Encephalitozoon cuniculi (EC) is a single-celled parasite that many rabbits come in contact with but does not always cause disease.
The organ most commonly affected by E. cuniculi is the brain, but some rabbits can also develop kidney disease or eye issues. Definitive diagnosis is not straightforward, but tests do exist to support a diagnosis.
EC spores are shed through the urine of an infected individual and then either ingested or inhaled by another rabbit, resulting in infection. Most rabbits become infected when they are young or during gestation from their dam (mother)
Most rabbits will never develop symptoms, and others may be infected for years before symptoms develop. There is no way to predict whether an infected rabbit will develop symptoms in the future.
Classic clinical signs include:
- Head tilt
- Rapid eye movements side to side (nystagmus)
- Stumbling, wobbly gait (ataxia)
- Circling
- Rolling
Other clinical signs:
- Cataracts
- Chronic or recurrent episodes of inappetence
- Kidney disease
Head tilt can also indicate an inner ear infection so prompt diagnosis and appropriate treatment by a vet is vital. Buns can recover from EC with treatment. Some may have varying degrees of head tilt, but with the right support and care they can live happy healthy lives.
Help for Head Tilt Hoppers is an informative and supportive FB group for those considering, or who already care for, a tilty bun.
Diagnosing EC in a rabbit is not straightforward. However, a presumptive diagnosis can be made based on a combination of factors. These include the history, physical examination, specific disease tests, and the elimination of other diseases.
Diagnostics:
- Physical examination
- Complete blood work (CBC and biochemistry)
- Diagnostic imaging (x-rays or advanced imaging)
- Antibody titer testing (IgG and IgM)
- Inflammatory proteins (C-reactive protein)