📚 What Is Epiphora?

Epiphora refers to excessive tearing or abnormal tear overflow in rabbits. It's typically due to blocked tear ducts (nasolacrimal obstruction), eye inflammation, or even dental disease. While not life-threatening, persistent runny eyes can cause discomfort and skin irritation. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}

👁️ How Rabbit Tear Ducts Work

Rabbits have a single nasolacrimal duct per eye that travels through the skull into the nasal cavity. This narrow and winding pathway is vulnerable to blockage from infection, swelling, or pressure from tooth roots. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}

⚠️ Common Causes of Runny Eyes

• Nasolacrimal duct blockage: Often due to dental disease (elongated molar roots or root abscesses pressing on the duct). :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}
• Congenital duct issues: Narrow, kinked ducts are common in dwarf and lop breeds. :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}
• Infection/inflammation: Dacryocystitis with purulent discharge is common. :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}
• Eye disease: Corneal ulcers, conjunctivitis, glaucoma can increase tear production. :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}
• Facial or tumor masses: Pressure on ducts from abscesses, tumors or fractured bones. :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}
• Foreign bodies or trauma: Hay or bedding debris causing irritation. :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}

🔍 Signs & Symptoms to Recognize

• Constant tear overflow, clear or thick discharge, sometimes pigmented or odoriferous. :contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11}
• Matted fur, skin irritation, and hair loss around eyes and nose. :contentReference[oaicite:12]{index=12}
• Red or swollen eyes, blinking, squinting, or corneal cloudiness. :contentReference[oaicite:13]{index=13}
• Additional signs: facial swelling, weight loss, decreased appetite, or behavioral signs of pain. :contentReference[oaicite:14]{index=14}

🩺 Diagnosing Epiphora

• Thorough history & physical exam including dental assessment. :contentReference[oaicite:15]{index=15}
• Fluorescein stain to check for corneal ulcers. :contentReference[oaicite:16]{index=16}
• Nasolacrimal duct flushing to diagnose and possibly resolve partial blockages. :contentReference[oaicite:17]{index=17}
• Skull X-rays or CT scans to evaluate molar roots, abscesses, or masses. :contentReference[oaicite:18]{index=18}
• Culture & cytology of discharge to identify infection. :contentReference[oaicite:19]{index=19}

💊 Treatment Options

1. Duct Flushing

Gentle flushing of the tear duct—possibly requiring sedation—can dislodge obstructions or debris. :contentReference[oaicite:20]{index=20}

2. Dental Care

Address underlying dental issues: trimming overgrown teeth or removing abscessed roots. :contentReference[oaicite:21]{index=21}

3. Infection Management

Systemic antibiotics targeting common pathogens (e.g., Pasteurella), plus topical antibiotic/steroid eye drops. :contentReference[oaicite:22]{index=22}

4. Eye Disease Treatment

Use antiseptic or antibiotic drops for ulceration or conjunctivitis, along with anti-inflammatories or glaucoma therapy where needed. :contentReference[oaicite:23]{index=23}

5. Surgical Intervention

Severe cases—such as tumors or persistent blockage—may require surgical removal of abscesses or reconstructive procedures. :contentReference[oaicite:24]{index=24}

6. Supportive Care

Gently clean the eye area daily, keep fur trimmed to reduce matting, and monitor skin health. Barrier creams can protect irritated skin. :contentReference[oaicite:25]{index=25}

🏠 Home Care & Long-Term Management

• Daily cleaning with warm, damp cloth or sterile saline to prevent buildup and odor.
• Trim facial fur or use barriers to avoid skin maceration.
• Maintain hygiene and ventilation in living areas—dust-free hay and dry bedding. :contentReference[oaicite:26]{index=26}
• Flush tear duct periodically if recommended by your vet.
• Nutritional support and pain management during healing.
• Bonded companion rabbits can assist with mutual grooming, keeping the eye area clean. :contentReference[oaicite:27]{index=27}

📊 Quick Reference Table

🧠 Vet Tips for 2025

• Include tear duct evaluation in all dental exams—prevent runny eyes early.
• Use minimally invasive flushing with sedation only when needed.
• Combine systemic and topical treatments for best outcomes.
• Recommend barrier cream and hygiene protocols post-visit.
• Advise owners on weekly fur inspection and healthy diet to prevent recurrence.

🔚 Final Takeaway

Epiphora in rabbits is a common sign of underlying issues from dental disease to eye pathology. Timely diagnosis, appropriate treatment, and consistent home care—including cleaning and monitoring—can provide relief and prevent complications. While some bunnies may require ongoing management, many recover well in 2025 and beyond with veterinary partnership. 🐇❤️

🌟 Partner Services

• Ask A Vet: 24/7 live access to rabbit eye and dental experts—for flush guidance, medication help, and follow-up support.
• Woopf: Eye-cleaning kits, barrier creams, and dust-free hay to keep tear-stained fur clean and healthy.
• Purrz: Soothing topical gels, gentle cleansers, and eye drop applicators designed for comfortable use.