CORRECTION OF UMBILICAL HERNIA IN A RABBIT AT TEACHING & TRAINING PET HOSPITAL AND RESEARCH CENTER, DHAKA: A CASE REPORT

Abstract

The case report outlines the successful surgical correction of an umbilical hernia in a six-month-old male mixed-breed rabbit weighing 1.5 kg which was presented at the Teaching and Training Pet Hospital and Research Center (TTPHRC), Purbachal, Dhaka. The rabbit presented with a three-month history of a soft, reducible, and painless umbilical swelling. Clinical indicators were within physiological norms, and surgical intervention was necessary. Anesthesia and control measures included a 10-hour fasting period, followed by sedation with xylazine and induction with ketamine HCL after atropinization. Surgical protocols were strictly followed. A small incision exposed 2 cm hernial sac, and the caecum segments were gently relocated before suturing the hernial ring. Post-surgery, the rabbit received ciprofloxacin, chlorpheniramine maleate, and meloxicam, with bactrocin 2% applied to the surgical site. The rabbit was advised to wear an e-collar, maintain high fiber diet, and limit excessive activity. The rabbit recovered smoothly, with no post-anesthetic complications. A follow-up on the seventh day confirmed complete incision site healing. This case highlights the importance of timely surgical intervention for rabbit umbilical hernias and emphasizes the need of strict preoperative and postoperative care for successful outcomes.