Fetal Maceration Associated with Prolonged Gestation in a New Zealand White Rabbit

Abstract

A 3.5-year-old New Zealand White rabbit was presented with prolonged gestation, abdominal distension, dullness and lethargy. Clinical examination revealed firm, immobile masses on abdominal palpation and ultrasonography showed hyperechoic fetal structures without cardiac activity, suggestive of fetal death. Owing to the poor prognosis, the rabbit was humanely euthanized. Postmortem examination revealed a markedly distended uterus containing three macerated fetuses with foul-smelling reddish-brown fluid, along with mild hepatic and renal congestion confirming fetal maceration.