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Aileen · Posted: Mon Mar 13, 2006 6:32 pm Post subject: Myxomatosos and VHD

Myxomatosis and VHD ( Viral Haemorrhagic Disease )

Just like your cat or dog, your rabbit needs vaccinating against life threatening conditions. This is a responsibility you have not only to your own animal, but others who may live nearby. In the rabbit world we vaccinate against Myxomatosis and VHD. Underlined are the reasons why.

Myxomatosis
Myxomatosis is a member of the pox family. A killer, it was released deliberately in Australia to cull the wild rabbit population who were considered pest to the wide farming community there. It was succesful. Few rabbits survive Myxi. France took Australia's lead and unleashed the virus upon their wild rabbit community. From there it was a short leap to the UK and domestic pets. This disease leaves few survivors. It exists unchecked amongst our native rabbits and is passed by direct contact and insects to our pet rabbits. Please vaccinate you rabbit and help protect the bunny communty.

Symptoms
Discharge from the eyes, causing them to shut completely after a few days, along with swelling of the head and cyst like lumps. Occasionally, swelling of the genitals. Your rabbit will have difficulty eating, drinking and when respiratory problems kick in, breathing. Death is almost innevitable. PLEASE vaccinate.

Prevention
Your vet can vaccinate against myxomatosis from 6 weeks of age. Your rabbit will then require an annual booster to keep him covered. If you live in certain rural 'at risk' areas, you will be advised to get the booster every 6 months. Even if you have vaccinated there is still a small risk of your rabbit contracting myxomatosis; however, a vaccinated rabbit will have the anti bodies to fight the disease and stands a greatly improved chance of recovery.

VHD
VHD was first reported in the UK in 1992. A strong and virulent virus, it again runs unchecked through the wild rabbit population and can infect pet rabbits through many ways: Direct contact with an infected rabbit, insects and birds, on the wind, on your feet if you have been walking in an infected area, contaminated hay, someone handling your rabbit after handling their own infected rabbit.. the list goes on. The virus is a tough one, surviving months without a host, but it can be prevented.

Symptoms
Symptoms are rapid and can include fever, fits, refusal of food, breathing difficulties, bleeding from the nose..and sometimes no symptoms at all. Death usually occurs within 36 hours of the onset of symptoms.

Prevention
Please have your rabbit vaccinated against VHD. He will require an annual booster to keep his protection 'up to speed'. The vaccine can be given from 10 weeks of age, and shouldn't be given within 2 weeks of the myxomatosis vaccine. Keep your rabbits living areas clean and free from insects and vermin. Remember that the virus can live for months without a host so if you lose a rabbit to VHD, destroy all bedding, food bowls, water bottles, hutch etc. This will help to protect the bunny community around you.

Special note to house rabbit owners:
Both myxomatosis and VHD can very easily travel indoors by various means. Please don't be lulled into a false sense of security because your rabbit doesn't go outside; all pet rabbits should be vaccinated.

[b]This was written by Mandy to help members[/b]