Prevention of encephalitozoonosis can be promoted by VNs through pre-purchase rabbit consultations , client education in waiting rooms and via social media .
Education about encephalitozoonosis and its transmission can be discussed , including giving advice on implementing good hygiene practices and preventing contact with infected urine and with wild rabbits or rodents . This can be achieved through regular disinfection of the environment ( including food and water bowls ), providing a safe and secure environment and avoiding feeding fresh greens ( e . g . dandelions ) from areas that could be contaminated by wild rabbits .
E . cuniculi can be easily destroyed by disinfection , boiling or autoclaving . Owners can also implement hay racks , raised food bowls and water bottles to reduce the risk of urine contamination [ 15 ] . Owners may wish to consider providing water in bottles only , but this should be recommended with care as it may reduce the rabbit ' s water intake . For rabbits that will only drink from a bowl , the water bowl can be raised and cleaned regularly . Rabbits can also be trained to use litter trays , which can aid hygiene and limit transmission [ 24 ] . Prophylactic treatment with fenbendazole should be considered , especially for new rabbits joining an established rabbit home which may have been exposed to the parasite .
Conclusion
Encephalitozoonosis is a highly significant disease . With rabbit ownership becoming increasingly common , and the risk of zoonosis , all veterinary professionals should aim to educate owners on the prevalence of this disease in pet rabbits . Encephalitozoonosis can be a devastating disease , which can result in neurological , renal and ophthalmic presentations . VNs should be aware of the pathology of such diseases to support holistic and evidence-based veterinary nursing care . Equally , VNs should have a good knowledge of the prophylactic and long-term management options for encephalitozoonosis , in order to provide accurate information to owners under veterinary direction .
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