biomarker levels, cortisol and testosterone synthesis, mercury concentration, relative weight of organs, and tissue architecture were studied. The results showed a significant decrease in the plasma alkaline phosphatase (ALP), plasma aspartate aminotransferase (AST), serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT), plasma testosterone levels, and relative weight of the liver, testes, and adrenal in the mercury treated group (group M), while the other indices were significantly increased in the m-group compared to the control (group C). However, the group treated with olive oil combined with mercury (group O) showed a significant decrease in the ALP, AST, ALT, testosterone levels, and adrenal relative weight, while plasma creatinine, uric acid levels, mercury concentration in organs, and the kidney relative weight were significantly increased. Vitamin E supplementation (group E) led to a significant decrease in the ALP, testosterone levels, and adrenal relative weight, a significant increase was observed in plasma levels of triglycerides, creatinine, and uric acid. Histological sections of the liver, kidney, testis, and adrenal of group M showed severe tissue damage, while the other groups showed less important tissue alterations demonstrating that supplementation with natural or synthetic antioxidants can protect against the toxicity of heavy metals such as mercury, improving the health of rabbits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Bioengineered tracheal grafts are a potential solution for the repair of long‐segment tracheal defects. A recent advancement is partially decellularized tracheal grafts (PDTGs) which enable regeneration of host epithelium and retain viable donor chondrocytes for hypothesized benefits to mechanical properties. We propose a novel and tunable 3D‐printed bioreactor for creating large animal PDTG that brings this technology closer to the bedside. Methods: Conventional agitated immersion with surfactant and enzymatic activity was used to partially decellularize New Zealand white rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus) tracheal segments (n = 3). In parallel, tracheal segments (n = 3) were decellularized in the bioreactor with continuous extraluminal flow of medium and alternating intraluminal flow of surfactant and medium. Unprocessed tracheal segments (n = 3) were also collected as a control. The grafts were assessed using the H&E stain, tissue DNA content, live/dead assay, Masson's trichrome stain, and mechanical testing. Results: Conventional processing required 10 h to achieve decellularization of the epithelium and submucosa with poor chondrocyte viability and mechanical strength. Using the bioreactor reduced processing time by 6 h and resulted in chondrocyte viability and mechanical strength similar to that of native trachea. Conclusion: Large animal PDTG created using our novel 3D printed bioreactor is a promising approach to efficiently produce tracheal grafts. The bioreactor offers flexibility and adjustability favorable to creating PDTG for clinical research and use. Future research includes optimizing flow conditions and transplantation to assess post‐implant regeneration and mechanical properties. Level of Evidence: NA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Prey species develop anti-predatory strategies as a response to minimising the risk of being predated. However, how the European rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus) adapts to different predator pressure is not fully known. Here, we studied the adaptive anti-predatory responses of European rabbits exposed to different terrestrial predation pressure. To do this, we took advantage of a rabbit translocation programme in the Sierra Norte Natural Park of Sevilla (SW Spain), where rabbits from the same donor population were translocated in plots with and without terrestrial predator exclusion fences (aerial predation was not excluded in any of the plots). This presented an ideal opportunity to observe whether the behaviour of individuals from the same population adapts to situations with different predator pressure; thus, their behaviour was evaluated through direct observations. Although most rabbits were observed close to cover, differences in distance to cover, group size and behaviour were observed between fenced and unfenced plots. Overall, both adult and juvenile rabbits moved further from cover in the unfenced plot than in the fenced plot. Most of the observations in the unfenced plot corresponded to rabbits in pairs or alone; whereas in the fenced plot, rabbits were primarily in pairs or in larger groups. Our findings suggest that in the unfenced plot, rabbits that moved further from cover were often part of larger groups (≥ 4 rabbits); whereas in the fenced plot, it was rabbits in smaller groups (< 4 rabbits). Rabbits in the unfenced plot were alert and running more frequently than rabbits in the fenced one; in the latter, these rabbits were mostly feeding. Other relaxed behaviours such us grooming or resting were more frequent close to cover. In summary, our results highlight rabbits' capacity to promptly adjust behaviour in response to predation risk, exhibiting adaptive anti-predatory responses tailored to different predation pressures. These insights contribute to understanding the nuanced dynamics of prey species' responses to diverse predation scenarios. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to characterize the bacterial and eukaryotic microbiota of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract in domestic rabbits and to evaluate the effect of different diet characteristics, such as pelleting, extrusion, and hay supplementation. ANIMALS: 30 New Zealand White rabbits (15 male and 15 female; 6 to 7 months old) were fed 1 of 6 diets (5 rabbits per diet) for 30 days after an initial acclimation period. At the end of the trial, samples were collected from the stomach, small intestine, cecum, large intestine, and hard feces. METHODS: The samples were analyzed using 16S rRNA and internal transcribed spacer 1 region-targeted amplicon sequencing. RESULTS: The bacterial microbiota was distinct between the foregut and hindgut. The most abundant bacterial genera included an unclassified genus in the Bacteroidales order and Alistipes. Candida was the most abundant genus in the eukaryotic dataset. In the bacterial dataset, diet No Hay/Pellet E was shown to have lower diversity (Shannon diversity, P < .05) compared to all diet groups except for No Hay/Pellet M. Few significant differences in alpha-diversity indexes between diet groups were detected in the eukaryotic dataset. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Our findings demonstrated that feeding hay had a significant effect on the beta diversity of the bacterial microbiota. Given the prevalence of gastrointestinal disease in the domestic rabbit population, furthering our understanding of what constitutes a healthy rabbit microbiota and the effects of different diets on the microbial community can help veterinarians implement better intervention strategies and allow pet owners to provide the best level of care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rabbit haemorrhage disease virus 2 (RHDV2) is a highly pathogenic lagovirus that causes lethal disease in rabbits and hares (lagomorphs). Since its first detection in Europe in 2010, RHDV2 has spread worldwide and has been detected in over 35 countries so far. Here, we provide the first detailed report of the detection and subsequent circulation of RHDV2 in New Zealand. RHDV2 was first detected in New Zealand in 2018, with positive samples retrospectively identified in December 2017. Subsequent time-resolved phylogenetic analysis suggested a single introduction into the North Island between March and November 2016. Genetic analysis identified a GI.3P-GI.2 variant supporting a non-Australian origin for the incursion; however, more accurate identification of the source of the incursion remains challenging due to the wide global distribution of the GI.3P-GI.2 variant. Furthermore, our analysis suggests the spread of the virus between the North and South Islands of New Zealand at least twice, dated to mid-2017 and around 2018. Further phylogenetic analysis also revealed a strong phylogeographic pattern. So far, no recombination events with endemic benign New Zealand rabbit caliciviruses have been identified. This study highlights the need for further research and surveillance to monitor the distribution and diversity of lagoviruses in New Zealand and to detect incursions of novel variants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Cyclades Islands (Aegean Sea, Greece) are part of the Mediterranean Basin biodiversity hotspot and harbor a plethora of endemic species. Plant communities on the smaller islands in this region have largely evolved in the absence of herbivory and frequently lack antiherbivore defenses. This study evaluates the short- and long-term effects of the European rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus), an herbivore that has been released on numerous islands in the region, by comparing islands that 1. have historically been rabbit-free (ungrazed); 2. are currently grazed by rabbits, and 3. have previously been grazed, but are now rabbit-free. Ecological impacts of rabbits on the Aegean Islands were investigated by assessing the abundance, composition, and diversity of plant and arthropod communities as well as soil characteristics. Our results indicate that ungrazed islands have more arthropod species, more specialized or endemic plant species, and less exposed soil than currently grazed islands. While ungrazed islands did not necessarily possess higher total plant species richness, they