Epizootic Rabbit Enteropathy (ERE)

The present chapter mainly highlights the etiology, pathophysiology, and clinical approach of epizootic rabbit enteropathy (ERE). This syndrome mainly affects young rabbits around weaning and even adult animals reared on farms. More than two decades after its emergence (in France, 1996), the etiopathogenesis of this affection remains unclear. The hallmarks of ERE are cecal impaction and mucus secretion into the colon, without notable associated inflammation. The diagnosis is based on clinical signs and necropsy findings. Under a histological approach, mild to moderate atrophy and fusion of the villi associated with moderate transepithelial migration of heterophilic cells and mucosal infiltration of inflammatory cells can be observed. Therapeutic and even metaphylactic oral antibiotherapy can be performed to control the gut microbiome, but the implementation of feed restriction or feeding rabbits a high-fiber diet can be suitable to reduce morbidity and mortality. The control and prevention of ERE is a major key to managing gastrointestinal health and reducing morbidity and mortality rates.