Rabbit Diseases

There are many different types of rabbit diseases and health problems.

Some rabbit diseases are very well known due to coverage in the press, i.e the rabbit disease VHD.

Each disease has its very own set of symptoms, some similar to others. It is therefore very important for a rabbit owner to have an understanding of some of the more common diseases and health problems as well as a knowledge of the symptoms.

In this article we will take a brief look at a couple of the more common and well known rabbit diseases:

Viral Hemorrhagic Disease

Generally referred to as VHD. It is caused by a calici virus and affects the major organs of a rabbit. It can affect (has a morbidity rate) of between 30% to 100%. If caught the disease has a mortality rate of around 90%, meaning that 90% of infected rabbits die. The disease can take hold and kill a rabbit within a few days. There is no cure at present although there are vaccines available.

Signs that your rabbit may be suffering from VHD are:


spasms


loss of appetite


high temperature


bleeding from the mouth


bleeding from the rectum

Myxomatosis

This disease is transmitted by insects. It can come in different forms with each form having a different level of severity. Myxomatosis can be fatal.

The most common form in the US results in the skin tumours. There are a number of symptoms to look out for:


facial swellings, including red, swollen eyes


discharge coming from the eyes


red, swollen genitals


fever


lack of energy


loss of appetite

If you suspect myxomatosis contact your vet immediately. Unfortunately your vet may recommend that a badly effected rabbit be put down in order to prevent the severe suffering it would go through should it be allowed to live (as well as reduce the likelihood of it being transmitted further).

Ring Worm

A disease caused by fungi. The spores of the fungi can travel through the air leading to infection. Direct contact can also cause infection.

Maintaining a clean rabbit and clean environment can help prevent an onset. If you suspect your rabbit is suffering from ringworm contact your vet who should be able to treat the problem.

Common signs of ring worm are:

fur loss in patches, particularly in the head, legs and feet areas

itchiness. Spotted by your rabbits excessive scratching

dry and crusty skin

There are many other types of rabbit disease and health issues. Having a good rabbit care guide at hand will be a great help. It will enable you to look up the symptoms that your pet bunny is displaying and will also show you what you can do to keep your pet rabbit happy and healthy.