did harbor significantly more small-island endemic taxa relative to presently grazed islands. This study indicates that native plant communities on Mediterranean islets are not adapted to the presence of this introduced species and that the practice of intentionally releasing rabbits on islands has significant and lasting negative ecological impacts, especially on small islands. While a complete recovery of post-rabbit was not evident over the time span of our research, both arthropod and plant data indicate that partial recovery is possible once rabbits have been removed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Skin grafting is a simple and very useful surgical technique for wound repair, especially where there is difficulty in performing direct synthesis or other reconstructive techniques. low-intensity laser (LIL) has already been used successfully in cases where the graft was applied to wounds shortly after its creation. However, LIL still lacks standardization due to conflicting studies on its results. Thus, this study compared the effectiveness of continuous wave LIL with pulsed wave LIL in stimulating the healing of skin grafts, applied to newly created wounds in rabbits. For this purpose, 31 rabbits were distributed into: control group (CG, n = 10), continuous wave laser group (GLC; n = 10) and pulsed wave laser group (GLP; n = 11). Postoperative management was similar between all groups, with the exception of laser application, as indicated by the group. The GLC and GLP groups showed similar evolution, with a satisfactory healing process of the graft, unlike the GC group. These results were maintained in the microscopic evaluation, as the groups treated with laser showed less inflammation, better integration with the receptor area, greater re-epithelialization and collagenization. There was no difference in vascular density between the treatment groups on immunohistochemical analysis. The newly created wound was not able to provide nutrition for the skin graft in rabbits, but LIL is an efficient adjuvant therapy in stimulating healing between the recipient area and the graft, promoting full integration. However; although, statistically there was no difference in the form of light emission, pulsed or continuous, patients who received continuous wave LIL showed superior microscopic evolution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To evaluate the impact of Platelet-Rich Fibrin (PRF) membrane and conjunctival autografts on α- Smooth Muscle Actin (α-SMA) and type III collagen expression following conjunctival excision in Oryctolagus cuniculus. Study Design: Experimental study with a randomized post-test only design. Place and Duration of Study: Airlangga University, Surabaya in November 2022. Methods: Twenty rabbit eyes were categorized into two groups: those sutured with PRF membrane and those sutured with conjunctival autografts after temporal conjunctival excision. The study assessed α-SMA and type III collagen expression through the Immunoreactive Score (IRS) method. Data analysis is conducted using appropriate statistical methods, such as the t-test or Mann-Whitney U test, to compare the expression of α-SMA and collagen type III between the two groups. Results: The data for each sample represented the average IRS value observed at 200x magnification. In the conjunctival autograft group, the mean IRS of α-SMA expression was 5.52 ± 0.84, significantly higher than the PRF membrane group (2.34 ± 0.34) with p < 0.05. Similarly, the conjunctival autograft group showed a higher mean IRS of type III collagen (3.87 ± 0.25) compared to the PRF membrane group (2.29 ± 0.31) (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Variations in α-SMA and type III collagen expression exist between the PRF membrane and conjunctival autograft groups in the rabbit corneal model, suggesting difference in their efficacy for conjunctival defect repair. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cryptorchidism (CO) or undescended testes is defined as the failure of one or both testes to be positioned inside the scrotum. Typically, cryptorchidism is detected at birth or shortly thereafter, and in humans, it is considered to be part of the testicular dysgenesis syndrome (TDS), a complex pathology regarding the male reproductive system that apparently involves the interaction of both genetic and environmental harmful factors, mainly during embryonic development. Serotonin (5-HT) is an ancient molecule that participates in a broad range of body functions, and in recent years, its importance in reproduction has started to be elucidated. In male pathologies such as infertility, varicocele, erectile dysfunction, and primary carcinoid tumors, an increase in 5-HT concentration or its metabolites in the blood, semen, and urine has been directly related; nevertheless, the role of 5-HT in CO remains unknown. In the present work, our goal was to answer two important questions: (1) whether some serotonergic system components are present in adult male Oryctolagus cuniculus (chinchilla rabbit) and (2) if there are changes in their expression in an experimental model of CO. Using histological, molecular, and biochemical approaches, we found the presence of some serotonergic system components in the adult chinchilla rabbit, and we demonstrated that its expression is downregulated after CO was pharmacologically induced. Although we did not test the role of 5-HT in the etiology of CO, our results suggest that this indoleamine could be important for the regulation of steroidogenesis and spermatogenesis processes in the chinchilla rabbit during adulthood. Finally, in parallel experimental series, we found downregulation of kynurenine concentration in COI rabbits when compared to control ones, suggesting that CO could be affecting the kynurenine pathway and probably testicular immune privilege which in turn could lead to infertility/sterility conditions in this disorder. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Coxiella burnetii, the causative agent of Q fever, is a multi-host zoonotic bacterium of public and animal health concern, with Spain being the European country with the highest number of Q fever cases in recent years. However, and despite that the European wild rabbit and the Iberian hare are two keystone species in the Iberian Peninsula and are considered important sources of food for humans, very little is known about the epidemiological role of these two species. To tackle this question, a cross-sectional study was carried out to determine the seroprevalence and risk factors associated with C. burnetii exposure in wild lagomorph populations of Southern Spain. Antibodies against this bacterium were found in 11.3% of 471 wild rabbits, and, for the first time, in 2.4% of 167 Iberian hares, which provides evidence of the moderate circulation of C. burnetii in wild lagomorph populations in Spanish Mediterranean ecosystems. Our results also demonstrated that wild lagomorphs from western Andalusia and those from hunting grounds in which sheep were present were at higher risk of exposure to C. burnetii. In this context, these risk factors should be prioritized in future risk-based surveillance programs for this zoonotic multi-host bacterium. Coxiella burnetii is an important zoonotic pathogen of worldwide distribution that can infect a wide range of wild and domestic species. The European wild rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus) can play a role as a reservoir for this bacterium in certain epidemiological scenarios, but, to date, a very limited numbers of large-scale serosurveys have been conducted for this species worldwide. Although exposure in hare species has also been described, C. burnetii in Iberian hare (Lepus granatensis) has never been assessed. Here, we aimed to determine the seroprevalence and risk factors associated with C. burnetii exposure in wild lagomorphs in the Mediterranean ecosystems of southern Spain. Between the 2018/2019 and 2021/2022 hunting seasons, blood samples from 638 wild lagomorphs, including 471 wild rabbits and 167 Iberian hares, were collected from 112 hunting grounds distributed across all eight provinces of Andalusia (southern Spain). The overall apparent individual seroprevalence was 8.9% (57/638; 95% CI: 6.8–11.4). Antibodies against C. burnetii were found in 11.3% (53/471; 95% CI: 8.4–14.1) of the wild rabbits and 2.4% (4/167; 95% CI: 0.1–4.7) of the Iberian hares. Seropositive animals were detected for 16 (14.3%; 95% CI: 7.8–20.8) of the 112 hunting grounds tested and in all the hunting seasons sampled. A generalized estimating equations model showed that the geographical area (western Andalusia) and presence of sheep were risk factors potentially associated with C. burnetii exposure in wild lagomorphs. A statistically significant spatial cluster (p < 0.001) was identified in the south-west of Andalusia. Our results provide evidence of moderate, endemic and heterogeneous circulation of C. burnetii in wild lagomorph populations in Spanish Mediterranean ecosystems. Risk-based strategies for integrative surveillance programs should be implemented in these species to reduce the risk of transmission of the bacterium to sympatric species, including humans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Over time, Goldner's trichrome staining has been essential in paraffin soft tissue research. However, its classic application involves prior decalcification, generating disadvantages in the integrity of the samples and the interpretation of results. This study seeks to overcome the limitations associated with decalcification when applying Goldner's trichrome stain with plastic resins. It focuses on detailed visualization of non-decalcified bone and dental samples