Valvular Regurgitation and Congestive Heart Failure in an Elderly Dutch Rabbit ( Oryctolagus cuniculus )

Abstract

Advances in veterinary diagnostics and treatment have increased awareness of cardiovascular diseases in pet rabbits, with age‐related conditions such as valvular disorders becoming more common as these animals live longer. This report describes a seven‐year‐old male Dutch rabbit ( Oryctolagus cuniculus ) diagnosed with congestive heart failure caused by both mitral and tricuspid regurgitation. Clinical signs included coarse lung crackles, mild tachycardia, and muffled heart sounds. Blood analysis showed moderate leukocytosis with neutrophilia and monocytosis. Echocardiography revealed enlargement of the left atrium, significant valvular regurgitation, and small fluid accumulations in the pleural and pericardial cavities. Treatment with furosemide and enalapril provided brief improvement over 2 weeks before the rabbit′s death. The case highlights valvular regurgitation as a frequent cause of heart failure in aging rabbits and emphasizes the value of early detection and timely therapy in improving outcomes and extending quality of life in affected animals.