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Baytril
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Baytril is one of the fluoroquinolones antibiotics. It works by preventing bacteria DNA from coiling correctly. While it is commonly given to cats and dogs, veterinarians also prescribe it for rabbits, most commonly to treat Pasteurella infections and what is commonly called snuffles. While the antibiotic is safe, it can suppress a rabbit's immune system. Because there are other antibiotics available, it is always safest to have a culture done and know that baytril is the best antibiotic for the job. However, there may be instances where a culture simply cannot be done or is impractical. For your rabbit's welfare, make sure your veterinarian is familiar with treating rabbits. Remember that rabbits are considered an exotic pet and not all veterinarians have experience with exotics.
About Antibiotics for Rabbits
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Because baytril has been used so much, many bacteria strains are becoming resistant to it. But there are other antibiotics available. With rabbits, the choice of an antibiotic is important because they have a very delicate and sensitive digestive tract and many antibiotics that work on other animals cause too much damage to a rabbit's system. Tribrissen, a trimethoprim sulfa, interferes with bacterial folate metabolism making it a first line defense choice. Chloramphenicol or its sister compound florfenicol are two other effective antibiotics. They work on bacterial ribosomes. Metronidazole is another antibiotic safe for rabbits.
Rabbits should avoid penicillin, cephalosporins, and clindamycin. Although these antibiotics generally kill the infection-causing bacteria, they can destroy the rabbit's healthy gut flora which can result in an often fatal colitis.
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Use of Baytril in Rabbits
Baytril (enrofloxacin) is an antibiotic for animals that comes in a pill, liquid or injection. Because baytril is most commonly prescribed for cats and dogs, the pill and liquid is now produced in a liver flavor which your rabbit will not like. As such, you may have to mix the medicine with fruit juice in order to get your rabbit to take it. Do not give your rabbit baytril unless told to do so by your veterinarian and always follow dosing instructions.