You’ve got a lovely pet rabbit but did you know there is just as much care required to look after a rabbit as there is for a dog or cat? Yes, they do require vaccinations just like your pet dog and we will go through these below. 

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Your pet rabbit needs 3 types of vaccines to be given. These may be in 2 injections a few weeks apart or in 1 injection depending upon your vet’s stock and the age of your rabbit. We would advise these to be given even if your rabbit is kept inside, as these diseases can be fatal so it’s important to protect your lovely rabbit. 

Myxomatosis 

This disease is passed by mosquitoes and fleas biting an infected rabbit and then passing it to others. It is found in both wild and pet rabbits. It can also be passed rabbit to rabbit very easily, so it is important to watch all of your rabbits.

The signs of this disease are swellings that can be around the eyes, muzzle and genitalia. These are red and large and can progress to scabs and discharge. Rabbits will feel unwell and go off their food, they may be quieter than normal and have a temperature. If they do not eat this can then cause gut problems and can be fatal. Vaccinated rabbits can still get myxomatosis, but it will be less severe. 

RHD 1 & 2 

This stands for rabbit viral haemorrhagic disease 1 and 2. Vaccination for type 1 has been around for quite a while now, whereas type 2 only came in from Europe more recently. This has led to newer vaccines to include both variants.

Type 1 signs can be bleeding from the mouth or nose or other openings. But, even more worryingly, they can cause internal bleeding and death within 48 hours – sometimes without any external signs. Type 2 is often slower but can cause the same signs and eventual death after a number of days. 

Type 1 was considered the most common type until the last few years. Now, type 2 has become more prominent and often more deadly. They are both spread by an infected rabbit coughing, passing urine or stools and another coming in contact with the infected material. Alternatively, the viruses can be spread by insect bites, but they can also live in the environment for some time. This means transfer on shoes or even birds feet can be a potential risk to your rabbit. 

When to vaccinate? 

Rabbits can be vaccinated from 5 weeks of age. Your vet will be able to advise on the best protocol for your rabbit to include all vaccines. They should be vaccinated every year as protection does not last any longer.  

Do the vaccines give full protection? 

Sadly no vaccine is a hundred percent effective. But if you vaccinate, it can minimise the chance of them getting the disease but also it reduces the severity of the disease. This means the signs will be less severe and then supportive care can be given. 

Is there any treatment for these diseases?

Unfortunately only supportive care is available for them, such as fluids, pain relief and assisted feeding. With both viral haemorrhagic disease and myxomatosis in unvaccinated rabbits it is likely to be fatal, so often euthanasia is advised. 

What else can be done to help?

Making sure rabbit enclosures are secure to prevent birds and rodents getting in them is important, along with good hygiene. But sadly these measures alone will not prevent the diseases. 

Remember, once you’ve collected your new rabbit, give your vet a call to book in for vaccinations and discuss when these will be done and how many injections are involved.  If you do ‘t yet have a vet for your new friend – take a look here to find a good one locally.

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