in animal models. Samples of jaw and tooth from a dog (Canis familiaris) were used, as well as tibia from a rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus) with a titanium dental implant and bone graft substitute. Adjustments were made to the original protocol, including a surface treatment prior to staining. Plastination and inclusion in specific plastic resins were part of the process. The microplastinated and stained samples showed optimal quality for optical microscopy. Those from dogs allowed detailed observation of the tooth-periodontal tissue relationship, while those from rabbits revealed a clear differentiation between mineralized and osteoid bone tissue. The staining made it easy to examine the precise interface between soft tissues, bone graft, and implant. The successful adaptation of Goldner's trichrome stain to specimens in plastic resins represents a significant advance in histological investigation of hard tissues. This methodology stands out as an effective tool to evaluate implants and biomaterials in animal models, providing detailed visualization without compromising the integrity of the samples. The combination of histochemistry and plastic resins offers a valuable alternative for microanatomical studies, opening new possibilities in hard tissue research and evaluation of bone structures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Manual ground searches and cadaver dogs are traditional methods for locating remains, but they can be time‐ and resource‐intensive, resulting in the decomposition of bodies and delay in victim identification. Therefore, thermal imaging has been proposed as a potentially useful tool for detecting remains based on their temperature. This study investigated the potential of a novel search technique of thermal drones to detect surface remains through the detection of maggot mass temperatures. Two trials were carried out at Selangor, Malaysia, each utilizing 12 healthy male Oryctolagus cuniculus European white rabbits and DJI Matrice 300 RTK drone China, equipped with a thermal camera; Zenmuse H20T to record the thermal imaging footage of the carcasses at various heights (15, 30, 60–100 m) for 14 days for each trial. Our results demonstrated that the larval masses and corresponding heat emissions were at their largest during the active decay stage; therefore, all the carcasses were observable in thermal images on day 5 and remained until day 7. Statistical analyses showed that (1) no statistically significant differences in thermal images between clothed and unclothed subjects (p > 0.05); (2) 15 m above ground level was proven to be the optimal height, as it showed the greatest contrast between the carcass heat signature and the background (p < 0.005). Our data suggested the potential window of detection of thermal signatures was detectable up to 7 days post‐deposition. This could be an important guideline for the search and recovery teams for operational implementation in this tropical region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Rabbits are extremely sensitive to pain. There is evidence on whether non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory medication should be administered before or after surgery in rabbits. Objectives: In this study, we compared the pain scores and behaviours of rabbits administered meloxicam before or after routine castration. Methods: Forty‐two healthy rabbits undergoing castration were randomly assigned to receive meloxicam (1 mg/kg SC) 1 h before or upon recovery from anaesthesia. Several parameters were recorded, including the occurrence of eating, defecating and pain scores postoperatively and change in heart rate intraoperatively. Results: At 4 h after surgery, eating was observed in 43% (9/21) of rabbits that received meloxicam before neutering and in 29% (6/21) of rabbits that received meloxicam after. The morning after the surgery, eating was observed in 62% (13/21) of rabbits that received meloxicam before neutering and in 57% (12/21) of rabbits that received meloxicam after. The odds of not eating increased by 1.16 times (1.03–1.29; p = 0.01) per month of age, whereas there was no significant association between eating and administration of meloxicam before or after surgery, body weight and time. Similarly, defecation, pain score and change in heart rate did not differ in animals receiving meloxicam before or after surgery. Conclusions: Administration of meloxicam in rabbits undergoing castration before or after surgery does not have a relevant effect on eating, defecating or pain score. Younger rabbits show less obvious signs of pain and are more likely to resume eating habits sooner after surgery compared to older rabbits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVE To evaluate selected gastrointestinal side effects of high-concentration buprenorphine (HCB) in healthy rabbits. ANIMALS 10 healthy New Zealand White rabbits ranging in body weight between 3.0 and 3.8 kg. METHODS Eight, 6-month-old, New Zealand White rabbits received a single injection of HCB SC (0.24 mg/kg). The rabbits were previously randomized to receive SC and oral saline as a control. Two rabbits received saline for the purpose of blinding the outcome assessors. Food and water consumption, fecal and urine production, and fecal pellet number were recorded for all rabbits before HCB administration and the 3 days postinjection. RESULTS A clinically and statistically significant decrease in food and water consumption was observed in rabbits receiving an injection of HCB, compared to rabbits receiving saline. In the 24 hours after injection, HCB-treated rabbits consumed a median of 17 g of food (range, 0 to 82 g), while saline-treated rabbits consumed 122 g of food (31 to 181 g). Rabbits receiving HCB injections also produced significantly less feces both in terms of pellet numbers and overall quantity, along with decreased urine production. CLINICAL RELEVANCE A single administration of HCB has a clinically significant impact on multiple physiological functions in healthy rabbits. Administration of this drug could potentially worsen clinical signs of anorexia and decrease defecation in healthy rabbits. The effects of HCB on diseased or painful rabbits are not yet known. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Several conventional and recently available tools are available for an integrated control of European rabbits in Australia. We quantified the impact of the release of rabbit haemorrhagic disease virus K5 (RHDV K5, hereafter K5) and pindone (2‐pivalyl‐1,3‐indandione) baiting at 13 sites within Cudlee Creek fire scar in the Adelaide Hills, South Australia. K5 release was followed by pindone baiting between December 2021 and March 2022; the application of both control methods followed industry best practice. We counted rabbits using spotlights before and after the application of both control methods. Fly samples and livers from dead rabbits were collected to track K5 transmission within and between sites, and to detect the natural circulation of rabbit haemorrhagic disease virus 2 (RHDV2). K5 release had minimal impact on rabbit populations, with treated populations increasing by a mean of 65.5% at 14 days post‐release and 27.9% at 77 days post‐K5 release across all sites, comparable to the changes at control sites. K5 detection in flies up to 77 days post its release, and its detection in rabbit livers, demonstrates that it can survive and transmit in the environment for prolonged periods and that it can lethally infect some rabbits. This limited impact of K5 is consistent with previous studies and may be explained by pre‐existing RHDV/RHDV2 immunity in the target populations or the presence of young rabbits with natural innate RHDV immunity. The detection of K5 in flies from control sites demonstrates that it was vectored beyond its release location. A reduction in rabbit counts post‐pindone baiting was observed at most treatment sites, with a mean population reduction of 36.6% across all sites. Landholders need to carefully and strategically plan their integrated rabbit control programmes. Not all combinations of controls, even if theoretically logical, achieve meaningful outcomes for rabbit management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pathogenic lagoviruses (Rabbit hemorrhagic disease virus, RHDV) are widely spread across the world and are used in Australia and New Zealand to control populations of feral European rabbits. The spread of the non-pathogenic lagoviruses, e.g., rabbit calicivirus (RCV), is less well studied as the infection results in no clinical signs. Nonetheless, RCV has important implications for the spread of RHDV and rabbit biocontrol as it can provide varying levels of cross-protection against fatal infection with pathogenic lagoviruses. In Chile, where European rabbits are also an introduced species, myxoma virus was used for localised biocontrol of rabbits in the 1950s. To date, there have been no studies investigating the presence of lagoviruses in the Chilean feral rabbit population. In this study, liver and duodenum rabbit samples from central Chile were tested for the presence of lagoviruses and positive samples were subject to whole RNA sequencing and subsequent data analysis. Phylogenetic analysis revealed a novel RCV variant in duodenal samples that likely originated from European RCVs. Sequencing analysis also detected the presence of a rabbit astrovirus in one of the lagovirus-positive samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Myxoma virus (MYXV) is a Leporipoxvirus (genus) belonging to the family Poxviridae; it is characterised by a genome of approximately 161 kb dsDNA encoding for several proteins that play an essential role in both host spectrum determination