Pasturella in rabbits can cause which condition?

• A. Hair loss
• B. Ear mites
• C. Snuffles
• D. Diarrhea

Answer: (C)

Pasteurella infection in rabbits primarily causes an upper respiratory disease, most recognizable as snuffles—nasal discharge with sneezing. Pasteurella multocida colonizes the nasal passages and can spread to the conjunctiva and middle ear, leading to ocular discharge or otitis, but the hallmark presentation evaluated on exams is the nasal infection described as snuffles.

Hair loss isn’t a typical sign of pasteurellosis and would suggest other causes such as dermatologic conditions or parasites. Ear mites produce itching, head shaking, and ear crusts rather than a Pasteurella-driven nasal illness. Diarrhea points to gastrointestinal or other systemic issues, not the classic respiratory infection caused by Pasteurella in rabbits.