Re: Help! My pet rabbit has pneumonia. Days are numbered...

Hello Perry,

A couple of things to keep in mind...

Your rabbit is in a weakened state. In this condition the immune system can get a little carried away. Inflammation is part of the immune process, but when it gets carried away it can cause further damage.

Chlorite seems to be able to slow down "out of control" inflammation. This can give the body a chance to start the repair process.

However, chlorite has no nutrition value. It is a free radical oxidizer. You need to complement your efforts with high quality nutrition that your rabbit can use to regenerate.

In addition, hydration is very important. I have suggested smaller amounts of sodium chlorite because when animals are ill they frequently become dehydrated. With sodium chlorite the dehydration concentrates the chemical and it can make the kidneys have to work harder.

If your rabbit had healthy kidneys I would suggest adding a very small amount of salt to the liter you mixed up, but salt puts some additional strain on the kidneys. You may mention this to your vet and discuss it. In 1 liter of water something like 50 - 100 mg of salt will help with hydration. If the vet isn't on board with this, don't do it.

You end up using a multiple approach. The sodium chlorite may help control inflammation and provide some relief to the body. The diet provides nutrition so the body can rebuild. And your love and prayers provide emotional support.

Tom