Encephalitozoon cuniculi is a microsporidian parasite infecting rabbits that causes neurological and renal disease with significant welfare implications.
Rabbits with active E. cuniculi disease experience significant welfare impacts. Head tilt causes disorientation, rolling and inability to perform normal behaviours. Uveitis and cataracts impair vision. Renal failure causes progressive malaise and discomfort. The sudden onset of neurological signs is extremely distressing and many rabbits are euthanised at presentation, sometimes unnecessarily.