Radiological and laboratory prognostic parameters for gastric dilation in rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus)

Abstract

Background

The aim of this study was to evaluate the radiographical and laboratory findings in pet rabbits with gastric dilation (GD) and identify prognostic parameters.

Methods

One hundred and fifty-five rabbits with GD were included for the radiographical analyses and 75 for the laboratory analyses. A vertebral stomach score (VSS) was established to determine the extension of the stomach on lateral radiographs. In addition, the caudal limit of gastric distention and the extension and position of gas accumulation in the stomach were recorded.

Results

The VSS was significantly higher in rabbits with GD than in healthy rabbits (p = 0.001). Extensive amounts of gas accumulation in the stomach (p = 0.001) and a ventral or central location of gas accumulation (p = 0.023) were associated with significantly increased mortality. Azotemia (51%), hyperglycaemia (44%) and hyponatraemia (37%) were the most frequent biochemical alterations in rabbits with GD.

Limitations

Due to the retrospective nature of the data, the cause of GD could not be determined in all animals.

Conclusion

Rabbits with GD and severe alterations in glucose, creatinine and sodium concentrations, ventral or central gas accumulations and a large amount of gas in the stomach had a poor prognosis.