Diagnostic Methods for Coccidiosis Outbreaks on Rabbit Farms

Diagnosis of coccidiosis: First, based on the disease pattern in the rabbit herd. The herd is mostly infected and becomes ill during warm and rainy seasons, breaking out at almost the same time every year, especially where feeding management is improper and sanitary conditions are poor. Both illness and death are more common in young rabbits. Second, based on the clinical symptoms of sick rabbits. Sick rabbits have a distended abdomen, diarrhea with continuous urination, anemia or jaundice (the conjunctiva of the eyes and oral mucosa appear pale white or yellow), and gradually become emaciated. Third, necropsy of sick rabbits. Yellow nodules and necrotic foci on the surface of the intestines and liver are the characteristic changes. Fourth, microscopic examination of rabbit feces, intestinal mucosa and the contents of the nodules. If coccidian oocysts are found, a diagnosis of coccidiosis can be confirmed.