Expert: Dana Krempels, Ph.D. - 1/14/2009

Question
This is a very strange question. At least I think it is ... first some background:

I just had a boy bunny neutered yesterday.  He's a great little guy, and came through with flying colors.  He (Buddy) is my third bunny, the others are a bonded male/female pair.  So I'm waiting until he heals to be introduced to them.
He was also treated for a mild case of ear mites at the same time as the neuter.  The vet said she cleaned his ears and gave him a Revolution treatment.  We think he's about 2 or 3 years old.
Here's the odd part...
Ever since I got him home after the procedure; when he shakes his head I hear an odd rattling sound.  I'm wondering if his ear is still "wet" from the cleaning?  I called the vet, but she hasn't called back yet.  
Hoping you can give some insight on this.  Thank you!

Answer
Dear Evelyn,

If the vet did an ear flush or used swabs to clean out the ears, then the clicking/rattling you hear is likely residual moisture from the cleaning.  If this doesn't clear up in 3-5 days, the vet should have another look to be sure there's no infection in the ear causing the wet "smacking" noise.

It's nothing to worry about unless it persists for several days.  Then it's time for a look, to be sure all is cleaned and dried, and nothing irritating is stuck in the ear canal.

Hope this helps.

Dana