QuestionIs it possible for rabbits to become infected with Baylisascaris procyonis in carefully dried hay? If so, how common is this infection and is there any way to prevent it?
AnswerDear Wendy,
If raccoons have left waste in the hay, it is possible for rabbits to be infected. I have not heard of this to be a common problem in rabbits, and in fact know of only one case of Baylisascaris confirmed in a rabbit living with anyone I knew (online). But there could be many undiagnosed cases, for all we know.
I can't think it would be easily preventable. But I also doubt that raccoons frequent hay fields, in general. Do you have reason to suspect that this has happened to any of your rabbits?
Dana