Out of an estimated 0.6 million pet rabbits in the UK, approximately 50% are not vaccinated. Rabbits, just like cats and dogs are at risk of getting infectious diseases which can make them seriously unwell and can even be fatal. Vaccination is the best way to make sure your rabbit is protected against these diseases.
What should my rabbit be vaccinated against?
The 2 main infectious diseases that can affect pet rabbits are:
- Myxomatosis
- Rabbit Haemorrhagic Disease (RHD)
Myxomatosis
Myxomatosis is a disease which affects both wild and pet rabbits and is very common in the UK. It is spread between rabbits by fleas, flies, mites and by direct contact with sick rabbits. The disease causes swelling of the face, blindness, eye discharge and unfortunately is often fatal even with veterinary treatment.
RHD
Rabbit Haemorrhagic Diseases is a disease affecting wild and pet rabbits. It is spread by direct contact with infected rabbits or by contact with people, hutches, bedding or anything else that has touched an infected rabbit or their faeces/urine. RHD causes weakness, collapse, fever and bleeding from the nose. This disease is nearly always fatal.
Vaccination is a highly effective way to protect pet rabbits against these diseases.
But my rabbit doesn’t go anywhere? It never leaves the garden/house! Does it still need vaccinating?
Yes!
Both myxomatosis and RHD are common in wild rabbits in the UK and are highly contagious! If wild rabbits pass through your garden or if you or anyone in your household comes into contact with anything that a wild rabbit has touched, there is a risk that the diseases can be spread to your rabbits.
Which vaccines are available for rabbits? When do they need to be given?
We recommend giving pet rabbits a combined vaccination against myxomatosis and both strains of RHD (Nobivac Myxo RHD Plus). The primary dose of the vaccine can be given from 5 weeks of age. Boosters should be given every year.