and immunomodulation. The healthy reservoir of the virus is Sylvilagus spp. At the same time, in wild and domestic European rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus), MYXV is the etiologic agent of myxomatosis, a disease with an extremely high mortality rate. In 2014, an interspecies jump of MYXV was reported in Lepus europaeus in the UK. In 2018, myxomatosis induced by a new recombinant strain called MYXV-To was identified during a large outbreak in Iberian hares (Lepus granatensis) in Spain. Here, we describe the case of myxomatosis in another hare species: an adult male Italian hare (Lepus corsicanus) found dead in 2018 in Sicily with lesions suggestive of myxomatosis and treponema infection. Laboratory tests, e.g., end-point PCR and negative staining electron microscopy, confirmed the presence of both pathogens. MYXV was then isolated from tissue samples in permissive cells and sequenced using NGS technology. Main genomic differences concerning known MYXV strains are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Carbonated Hydroxyapatite (CHA) is used as a bone graft material in the treatment of periodontitis in dentistry. Carbonated Hydroxyapatite has high biocompatibility, osteoconductive, and as a drug carrier. Propolic is a resinous material from bees that has antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and accelerates wound healing. The incorporation of CHA with propolic is expected to accelerate alveolar bone regeneration better by increasing the expression of Transforming Growth Factor ß1 in the treatment of periodontitis. This study's aim was to examine the effect of CHA-Propolic 10% application on open flap debridement (OFD) and TGF-ß1 expression. Methods: This study use 24 sample from six male rabbits. The fourth tissue slices periodontitis from each treatment group was taken from the mandibular incisors of the rabbit Oryctolagus Cuniculus that had been induced by ligation and injected with LPS of Propyromonas gingivalis bacteria. Periodontitis conditions in rabbits were obtained after 2 weeks of induction of periodontitis then the rabbits were treated and divided into 3 groups, group I only OFD action, group II OFD action added CHA application, and group III OFD action added 10% Propolic-CHA application. Decapitation was done on the 7th day and 4th day. The data were analyzed using the Shapiro-Wilk test, Anava two paths test, and continued with the Least Significant Difference (LSD) test. Results: The results showed CHA incorporated with a 10% propolic group had a significant difference compared to other treatment groups (p<0,05). Conclusion: The conclusion obtained from this study was that the application CHA incorporated with a 10% propolic group shows the ability to increase the expression of TGF-ß1 alveolar bone of rabbits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To evaluate the major crossmatch compatibility between rabbit recipients, rabbit donors, and the major canine and feline blood types. Design: Prospective in vitro study in December 2021. Setting: Academic veterinary teaching hospital. Animals: Whole blood samples were collected from 11 healthy New Zealand White rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus) with no previous transfusion history. Three pigtail segments were acquired from dog erythrocyte antigen (DEA)‐1‐positive, DEA‐1‐negative, and feline type A blood units. Whole blood was collected from a healthy type B blood donor cat. Interventions: Blood from each rabbit recipient underwent a major crossmatch using standard tube crossmatch methodology with itself and the following donor blood types: rabbit, DEA‐1‐positive, DEA‐1‐negative, feline type A, and feline type B. Measurements and Main Results: Self‐crossmatches and crossmatches between rabbit recipients and conspecific donors were negative for hemolysis and agglutination. Crossmatches between rabbit recipients and canine and feline donors yielded no hemolysis but produced varying degrees of macroscopic and microscopic agglutination. Rabbit recipients had 1.4 (95% confidence interval: 1.1–1.8) times the risk of macroscopic agglutination when major crossmatched with canine blood compared to feline blood. No significant difference in agglutination was found between DEA‐1‐positive and DEA‐1‐negative or feline type A and type B donors. Conclusions: These findings support allogeneic blood transfusions between rabbits being highly compatible and suggest rabbits have naturally occurring alloantibodies against both canine and feline red blood cells. However, feline red blood cells had a lower rate of in vitro incompatibility on major crossmatch, suggesting potentially higher in vivo compatibility if an emergency xenotransfusion is needed. Further prospective research is needed to determine if xenotransfusion is associated with a higher incidence of acute and delayed transfusion reactions in rabbits than allogeneic transfusions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As technology has developed in recent years, the use of three‐dimensional (3D) scanners and printers has become widespread in the medical field. However, since this field is new, all kinds of methodological and experimental related studies gain importance. This study aimed to identify the differences between the calliper measurements by determining the craniometric data on the models constructed by scanning the crania of New Zealand Rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus L.), preferred as experimental animals, with a three‐dimensional scanner. Therefore, a total of 12 New Zealand rabbits including 6 females and 6 males were used. After the crania that comprised the study material were macerated, they were subjected to 3D scanning. After the scanning process was completed, they were craniometrically measured both on the scanned models and by using a digital calliper. Analysis of the craniometric data of the 3D scanner showed that there was a difference between sexes at the level of p < 0.05 in widest length between the external acoustic meatus (WLBEAM), skull width and Foramen magnum height (FMH) parameters and cranial index data, and at the level of p < 0.001 in the largest nasal width (LNW) parameter. A statistical difference was found between sexes in frontal length, WLBEAM, LNW and FMH parameters and cranial index values in craniometric data collected with the digital calliper (p < 0.05). Consequently, the data collected in this study were found to be close to each other in both methods, suggesting that the 3D scanner may be used in morphometric studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Diet and endogenous vitamin D synthesis are possible sources of vitamin D in wild rabbits. Higher 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) concentrations have been reported in rabbits after artificial UVB light exposure than in rabbits without this exposure, suggesting that endogenous vitamin D synthesis occurs in the former group. In Finnish pet rabbits, diet was reported as main source of vitamin D, while outdoor access was not. Finland's northern location only enables endogenous synthesis from mid-March to mid-October in people with light skin type. Living conditions during winter are challenging for Finnish wild rabbits. This study aimed to measure serum 25(OH)D concentrations and possible natural seasonal variation of vitamin D concentrations in Finnish wild rabbits. Results: Post-mortem blood samples (n = 78) were collected between 2013 and 2021 from wild rabbits hunted for reduction of the wild rabbit population. Separated sera were stored at − 80 °C until 25(OH)D concentrations were measured by enzyme immunoassay. Data regarding sex were available from 50 rabbits, 29 (58%) of which were females. Mean 25(OH)D concentration was 3.3 (range 0.3–7.1) ng/ml. 25(OH)D concentration was statistically similar between season (autumn, winter, summer), month or year of sample collection, and sex. Conclusions: Wild rabbits living in Finland have very low serum 25(OH)D concentrations. This is far below the previously suggested threshold of vitamin D deficiency in rabbits (17 ng/mL) or the mean 25(OH)D concentration reported in Finnish pet rabbits (26.0 ng/mL). Seasonal variation was not observed in 25(OH)D concentrations between winter and summer months. Even though rabbits are crepuscular animals and may spend the mid-day in underground burrows, the very low observed 25(OH)D concentrations raise doubt about whether vitamin D synthesis occurs efficiently in the skin of rabbits and whether the diet of wild rabbits provides adequate amounts of vitamin D. Cutaneous vitamin D synthesis, possible long-term consequences of low 25(OH)D concentrations, and the association of low vitamin D status with other health disorders warrant further investigations in rabbits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Neospora caninum (N. caninum) has a broad intermediate host range and might cause multisystemic lesions in various species of animals. Dogs are both intermediate and definitive hosts of the parasite and play a crucial role in the horizontal transmission of this protozoan to other animals. Cats and rabbits could be sensitive to infection with N. caninum, however, clinical symptoms and the exact route of infection in these species are unknown. The epidemiology of N. caninum in cats and rabbits has been barely researched, and there is no published record of the seroprevalence of N. caninum infection in these species in Poland. Thus, the present study aimed to determine the frequency of seroreagents for N. caninum within pet dogs, cats and rabbits from urban areas of Poland and to identify possible risk factors for these animals. Results: In total, serum samples from 184 cats (Felis catus), 203 