Rabbit owners beware of flystrike during hot summer months

As temperatures rise, the risk of a rabbit suffering from flystrike increases. The Blue Cross is reminding owners that daily checking for this disease is vital to protect their bunny.

Flystrike occurs when flies lay their eggs on the rabbit. The eggs then hatch into maggots; eating away at the surrounding flesh. If the rabbit already has a break in the skin, any kind of maggot will be able to eat into the wound and sometimes even down to the bone. Flystrike is one of the biggest killers of rabbits during the summer.

Caroline Reay, the Blue Cross’s chief veterinary surgeon at Merton animal hospital says: “All rabbits should be checked twice daily for signs of flystrike. Owners should check areas where fur gets dirty such as round the bottom or inside the dewlap for rabbits that have them.

Flies are not interested in clean dry fur, but will be attracted to dirty and damp areas, so if your rabbit is suffering from diarrhoea - or if faeces is solidifying around the area – see a vet immediately.”

Other ways to protect your rabbit:

• Avoid leaving decaying food in hutches or runs. There are products like Rearguard, to protect your rabbits, but it is important to still check for flystrike.
• Rabbits and guinea pigs are very susceptible to heat stroke, so always keep cages shaded and ventilated.
• if your rabbit is getting a dirty bottom, it may be an indication of teeth problems, and problems grooming. See a vet if this persists.
• For more information of caring for your rabbit, visit our free pet care information service at www.allaboutpets.org.uk