# Pneumoperitoneum Secondary to Colonic Perforation in a Domestic Rabbit

## TL;DR

This case report describes a rare instance of pneumoperitoneum in a domestic rabbit caused by a perforated colon, highlighting the importance of imaging for diagnosis.

## Contribution

Adds a new clinical case to the limited literature on pneumoperitoneum in rabbits and emphasizes diagnostic imaging techniques.

## Key findings

- Pneumoperitoneum in a rabbit was diagnosed via radiography and ultrasonography.
- Colonic perforation with mural abscess formation was confirmed surgically.
- The rabbit underwent intraoperative euthanasia due to severe lesions and adhesions.

## Abstract

Pneumoperitoneum is defined as the presence of free gas within the abdominal cavity and, in domestic rabbits, represents a rare clinical condition. In most cases, it is secondary to gastrointestinal tract perforation, rapidly progressing to septic peritonitis with an unfavorable prognosis. This case report describes a pneumoperitoneum secondary to descending colon perforation in a domestic rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus). The aim is to contribute to the limited available literature and emphasize the importance of diagnostic imaging, particularly radiography, for early recognition and timely therapeutic management.

A two-year-old, intact female, domestic fawn-colored dwarf lop rabbit was presented with apathy and anorexia. Clinical examination revealed hypothermia, tachycardia, and abdominal pain. Routine hematology, biochemistry, radiographic and ultrasonographic examinations were performed. Radiographic evaluation demonstrated pneumoperitoneum, generalized small intestinal distention and marked focal dilation of the descending colon by amorphous and partially mineralized material. Ultrasonography confirmed the presence of free gas along with abdominal effusion. Exploratory laparotomy revealed focal perforation of the descending colon associated with mural abscess formation containing fecal material and pus. The severity of the lesions and multiple adhesions to adjacent organs (urinary bladder and uterus) led to the decision for intraoperative euthanasia. This case report describes clinical, imaging and surgical findings of pneumoperitoneum related to septic peritonitis secondary to colonic perforation in a domestic rabbit.