dogs (Canis familiaris) and 70 rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus) were used in the study. The seroprevalence of anti-N. caninum antibodies in dogs and cats reached 1.0% (2/203; 95% CI: 0.3–3.5) and 3.3% (6/184; 95% CI: 1.5–6.9), respectively. No significant differences in seroprevalence regarding age group, gender, symptoms or sampling location were found. All 70 samples from pet rabbits were negative for anti-N. caninum antibodies. Conclusions: The seroprevalence rates of N. caninum in dogs and cats in the present study were low, however, our results confirmed N. caninum circulates among dog and cat populations in Poland, and neosporosis should be included in the differential diagnosis of neuro-muscular disorders in these species. This is the first serological survey of N. caninum in European pet cats and rabbits. The role of pet rabbits in N. caninum epidemiology and circulation in Poland is marginal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hindgut fermenting herbivores from different vertebrate taxa, including tortoises, and among mammals some afrotheria, perissodactyla incl. equids, several rodents as well as lagomorphs absorb more calcium (Ca) from the digesta than they require, and excrete the surplus via urine. Both proximate and ultimate causes are elusive. It was suggested that this mechanism might ensure phosphorus availability for the hindgut microbiome by removing potentially complex‐building Ca from the digesta. Here we use Ussing chamber experiments to show that rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus) maintained on four different diets (six animals/diet) increase active Ca absorption at increasing Ca levels. This contradicts the common assumption that at higher dietary levels, where passive uptake should be more prevalent, active transport can relax and hence supports the deliberate removal hypothesis. In the rabbits, this absorption was distinctively higher in the caecum than in the duodenum, which is unexpected in mammals. Additional quantification of the presence of two proteins involved in active Ca absorption (calbindin‐D9K CB; vitamin D receptor, VDR) showed higher presence with higher dietary Ca. However, their detailed distribution across the intestinal tract and the diet groups suggests that other factors not investigated in this study must play major roles in Ca absorption in rabbits. Investigating strategies of herbivores to mitigate potential negative effects of Ca in the digesta on microbial activity and growth might represent a promising area of future research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A 7‐year‐old intact Netherlands Dwarf rabbit with bloody discharge from the vulva underwent ovariohysterectomy. Grossly, both sides of the uterus were enlarged. Histologically, the tumour had formed protruded from the myometrial wall toward the serosa and was composed of irregular small capillaries with irregularly shaped structures and bundled proliferation of spindle‐shaped cells. No tumour cells infiltrated the endometrium. The tumour cells were positive for CD31, and histological and immunohistochemical staining confirmed the diagnosis of haemangiosarcoma. Vascular tumours in the uterus of animals are uncommon, and only one case has been reported in the uterus of rabbits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To determine intraocular pressure (IOP) and tear production, as well as to compare the IOP obtained with the TonoVet Plus® (rebound) with the Tono‐Pen Avia® (applanation) tonometers. Animals: Twenty‐five Mini Lionhead rabbits (n = 50 eyes). Procedure: Tear production was measured at 6:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. by using the STT. The IOP reading was performed with the rebound tonometer, followed by the applanation tonometer, at 6:00 a.m., 9:00 a.m., 12:00 p.m., 3:00 p.m., and 6:00 p.m. Regression analysis, analysis of variance (anova) and Bland–Altman statistics were used. Results: Daily tear production was 10.25 ± 3.75 mm/min, with no differences among the moments evaluated. Average daily IOP was 17.7 ± 3.08 mmHg with the TonoVet Plus® and 11.5 ± 4.56 mmHg with the Tono‐Pen Avia®. IOP values were higher at the beginning and end of the day with both tonometers. Conclusion: The IOP values are higher with the TonoVet Plus® tonometer. The reference values of IOP and tear production obtained in this work may support the diagnosis, treatment, and monitoring of ocular disorders in pet Mini Lionhead rabbits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The pesticide’s broad-spectrum nature raises concerns about its impact on biodiversity, potentially disrupting delicate ecological balances and endangering various species across different trophic levels. Deltamethrin, a widely used synthetic pyrethroid, poses significant risks to both the environment and animals. Its persistence in soil and water can lead to the contamination of ecosystems, affecting non-target insects, aquatic life, and birds. Methods: This study aims to detect the impact of deltamethrin on the testicular tissues of white rabbits treated by 0.1 and 0.3 mg/kg/day for 30 days. Thirty rabbits were divided into three groups equally. The first group was the control group and was administered distilled water, while the second group experimental groups 1 and 2 received deltamethrin at a concentration of 0.1 and 0.3 mg/kg/day respectively. Tissue sections were prepared, stained and tested via a light microscope equipped with a camera. Result: The results obtained revealed that all groups of animals treated with deltamethrin experienced disintegration in the germinal cell layer, detachment of the germinal epithelium from the basal membrane, and slight distortion in spermatozoa. The damage was more severe with increasing the concentration, Moreover, there was an increase in the contraction of some seminiferous tubules, resulting in their irregular and wavy appearance, and many cellular changes were observed, in addition to absence of spermatozoa in some seminiferous tubule lumina and Leydig cell hyperplasia. Conclusion: The treatment with deltamethrin at different doses for one month caused severe pathological tissue damage in the testes, characterized by congestion, hemorrhage, vacuolation, and detachment of a portion of the germinal epithelium from the basement membrane. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The epidemiology of parasitic infections is common in rabbit flocks and poses a significant threat to public health. And the most famous and influential of these causes are coccidia parasites, Coccidiosis in rabbits is an infection caused by intracellular protozoan parasites belonging to Eimeria, which is considered a major cause of significant morbidity and mortality. Methods: A total of 210 fresh feces samples of adult domestic rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus) were collected from Riyadh City, Al Kharj and ADilam in Saudi Arabia to examine the incidence of the Eimeria infection of microscopically. Feces concentrated by the floatation technique. After that, freshly collected non-sporulated oocysts were suspended in 2.5% (W/V) potassium dichromate, placed in Petri dishes in the air, and allowed to sporulate at room temperature (25±3&#8451,). The morphometric and specific characteristics of sporulated oocysts were studied by an Olympus microscope (BX51ggTF, OLYMPUS, Tokyo, Japan) using the oil immersion lens. Specimens were taken from all parts intestine and liver, and the tissues were kept in 10% formalin immediately and make tissue sections and that to study the histopathological change under light microscopic. Result: An investigation was conducted in three cities in the Riyadh area (Riyadh, Al Kharj and Adilam) to determine the incidence of Eimeria species that parasitize local rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus). The overall frequency of these coccidial illnesses in rabbits in Riyadh City was 45.7%, in Adilam City it was 44.2% and in Al Kharj City it was 37.1%, respectively. There were five different species of Eimeria: E. magna, E. flavescens, E. exigua, E. striedae and E. coecicola, respectively. More than one species of Eimeria oocyst was obtained in the same examined sample. Single-infection 13/90 (14.4%), dual-infection 39/90 (43.3%) and triple-infection 38/90 (42.2%). E. magna; E. flavescens; E. exigua; E. stiedae and E. coecicola, respectively. Significant differences (p<0.05) in prevalence were observed between the rabbits. Eimeria infection that affects the liver was confirmed by histopathological changes that were noted through the development of parasitic stages in the jejunum, ileum, cecum, end cecum and liver. It is possible to conclude that the current research offers pertinent information that aids in determining potential infection and future preventative measures against rabbit coccidiosis to lessen financial losses in the rabbit industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the present research is to investigate breeders' management strategies and their effects on reproductive performances in heritage breeds. A total of 468 litters were analysed: Belgian Hare (N = 151), Burgundy Fawn (N = 105), Californian (N = 212). Litter size (born alive), percentage of weaned kits and percentage of selected kits were analysed using a model that included the effects of breed, year of birth, litter's origin (with three levels: both internal parents = 0, one outside parent = 1 both outside parents = 2) and their interactions (breed*year of birth, breed*litter's origin, year of birth*litter's origin, breed*year of birth*litter's origin). Besides, number of litters per buck and number of litters per doe were analysed using a model with only effect of breed. All