18 December 2008

Greater London rabbit owners have been warned about the outbreak of a potentially fatal disease.

Kevin Castle, veterinary surgeon at Pet Care, Erith, recently revealed that four pet rabbits died after contracting viral haemorrhagic disease (VHD).

Up to 90 per cent of pets that are infected with the virus die within 36 hours of showing symptoms.

Mr Castle warns that the bug causes bleeding from the nose and can contaminate surfaces for up to three months.

However, animal lovers can get pets vaccinated against the disease to prevent rabbits from becoming ill.

"Rabbit owners have often heard of myxomatosis but not VHD, yet VHD is potentially a greater threat. I'd advise rabbit owners to consult their vet as soon as possible," he told the Bromley Times.

"Vaccination is a quick, simple procedure and is the most effective way to protect against the suffering this dreadful disease causes. There is no cure so prevention really is the only option."

Pet Planet states that the disease first appeared in the UK in 1992.