Epiphora

Epiphora in rabbits is an abnormal flow of tears from the eyes due to a variety of reasons.

Symptoms

 * Loss of fur, irritation, or matted fur on the face due to the constant moisture
 * Thick white substance accumulated in the corner of the eye due to an eye infection
 * Corneal ulcers

Causes

 * Blockage of the tear drainage system, which can be due to the following reasons:
 * Eye infections from dental disease or bacteria.
 * Cheek tooth or incisor elongation of the tooth roots.
 * Sinus infections that cause swelling next to the tear ducts.
 * External facial trauma.
 * Cancer.
 * Scarring from chronic upper respiratory infections.


 * Overproduction of aqueous portion of tears, usually in response to eye irritation from the following reasons:
 * Foreign bodies such as hay, litter, or bedding.
 * Eye abscess.
 * Conjunctivitis.
 * Corneal ulcers (ulcerative keratitis), usually from trauma
 * Eye inflammation (anterior uveitis) from bacterial infection or E. cuniculi.
 * Glaucoma.
 * Eyelid cancer.
 * Eyelid inflammation (blepharitis).


 * Poor eyelid function due to malformation or deformity. Examples includes eyelid scarring due to trauma or facial paralysis.

Epiphora due to cheek tooth elongation is more usually seen in middle-aged rabbits. Young animals are more likely to have epiphora due to congenital tooth malocclusion and eyelid deformations. Dwarf and lop breeds commonly have epiphora due to congenital tooth malocclusion.

Treatment
Epiphora may be lifelong, and home treatment by keeping the face clean and dry is important to prevent secondary skin infections. A bonded rabbit partner can often help groom the face to keep it clean.