these analyses were carried out with SPSS software. No effects of breeds on litter size, percentage of weaned and percentage of selected kits were found. Year of birth presented significant effects on litter size and percentage of weaned kits (p ≤ 0.05). The inclusion of external breeders didn't significantly influence analysed reproductive data. The number of litters per buck and per doe were not influenced by breed. The frequency of external breeders' inclusion is breed specific. Data recording is a basic step in phenotypical characterization, our results supply some information about breeders' management strategies and their effects on some reproductive parameters. Our results show breed specific frequencies of inclusions of external breeders and a positive effect of management procedures (genetic plus environment) on percentage of weaned kits according to the year of birth. Breeders management and reproductive parameters have been described The most frequent combination is a home bred doe mated to an external male A mean of 2 litters per doe and per buck have calculated in all the breeds The frequency of use of external breeders is breed specific [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite the staggering economic and ecological impacts of invasive animals, maps of their distribution are often only broad generalisations. Detailed knowledge about the spatial distribution of pest animals is crucial to efficiently reduce their numbers in open landscapes where no conservation fencing, or natural boundaries exist.Our case study tests a random but spatially balanced transect design to collect data on the distribution of the European rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus), a major destructive pest species in Australian ecosystems, and create distribution maps in relation to abiotic and biotic features. We surveyed an area of 650 km2 in the semi‐arid Flinders Ranges of South Australia using 95 transects (1.4 km length by 50 m width), that were placed with a method originally developed for surveying the ocean‐floor and applied for the first time in terrestrial ecosystems.According to a hurdle model fitted to our data set, the presence of rabbit warrens is influenced by geology, vegetation cover and the topographic wetness index, whereas the number of holes per warren depends on the ruggedness of the terrain, the vegetation cover and whether it has previously been destroyed.The model predicted the numbers of rabbit holes with up to 96.4% accuracy and at a previously unavailable resolution, providing a significant improvement in detail of the distribution of this feral animal.Synthesis and applications: A reliable, high‐resolution map of the distribution of rabbit densities was generated with surveying of less than 1% of the study area, information that can now be used to direct targeted conservation management efforts. This method is highly accurate and can still be improved in future studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nutritional ecology seeks to unravel the extensive web of nutritional links that directs animals in their interactions with their ecological and social environments. European rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus) populations its endemic locations are declining and it is considered a keystone species of the Mediterranean ecosystem prompteing the interest in its conservation. The main aim of this study was to determine the nutritional composition of the diet of European rabbits through the relative and absolute chemical composition of the gastric content. To address this objective, gastric content was collected from 80 European rabbits in a Mediterranean area for the analysis of its chemical composition. To this end, gastric content was analyzed for dry matter (DM), organic matter (OM), ash, crude protein (CP), highly digestible nonnitrogenous nutrients (HDNN), neutral detergent fibre (NDF), acid detergent fibre (ADF) and lignin. The rabbits were divided into two groups: EMPTY and FULL, depending on the level of stomach filling, directly related to food intake. Our results revealed a positive correlation between the rabbits weight with DM in the gastric content, total gastric content with DM in the gastric content, and DM in gastric content with all chemical parameters analysed. The mean relative values obtained were 8.8%, 25.5%, 40.4% and 25.4%, for ash, CP, NDF and HDNN, respectively. Moreover, EMPTY rabbits had both a proportional (+19%, p = 0.002 and –40%; p = 0.004, on NDF and HDNN, respectively) and absolute (−38%, p = 0.014, –52%; p = 0.012, −52%; p = 0.011 and +83%; p = 0.008 for OM, ash, HDNN, and lignin, respectively) different proportion of nutrients in gastric contents than FULL animals. Since there is a connection between this availability and the fitness of this species, understanding the chemical composition of the rabbit's diet can be utilised to delve into its biology. Our study provides information that will help elucidate the factors affecting the chemical composition of the gastric content of European rabbits to assist land use planners and conservationists in identifying sites for conservation in Mediterranean ecosystems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Following the recent domestication process of the European rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus), many different breeds and lines, distinguished primarily by exterior traits such as coat colour, fur structure and body size and shape, have been constituted. In this study, we genotyped, with a high‐density single‐nucleotide polymorphism panel, a total of 645 rabbits from 10 fancy breeds (Belgian Hare, Champagne d'Argent, Checkered Giant, Coloured Dwarf, Dwarf Lop, Ermine, Giant Grey, Giant White, Rex and Rhinelander) and three meat breeds (Italian White, Italian Spotted and Italian Silver). ADMIXTURE analysis indicated that breeds with similar phenotypic traits (e.g. coat colour and body size) shared common ancestries. Signatures of selection using two haplotype‐based approaches (iHS and XP‐EHH), combined with the results obtained with other methods previously reported that we applied to the same breeds, we identified a total of 5079 independent genomic regions with some signatures of selection, covering about 1777 Mb of the rabbit genome. These regions consistently encompassed many genes involved in pigmentation processes (ASIP, EDNRA, EDNRB, KIT, KITLG, MITF, OCA2, TYR and TYRP1), coat structure (LIPH) and body size, including two major genes (LCORL and HMGA2) among many others. This study revealed novel genomic regions under signatures of selection and further demonstrated that population structures and signatures of selection, left into the genome of these rabbit breeds, may contribute to understanding the genetic events that led to their constitution and the complex genetic mechanisms determining the broad phenotypic variability present in these untapped rabbit genetic resources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mastitis is a common condition in rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus) does, especially in rabbitries where mammae inflammations are the leading pathological expression of Staphylococcus aureus infections in reproductive females. It affects both the litter and the lactating female, including subsequent lactations. Non‐septic (i.e. galactostasis and cystic mastitis) and septic (i.e. Mastitis acuta; including Mastitis gangrenosa; and Mastitis chronica) mammary inflammations are acknowledged; however, the literature is scarce regarding non‐septic inflammations or subclinical mastitis. Thus, the present systematic review highlights and summarizes the existing data concerning mastitis in rabbit does, including diagnosis and treatment plans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVE: To characterize the epidemiologic features of rabbits with retrobulbar abscesses, including the clinical signs, diagnosis, treatment, and outcome. ANIMALS: 21 client-owned rabbits. METHODS: The medical record database of a veterinary teaching hospital was searched from 2011 to 2022 for records of rabbits diagnosed with retrobulbar abscesses by CT. Data reviewed included age, breed, presenting complaint, association with an odontogenic infection, aerobic and anaerobic culture results, treatment, and outcome. RESULTS: The primary presenting complaint was exophthalmos (19/21 [90%]). Most cases (15/21 [71%]) were associated with an odontogenic infection. Dental disease, not associated with a retrobulbar abscess (14/21 [67%]), was a common comorbidity on CT. The most common aerobic and anaerobic isolates were Streptococcus intermedius (5/12 [42%]) and Fusobacterium nucleatum (2/12 [17%]), respectively. Surgical treatment combined with long-term systemic antibiotic therapy was performed in 9 of 21 (43%) cases. It included intraoral tooth extraction (4/9 [44%]) versus extraoral peribulbar abscess lancing with either abscess packing with antibiotic-soaked gauze (3/9 [33%]) or surgical abscess debridement (2/9 [22%]). Resolution of the clinical signs with no recurrence for at least 6 months occurred in 7 of 9 (78%) surgically treated cases. Medical treatment with long-term systemic antibiotic therapy was performed in 4 of 21 (19%) cases, and 3 of 4 (75%) resolved. Due to poor prognosis or financial concerns, euthanasia was performed or recommended in 8 of 21 (38%) cases. