Why are vaccinations important?
There are a number of highly infectious diseases that can affect your pet. Many of these diseases have no effective treatment and in the majority of cases prove fatal for unvaccinated rabbits..
However, for many of these conditions there is a simple protection in the form of vaccination and regular annual boosters, so we urge you to ensure that your pet is always up to date with the recommended protection.
What diseases do we vaccinate against?
Myxomatosis
Myxomatosis or ‘myxo’ is a highly contagious and deadly disease which can cause weakness, loss of appetite, swelling of the eyes and conjunctivitis which leads to blindness. Most unvaccinated rabbits will die from the disease; a vaccinated rabbit will likely survive with intensive nursing care. The disease is spread by contact with infected rabbits and through blood-sucking insects (like fleas or midges).
Viral Haemorrhagic Disease (VHD 1 and VHD 2)
Viral haemorrhagic disease is an incredibly contagious disease which has two strains – VHD 1 and VHD 2. Both strains are deadly to unvaccinated rabbits, and can cause bleeding from the nose, spasms and sudden death. Often there are no symptoms and a rabbit may die suddenly with no known cause. The disease is spread very easily via direct contact with infected rabbits and their faeces or urine. It can also be spread indirectly through hands, hay or second hand equipment (bowls, hutches, toys etc) that have come into contact with infected rabbits.
In 2025 a new strain of VHD 2 began to spread in Europe, this new strain is highly virulent and can be fatal.
When should I vaccinate my rabbit?
Rabbits can be vaccinated from 5 weeks of age. We follow The Rabbit Welfare Association’s guidelines for vaccines which recommends a 3-in-1 vaccine that protects against Myxomatosis, VHD1 and some strains of VHD2 plus an additional vaccine to protect against the new strain of VHD 2. These vaccines need to be given at least 2 weeks apart and repeated annually.
Call us on 01435 864422 to book an appointment today!
