Respiratory Complex in Rabbits (Pasteurellosis)

Pasteurella multocida is one of the most common isolated bacteria from respiratory complex condition in rabbitries. Infection with this bacterium is characterized by a respiratory syndrome identified primarily by rhinitis (contagious coryza), by pneumonia, or by a rhinopneumonia complex. P. multocida is an opportunist and contagious microorganism mainly transmitted by direct contact and aerosol. Pasteurellosis is frequently endemic in rabbits in different countries and can cause considerable economic losses in rabbitries throughout the world due to high morbidity, poor performances, and mortality. Dissemination of metastatic and septicemic forms contributes to the establishment of infection and lesions in several body tissues and organs. Treatments with antibiotics are not fully effective and do not avoid relapses. The control of environmental factors such as air renewal and animals’ thermal comfort are crucial as prevention measures. Genetic selection of more resistant rabbits is, also, a new approach to reduce the prevalence of pasteurellosis since. This chapter highlights the main issues related to the diagnosis, control, and prevention of pasteurellosis in rabbits.