Name
Clinical and Surgical Oncology in Pet Rabbits: A 10-Year Literature Review
Description
Neoplastic disease has emerged as a major cause of morbidity and mortality in pet rabbits as longevity and standards of veterinary care continue to improve. Despite this trend, oncologic conditions in rabbits remain underrecognized, frequently misdiagnosed, and inconsistently managed in clinical practice. The purpose of this poster is to provide a clinically oriented synthesis of current evidence in medical and surgical oncology in domestic rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus), with an emphasis on diagnostic decision-making and therapeutic relevance. A structured literature review was performed using PubMed/MEDLINE, ScienceDirect, and CAB Abstracts, including publications from 2015 to 2025. Peer-reviewed studies, case series, and clinically relevant case reports describing spontaneous neoplasms in pet rabbits were analyzed. Data were extracted and organized by organ system, tumor type, clinical presentation, diagnostic approach, treatment modality, and outcome. Reproductive, hemolymphatic, cutaneous, orofacial, and respiratory neoplasms were most frequently described. Uterine adenocarcinoma remains the predominant tumor in intact females and represents the most preventable oncologic condition through early ovariohysterectomy. Cutaneous and orofacial tumors demonstrated marked biological variability and were commonly confused with inflammatory or dental disease, leading to delayed diagnosis. Surgery remains the primary therapeutic option for most solid tumors, while radiotherapy and chemotherapy are described less consistently and lack standardized protocols in this species. This synthesis highlights common diagnostic pitfalls, identifies clinical scenarios in which surgical intervention offers meaningful benefit, and reinforces prevention and early diagnosis as cornerstones of rabbit oncology. Improved awareness and evidence-based clinical strategies may significantly enhance outcomes and quality of life in affected patients.
Session Type
Poster