With the onset of warmer spring weather, now is the time to protect your rabbit from the risk of infectious diseases-specifically Myxomatosis and Viral Haemorrhagic Disease. All rabbits are at risk from these diseases, even indoor ones.
Myxomatosis is a very distressing viral disease affecting wild and domesticated rabbits. It is spread by blood sucking insects such as fleas and mosquitoes. The virus then multiplies, causing puffy swellings of the eyes, usually leading to blindness. Affected rabbits become very ill, often suffering from pneumonia and most will die.
Viral Haemorrhagic Disease is another highly contagious and deadly, viral disease. It is spread by direct contact between rabbits or by a contaminated environment and sometimes inadvertently by humans. Symptoms include loss of appetite, lethargy, nose bleeds and sudden death.
Happily you can now protect your rabbit with one simple annual vaccination. Don't take the risk, make sure your rabbit is protected. To find out more why not come along to your local branch during Rabbit Awareness Week 10th-18th May, where we are offering free Healthy Hopper checks. Free Healthy Hopper packs will also be available at your appointment. Don't forget you also need to protect your rabbits against Flystrike and E.Cuniculi.
