What Are the Treatments for Spondylosis in Rabbits?

Spondylosis is a disorder in which noncancerous, tumor-like growths begin to grow on a rabbit's spine. While this disorder can be painful, there are often little or no apparent symptoms. Treatment focuses on managing symptoms rather than reversing the disorder.

  1. Diet and Exercise

    • Spondylosis is often caused by obesity and lack of movement. A strict diet and increased activity can help slow the disorder's progression.

    Prescription

    • Veterinarians often prescribe strong pain relievers and anti-inflammatory drugs, as well as antibiotics to prevent infection.

    Steroids

    • Veterinarians can also inject steroid medications into rabbits with spondylosis to help heal wounds and prevent ulcers from forming.

    Supplements

    • Giving a rabbit a nutritional supplement called glucosamine is said to be helpful in reducing chronic pain from spondylosis.

    Massage

    • Massage is a technique that can be helpful in soothing a rabbit whose muscles are tight and ache in the affected area of the spine.

    Acupuncture

    • Acupuncture is an alternative treatment method in which a veterinarian strategically places needles in the rabbit to stimulate natural pain relievers in the body.