Epiphora is defined as an abnormal overflow of tears down the face, so instead of running through the nasolacrimal tear duct, which runs from the eye and down to the nose, the tears overflow and run down the face. Whilst this is not life-threatening, it is important to ascertain why it is happening and look to treat the underlying cause/s.

Purulent (pus) epiphora ©Vladimir Jekl

Epiphora appears like your rabbit is crying and may affect one or both eyes depending upon the cause. The tears may be clear or may have a white, milky tinge to them, and may leave a mineral deposit on the fur. The fur under and around the eye/s will be wet and if left untreated, the fur will start to fall out and the skin will become red and sore.

One of two primary reasons will cause epiphora.

1. There is excessive tear production due to an irritating or painful condition affecting the eye/s, such as conjunctivitis, glaucoma, uveitis or keratitis.
2. The tears are unable to run down and through the tear duct. This is the most common cause in pet rabbits, and is usually because there is a blockage or kink to the tear duct, usually as a result of dental disease.

In itself the condition is not life-threatening, but will be painful for the rabbit so needs veterinary attention to identify and treat the underlying cause/s. If the condition is left untreated and the skin around the eyes becomes sore, it may bleed and in the warmer months will be a potential risk for flystrike.

Your veterinarian will examine your rabbits’ eyes, even if only one is affected. They may attempt to flush the tear ducts, which can often be done consciously with local anesthetic placed into the eyes to make it more comfortable for the rabbit. However, if the skin is very sore and inflamed it may not be possible to attempt this with the rabbit conscious and sedation may be required. If the tear ducts are blocked, then it will not be possible to flush them. Taking dental x-rays will help to determine if there is a dental problem causing the epiphora.

This will depend upon the cause. If the underlying cause is overgrowth of the upper tooth roots, which are impinging upon the nasolacrimal tear duct preventing the tears from draining, this is very difficult to cure. Regular dental treatment, which depending upon the affected teeth will likely require a general anesthetic, may help to provide some relief but will need to be repeated. If the incisor teeth are the cause and are misaligned then removal of the teeth may effect a cure, although this may not be instant. The rabbit may require eye drops to be put in at home, as well as keeping the fur and skin around the eye/s clean and dry. Using a barrier cream on the skin, taking great care not to get any into the eyes, can help to protect the skin from the tears. Keeping your rabbit in a clean environment with good ventilation is vital and using dust-free hay to reduce particles within the air. Gentle cleaning and wiping of the skin and removing matted fur to keep this clean and prevent secondary bacterial infections is important. Bonded companions will clean each other around the eyes, so if your rabbit does not have a companion, then this is another benefit, as well as all the many others, for them to have one.