Myxomatosis: protect your bunny

The Blue Cross is urging rabbit owners to help protect their pets against killer disease myxomatosis following a recent outbreak across Britain. Make sure your rabbit has been vaccinated against the disease and look out for symptoms including sore, puffy eyes and breathing difficulties and see your vet as soon as possible with any concerns.

Dick Voigt, Blue Cross director of veterinary services said: "Serious conditions in rabbits, such as myxomatosis and flystrike, are often preventable. We strongly advise all rabbit owners to make sure their pets are fully vaccinated and that rabbits and their living areas are cleaned regularly."

Myxomatosis arrived in Britain during the 1950s, killing millions of wild rabbits. It is carried by fleas and mosquitoes that bite and can transfer the disease between wild and domestic rabbits. Cats and dogs can carry infected fleas so indoor rabbits are also at risk.

Flystrike (myiasis) is another common condition which occurs when flies lay their eggs on or near rabbits. The hatching maggots then bury themselves in a rabbit's fur and may feed off the rabbit's flesh. Flies are attracted by damp, dirty fur and living areas so check your rabbit at least twice a day to make sure it is clean and contact your vet immediately if you think anything is wrong.

August 2007