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: On the basis of the data from this study, retrobulbar abscesses in rabbits carry a guarded prognosis. When intraoral and extraoral surgical treatment options combined with systemic antibiotic therapy were used, it resolved clinical disease in most cases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Egyptian mongoose (Herpestes ichneumon) is considered a generalist and opportunistic predator whose European distribution is restricted to Iberia. However, all the previous studies on the Egyptian mongoose's diet in the Iberian Peninsula have been performed in Portugal and Doñana National Park (southwestern Spain), covering a small region of the species' current distribution. To improve the knowledge on the trophic ecology of the species, we estimated the feeding habits of the Egyptian mongoose in central Spain, its north-eastern range edge. Our study was based on the analysis of (1) scats (n = 251) and (2) stomach contents (n = 32); samples were collected between 2018 and 2022. We calculated the relative frequency of occurrence (%RFO) and the percentage consumed biomass (%CB) for 12 food groups across central Spain and we assessed site-seasonal variations in diet composition in three study areas. We also estimated rabbit densities in the three study areas to assess the effect of rabbit abundance on mongoose diets. Overall, our results showed that European rabbits were the group with highest %CB (30.7%) in the diet of the Egyptian mongoose, followed by reptiles (19.9%) and small mammals (19.9%). In the intensively studied areas, the %CB of rabbits was the highest in the area with the highest abundance of this prey, whereas reptiles had the highest %CB in the area with the lowest availability of rabbits. Diet diversity (Shannon index) varied between 1.73 and 2.47 in those areas and was inversely related to the availability of rabbits. Our results confirm the dietary flexibility of this predator that adapts its diet to the relative availability of different prey species in different habitats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite the wide range of uses of rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus) as experimental models for pain, as well as their increasing popularity as pets, pain assessment in rabbits is understudied. This study is the first to address automated detection of acute postoperative pain in rabbits. Using a dataset of video footage of n = 28 rabbits before (no pain) and after surgery (pain), we present an AI model for pain recognition using both the facial area and the body posture and reaching accuracy of above 87%. We apply a combination of 1 sec interval sampling with the Grayscale Short-Term stacking (GrayST) to incorporate temporal information for video classification at frame level and a frame selection technique to better exploit the availability of video data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ecological interest in the European rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus) has grown since it was declared an endangered species. Nutrition is fundamental in its dispersion and the key to its success. This is the main reason why knowledge of their nutritional preferences/requirements could play a fundamental role in rabbit biology and, therefore, in their conservation. The objectives of the work will be to elucidate how age and sex affect both nutritional preferences/requirements, and the nutrient optimisation of European rabbits. To address this gap, 70 wild European rabbits were studied. The rabbits were divided according to their age: adult (n = 43) and young (n = 27). Two groups were differentiated according to the adult rabbits' sex: females (n = 28) and males (n = 15). We analysed the relative (%) and absolute (g) chemical composition of the rabbits' gastric contents: dry matter (DM), ashes (ASH), crude protein (CP), ether extract (EE), neutral detergent fibre (NDF), acid detergent fibre (ADF), and lignin, hemicelluloses and celluloses, highly digestible nonnitrogenous nutrients (HDNN: fat, starch, and soluble fibre), well from the blood was analysed with plasmatic urea nitrogen (PUN), nonesterified fatty acid (NEFA) and glucose (GLU). As a nutrient optimisation measure, the following indices between blood metabolites and stomach content were calculated: PUN/CP total content, NEFA/DM total content and GLU/DM total content ratios. Our works showed that age and sex affected the nutritional strategy of rabbits. Regarding age: adults showed lower CP (−14%; p = 0.0217) and higher HDNN (+21%; p = 0.0399) relative content than young rabbits, and absolute amount of most nutrients: DM (+59%; p = 0.001), OM (+43%; p = 0.0049), ASH (+54%; p = 0.0085), Hemicelluloses (+73%; p = 0.0084), Cellulose (+27%; p = 0.0452), and HDNN (+63%; p = 0.0012). In addition, adults showed better nutrient optimisation. Sex did not affect the relative chemical composition of the gastric content, but it showed a clear higher gastric content by females (+85%; p < 0.0001) and higher intake of most of the absolute chemical components: DM (+64%; p < 0.001), CP (+56%; p = 0.0005), OM (+58%; p = 0.0001), ASH (+44%; p = 0.0123), HDNN (+39%; p = 0.001), NDF (+59%; p = 0.001), ADF (+64%; p = 0.0003), lignin (+82%; p = 0.0036) and cellulose (+58%; p = 0.0002). Finally, we observed that females had better nutrient optimisation than males. This works supports the idea that feeding ecology and nutrition are particularly relevant to reproductive success and fitness in wild animals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rabbit haemorrhagic disease virus (RHDV) is established as a landscape-scale biocontrol that assists the management of invasive European rabbits and their impacts in both Australia and New Zealand. In addition to this, it is also available to land managers to augment rabbit control efforts at a local scale. However, current methods of deploying RHDV to rabbits that rely on the consumption of virus-treated baits can be problematic as rabbits are reluctant to consume bait when there is abundant, green, protein-rich feed available. We ran a suite of interrupted time-series experiments to compare the duration of infectivity of two conventional (carrot and oat baits) and two novel (meat bait and soil burrow spray) methods of deploying RHDV to rabbits. All methods effectively killed exposed rabbits. Soil burrow spray and carrot baits resulted in infection and mortality out to 5 days post their deployment in the field, and meat baits caused infection out to 10 days post their deployment. In contrast, oat baits continued to infect and kill exposed rabbits out to 20 days post deployment. Molecular assays demonstrated high viral loads in deployed baits beyond the duration for which they were infectious or lethal to rabbits. Based on our results, we suggest that the drying of meat baits may create a barrier to effective transmission of RHDV by adult flies within 10 days. We therefore hypothesise that fly larvae production and development on infected tissues is critical to prolonged viral transmission from meat baits, and similarly from carcasses of RHDV mortalities, via mechanical fly vectors. Our study demonstrates that meat baits and soil spray could provide additional virus deployment options that remove the need for rabbits to consume baits at times when they are reluctant to do so. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Levofloxacin veterinary formulations are available in Argentina, China and India for the use in dogs, cattle, pig and sheep, but not currently in the rabbit. Only the extra‐label use in rabbits is possible. Levofloxacin is not labelled for veterinary use in the EU or the USA. The activity of levofloxacin against rabbit pathogens Pasteurella multocida (P. multocida) and Escherichia coli (E. coli) was evaluated. Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimal bactericidal concentration (MBC) were determined in broth and serum for 10 P. multocida isolates and 5 E. coli isolates from rabbits. One isolate of each bacterial species was used for the time‐killing curve study in vitro and ex vivo. In vitro AUC24/MIC ratios were used for building the inhibitory pharmacodynamic Imax model. The P. multocida MIC were 0.008–0.5 μg/mL, MBC – 0.015–0.5 μg/mL. Escherichia coli MIC was 0.008–0.03 μg/mL and MBC – 0.03–0.25 μg/mL. Bacterial counts were reduced to the limit of detection after 24 h with levofloxacin concentrations of 2 MIC and higher. All serum samples from rabbits treated with levofloxacin eliminated the bacteria within 24 h. AUC24/MIC ratios for bacteriostatic, bactericidal and bacterial elimination effects for P. multocida and E. coli isolates were 21, 29 and 75 h and 27, 32 and 60 h, respectively. Proposed daily doses against P. multocida (MIC = 0.015 μg/mL) and E. coli (MIC = 0.03 μg/mL) isolates were calculated as ≤0.91 and ≤1.43 mg/kg, respectively. Fluoroquinolones are categorized by WHO as 'highest priority critically important antimicrobials'. Considering the increasing importance of antimicrobial stewardship, antimicrobials from a lower importance category that are active against the isolate of interest should be used in preference to fluoroquinolones. Fluoroquinolone use in veterinary medicine should be based on antimicrobial susceptibility testing in order to mitigate the risk to public health and prevent the spread of bacterial resistance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study aimed to define the anatomical structures by comparing the transversal computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance (MR) images of the forelimb joints of the rabbits with the cross‐sectional plastinated images. A total of 14 (seven females, seven males) one‐year‐old adult New Zealand rabbits were used in the study. After the CT and MR imaging procedures were completed, the forelimbs were removed from the body. The forelimbs were plastinated using the silicone plastination method and sectioned transversal. Cross‐sectional plastinates were evaluated and correlated anatomically with conjugate CT and MR images. Joint and surrounding anatomical structures were defined in sections. Cross‐sectional plastinated samples were highly correlated with CT and MR images in terms of bone and soft tissue, respectively. It is thought that the anatomical and radiological data obtained from the forelimb joints of rabbits will provide a basis for scientists who are involved in both experimental surgical interventions and clinical anatomy education. