Etiology:  The pathogenesis of pregnancy toxemia is not well-known, but may be similar to ketosis in sheep.  Predisposing factors include breed, age, sex, obesity, and the number of previous litters.

Incidence:  Pregnancy toxemia is seldom recognized in domestic rabbits [1].

Clinical Signs:  Signs range from a mild, nearly asymptomatic condition to a severe, rapidly fatal disease.  The most common signs are depression, dyspnea, an acetic (vinegar-like) odor to the breath, decreased urine production, abortion, CNS signs, and sudden death just prior to or just after kindling.

Pathology:  Gross lesions include general obesity, areas of necrosis in the mesenteric fat, and a pale yellow liver, heart, and kidneys.  Fatty changes are seen microscopically in the liver, heart, and kidneys.

Diagnosis:  The diagnosis is based on history and clinical signs.

1.            The Laboratory Rabbit, Guinea Pig, Hamster, And Other Rodents. 1 ed2012, 225 Wyman Street, Waltham, MA 02451: Elsevier.