Myxomatosis
is caused by the myxoma virus, a poxvirus spread between rabbits by
close contact and biting insects such as fleas and mosquitoes.
The
virus causes swelling and discharge from the eyes, nose and anogenital
region of infected rabbits. Most rabbits die within 10-14 days of
infection however highly virulent strains of the myxoma virus may cause
death before the usual signs of infection have appeared.
Myxomatosis was introduced to Australia in 1950
to reduce pest rabbit numbers. The virus initially reduced the wild
rabbit population by 95% but since then resistance to the virus has
increased and less deadly strains of the virus have emerged.
How to protect your rabbit from myxoma virus
Pet
rabbits do not possess any resistance to myxomatosis and mortality rates
are between 96-100%. With such a poor prognosis treatment is not
usually recommended.
There
are two vaccinations against myxomatosis, however these are not
available in Australia. Thus the only way to prevent infection is to
protect your pet rabbits from biting insects such as fleas and
mosquitoes. Put mosquito netting around your rabbit’s hutch or keep
your rabbits indoors.
If your rabbits are allowed to exercise outside
avoid letting them out in the early morning or late afternoon when more
mosquitoes are more numerous. You can use Revolution (Selamectin) or
Advantage (Imidocloprid) for flea prevention, but you must check first
with your vet for dosages. Do not use Frontline (Fipronil) as this has
been associated with severe adverse reactions in rabbits.
What to do if your rabbit is infected
If your pet rabbit does develop myxomatosis, the
kindest thing to do is to have it euthanased. Treatment is rarely
successful, even if commenced early in the infection and the course of
disease is very painful and stressful.
Thoroughly disinfect your rabbit
hutch, water bottles and food bowls with household bleach, rinsing it
off so that it cannot be ingested by any other rabbits.
Bringing a new
rabbit home is not recommended for at least four months after a case of
myxomatosis as the virus is able to survive in the environment for some
time.
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