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The popularity of rabbits as pets has grown substantially in the UK. However, despite progress, this species still has a much higher anesthesia-related mortality than dogs and cats. Rabbits are prey animals that tend to hide signs of pain, which makes it particularly difficult to assess and to treat it adequately. Perioperative systemic opioid administration is a cofactor in the high perioperative mortality and morbidity rates recorded in rabbits. To reduce post-surgical opioid requirements, a multimodal analgesia regimen is advisable. In such a context, loco-regional anesthesia has gained a central role in daily anesthesia practice as it effectively and significantly reduces the doses of perioperative systemic analgesic drug requirements. The quadratus lumborum block (QLB) is an ultrasound-guided loco-regional anesthesia technique developed in human medicine consisting of the injection of local anesthetic within the quadratus lumborum (QL) fascia that provides analgesia to the abdominal wall and viscera by blocking the ventral branches of the thoraco-lumbar spinal nerves and sympathetic trunk. The efficacy of the QLB in human medicine has driven veterinary research to investigate this block in companion and farm animals. To date, no study has investigated the QLB in rabbits. With the present cadaveric study, these authors aimed to carry out the following: firstly, to investigate the anatomical layout of the thoraco-lumbar area in rabbits; secondly, to design a feasible ultrasound-guided QLB for rabbits; and thirdly, after comparing different volumes of injectate and analyzing the spread obtained, to propose the most suitable volume of injectate to administer. This research was conducted by performing anatomical dissections and computed tomographic studies in rabbit cadavers. Ultrasound-guided (US-guided) loco-regional anesthesia can provide significant analgesia and anesthetic-sparing effects when used in rabbits. The aims of this study were to investigate the thoraco-lumbar anatomy of the rabbits, particularly the quadratus lumborum (QL) muscle, to design an appropriate US-guided quadratus lumborum block (QLB) specific for rabbits, and to define the most adequate volume of injectate required to consistently cover the ventral branches of T11 to L3 without affecting the pelvic limb innervation (L4, L5 and L6). Sixteen adult rabbit cadavers were included in the study. After randomization, four different volumes of injectate (0.1 mL/kg, 0.2 mL/kg, 0.3 mL/kg and 0.4 mL/kg) were tested, with these volumes additionally randomized to two sites of injection (right or left QL fascia). An ultrasound-guided QLB was performed with a solution of lidocaine, iodinated contrast and tissue dye (in a proportion of 3:1:1 volume, respectively), with subsequent computed tomography (CT) and anatomical dissection, to evaluate the spread of the injectate. In all but one case, the US-guided QLB performed with a dorsolateral approach using 0.3 mL/kg was adequate, while a dose of 0.4 mL/kg consistently reached the targeted nerves but also extended to L4 and caudally. This may suggest that an injectate volume of 0.3 mL/kg may be the most appropriate to produce adequate spread while not affecting pelvic limb innervation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVE This retrospective study aimed to measure rabbit laryngotracheal dimensions at different locations on computed tomography (CT), assess the relationship of these measurements with rabbit body weight, determine the most common narrowest measurement and assess its relationship with endotracheal tube (ETT) size and body weight. ANIMALS 66 adult domestic rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus) of different breeds and body weights. PROCEDURES CT laryngotracheal luminal height, width, and cross-sectional area measurements were made at the rostral thyroid cartilage at the level of the arytenoids, caudal thyroid cartilage/rostral cricoid cartilage, caudal cricoid cartilage/cranial trachea, and trachea at the level of the fifth cervical vertebra. RESULTS The data for every measurement of luminal airway dimensions revealed robust positive associations with body weight (P < .001). The narrowest laryngotracheal measurement was the width at the level of the caudal thyroid cartilage/rostral cricoid cartilage, and the smallest cross-sectional area was at the rostral thyroid cartilage at the level of the arytenoids. There was a strong association between body weight and the likelihood of appropriate ETT fit. To have at least an 80% chance of appropriate ETT fit with a 2.0, 2.5, and 3.0 mm ETT, the rabbits' weight predicted by the model (lower 95% confidence limit) were at least 2.99 (2.72) kg, 5.24 (4.65) kg, and 5.80 (5.21) kg, respectively. CLINICAL RELEVANCE The laryngotracheal lumen was narrowest at the level of the caudal thyroid cartilage in rabbits, which indicates this location may be the limiting factor in determining ETT size in rabbits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Coagulation is a protective mechanism that prevents blood loss. The prothrombin time and activated partial thromboplastin clotting time are the most used laboratory tests used to assess coagulation status in all mammals. However, these tests do not accurately reflect the in vivo coagulation process due to complex interactions between blood cells and coagulation elements. New cell-based models incorporate the role of cells to explain the formation/destruction of the blood clot through viscoelastic laboratory techniques, such as thromboelastography (TEG). Thromboelastography reference ranges have been determined for humans, dogs, cats, horses, rats, mice, and laboratory rabbits but they have not been previously defined in pet rabbits. The aim of the article is to establish the reference-range values for TEG parameters in pet rabbits. Included in this study were 24 healthy rescue pet rabbits. A TEG 5000 Thromboelastograph Hemostasis System with citrated kaolin-activated blood was used. The reference ranges obtained for reaction time (R) were 1.4–6.9 min; clot formation time (K) was 0.8–2.2 min; α-angle was 65.8–82.2 degrees; maximal amplitude (MA) was 53.7–73.5 mm; measure of clot strength/firmness (G-value) was 5796.6–13,885.9 dyn/cm2; the percentage of clot lysis in 30 min (LY30%) was 0–41.5%. This study provides the reference ranges of TEG in pet rabbits. Thromboelastography (TEG) is a viscoelastic technique that allows the examination of both cellular and plasma protein clotting factors. Thromboelastography helps to investigate the underlying coagulopathy and to monitor therapeutic modalities. Although viscoelastic techniques have been used in human and veterinary medicine, reference ranges in pet rabbits are missing. The objective of this study is to establish the reference-range values of TEG parameters in healthy pet rabbits. 24 healthy pet rabbits of different breeds were included: 16 crossbreeds, four Californians, two lops, one lionhead, and one angora. Four rabbits were less than one year old and 20 were older than one year. Twelve rabbits were neutered females, 10 neutered males, and two were intact females. Health status was assessed through a physical examination, a complete blood work, and a coagulation profile. A TEG 5000 Thromboelastograph Hemostasis System was used with kaolin-activated citrated whole blood. All samples were analysed 30 min postextraction. The TEG reference ranges were reaction time (R) 1.4–6.9 min; clot formation time (K) 0.8–2.2 min; α angle 65.8–82.2 degrees; maximal amplitude (MA) 53.7–73.5 mm; measure of clot strength/firmness (G-value) 5796.6–13,885.9 dyn/cm2; and percentage of clot lysis in 30 min (LY30%) 0–41.5%. This study provides the reference ranges of TEG in pet rabbits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The internal carotid artery (ICA) is one of the major vessels in the cranial circulation. Characters concerning the ICA, such as its course in the auditory region, have been employed frequently in phylogenetic analyses of mammals, including extinct taxa. In lagomorphs, however, our knowledge on vascular features of the auditory region has been based predominantly on living species, mostly on the European rabbit. We present the first survey on 11 out of 12 extant genera and key fossil taxa such as stem lagomorphs and early crown representatives (Archaeolagus and Prolagus). The ICA pattern shows a modified transpromontorial course in stem taxa (Litolagus, Megalagus and Palaeolagus) and Archaeolagus, which we propose as the ancestral character state for Lagomorpha, similar to that for the earliest rodents, plesiadapids and scandentians. The ICA pattern in leporids is perbullar, but shows structural similarities to stem taxa, whereas the extrabullar ICA course in Ochotona is apparently a highly derived condition. Prolagus shows a mixed character state between leporids and Ochotona in its ICA route. The persistence of the transpromontorial ICA course and similarities in the carotid canal structure among stem taxa and crown leporids support morphological conservatism in Lagomorpha, in contrast to their sister clade Rodentia. This article is part of the theme issue 'The mammalian skull: development, structure and function'. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]