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Myxomatosis – the disease

Since the introduction of myxomatosis in to the UK in the early 1950s to control wild rabbit populations, the annual appearance of affected dying rabbits in the countryside has become a common and distressing sight especially during late summer and autumn.

The myxoma virus which causes this dreadful disease only infects rabbits. The disease causes disfiguring skin swellings, particularly noticeable around the face and eyes, a high fever, and anorexia. Complications including pneumonia commonly occur in affected individuals. Unfortunately there is no specific treatment and a slow lingering death typically results. Sadly euthanasia is usually the most humane option available.

The risk to pet rabbits

It is often assumed that pet rabbits are less likely to be affected, but the typical veterinary practice caseload from August to November tells a very different story and many thousands of affected pet rabbits are seen annually by practices throughout the UK. Whilst close contact can spread the disease between rabbits, external parasites such as fleas, mites and biting flies are particularly important in transmitting the virus. This means that all pet rabbits are potentially at risk from infection.

The tendency for higher average temperatures in recent years, particularly during the winter months means that the parasites which carry the virus survive for longer. As a result myxomatosis cases are being reported outside the normal high-risk period and even in the depths of winter.

Prepare your rabbit for Summer!

Fortunately myxomatosis is easier to prevent than it is to treat. The major risk period is during the warmer weather when parasite activity is greatest. For optimum control of myxomatosis both the disease itself and the vectors which spread infection need to be considered. The 3-point plan below is an ideal way to protect your rabbit this summer

1. Vaccinate. Vaccination for myxomatosis is essential and should be given twice annually to provide year-round benefit. The vaccine contains a harmless virus which is similar to the myxoma virus and gives the immune system a head-start in fighting myxomatosis if exposed. Your rabbit’s vaccination visit is also an excellent opportunity to get the general health, teeth and claws checked, as well as discuss other preventative health care and diet since early recognition can avoid later serious issues developing.

2. Fleas & mites. It is also important to also reduce the chance of exposure to the virus by recognising, treating and preventing flea and mite infestations. We can advise on how to spot these problems and appropriate control measures to put in place.

3. Fly control is important not just for reducing the risk of disease transmission, but also because blow-flies can lay eggs particularly around the rabbit’s hindquarters leading to maggot infestation (also known as “fly-strike”). Using insecticidal fly-strips in the vicinity of the hutch or run outside the reach of your rabbit and, where appropriate, the use of fine-netting or screens should reduce the risk of your rabbit encountering flies. Strict attendance to hutch hygiene and twice-daily checking of your rabbit for faeces and fly eggs particularly around its hindquarters will also minimise the risk of fly-strike occurring. Regular soiling of your rabbit’s hindquarters needs careful cleaning and warrants further veterinary investigation. Preparations are available from the surgery for topical application which further reduces the risk from fly-strike.

So don’t delay. Make sure your rabbit is up to date with its vaccination and get prepared for Summer!

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