rabbits and maggots

Question
Luke is 6-7 year-old 4-H Grand Champion. He lives in outside , above-ground hutch. We live in usually, very dry, West Texas. We have had too much rain already. My daughter found Luke with (ugh) maggots, just where you don't want to find them.

She discovered them maybe five days ago. His poor bottom is very red, but not raw. We have washed him and cage bottom (net-like).

Sunday, at church, I met a boy whose rabbit had died after three days of maggots.

I didn't realize how long rabbits might live. We thought Luke was near the end of his days.

Is it too late? Can you tell me signs that indicate what stage he might be in?

We live 35 miles from nearest vet. Office visit is $35. If it is too late, I hate to make the trip..gas being what it is....not wanting to be too crass, but wanting to be a little pragmatic.

I have learned much from your answers. I imagine there will be many sick bunnies this year in Texas....so much rain...flies had never been an issue before.

Thank you, (The Rev.) Leslie Gregory.  

Answer
Dear Rev Leslie,

As long as you got all the maggots off the bunny, and he's acting fine and eating well at this point, he is probably not in danger of imminent death.  At his age, he's not old in the least:  we have bunnies who are in their teens!

Keep a very close eye on the wounded area, and keep it very clean and dry with dilute betadine washes.  It would not be a bad idea to have him checked by a vet, even if the area is starting to heal, since maggot-infested areas can become infected even after the maggots are gone.  He may need antibiotics or further debridement of the affected area.

This isn't a waste of your time or money.  Luke has plenty of lifespan left, and I hope he never has a bad experience like this again!  You might want to read this, for prevention:

http://www.rabbit.org/faq/sections/outdoors.html

Topical application of Revolution (selamectin) may help prevent a full-blown maggot infestation.  Keeping him dry and clean, including with dry powder baths, as described here:

www.bio.miami.edu/hare/buttbath.html

will also help, as will clipping the fur just above his tail where moisture can collect and make the skin irritated and attractive to flies.

I hope this helps, and that Luke will be fine!

Dana