RABBITTING ON - Rabbit Facts Annual Health Checks & Vaccination
THE ANNUAL HEALTH CHECK
The Annual Health Check is important for all rabbits. Rabbits
are a 'prey species' and therefore hide the signs of illness as
part of their survival strategy. This visit is a good time to
discuss any concerns you may have about your rabbit and how to
look after it.
Your rabbit will receive a thorough check over,
including teeth- front and back- weighed (obesity is a common
problem) and given vaccinations as appropriate.
VACCINATIONS
Myxomatosis:- Many of you will have seen a wild rabbit
with myxomatosis. They have large swellings around the eyes, ears
and anus. These make it difficult for the rabbit to eat, see and
hear so they don't run away when approached. It can take about
12 days for the affected rabbit to die.
Intensive care and medical treatment means that now some rabbits
will survive, but many still die from this virus.
Myxomatosis is transmitted by biting insects eg: fleas and mosquitoes,
so it is important to protect both indoor and outdoor rabbits.
Rabbits can be vaccinated from 6 weeks of age. In most circumstances
an annual vaccination given in spring (April or May) will be enough
to protect your rabbit. However their immunity will decrease over
the year and in some high risk situations a 6-monthly vaccination
is recommended.
Additionally using a routine flea control on your bunny and insect
control in your house (which must be safe for rabbits) will also
help prevent the spread of myxomatosis by killing the insects
themselves.
Viral
Haemorrhagic Disease Any rabbit over 6 weeks of age can catch this virus.
It can be transmitted on clothes and footwear, but also by birds
and insects, so even house rabbits can be at risk. There is no
effective treatment here and most of the rabbits that catch this
disease will die very rapidly, sometimes within a few hours.
Vaccinations
can be given form 10 weeks old. This will protect your bunny for
the next 12 months. An annual booster vaccination is needed to
protect your rabbit through its life.
The vaccinations for myxomatosis and viral haemorrhagic disease
are given 2 weeks apart
