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Peer-reviewed veterinary case report

Feeding tube placement for rabbits that stop eating

By Makidon, Paul·Published in Lab animal·2005·University of Michigan Medical School, United States·View original on PubMed

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Original publication title: Esophagostomy tube placement in the anorectic rabbit.

Species:
rabbit

Plain-English summary

Anorexia, or not eating at all, is a serious issue in rabbits, especially in laboratory settings, as it can lead to severe liver problems and even death if not addressed quickly. The author discusses a method for placing an esophagostomy tube, which is a feeding tube inserted into the esophagus, as a better option compared to other feeding methods like pharyngostomy tubes, oral feeding, or nasogastric tubes. This technique aims to help rabbits that are not eating get the nutrition they need. The outcome of using this method can be beneficial for treating anorexia in rabbits.

Abstract

Anorexia is a common sign of illness in laboratory rabbits. When not treated promptly, the condition can lead to hepatic lipidosis and death. The author describes a technique for cervical esophagostomy as an alternative to pharyngostomy tube feeding, oral gavage, and nasogastric procedures.

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Original publication on PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16136074/