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Rabbit owners cherish their furry companions, but the fear of a serious illness like Rabbit Viral Haemorrhagic Disease (RVHD) can be overwhelming. This highly contagious and often fatal disease affects rabbits worldwide, making awareness and prevention essential for keeping your bunny safe and healthy. Let’s explore what you need to know about RVHD, its symptoms, and how to protect your rabbit.
⚠️ What to Watch For
Rabbit Viral Haemorrhagic Disease is caused by a highly contagious calicivirus that spreads rapidly among rabbits. Recognizing the signs early can make all the difference for your pet. Unfortunately, RVHD often progresses quickly and may show no symptoms before sudden death, but here are the common warning signs:
- Lethargy or weakness
- Loss of appetite
- Fever
- Difficulty breathing
- Bloody discharge from the nose or mouth
- Seizures or uncoordinated movements
Some rabbits may survive the initial infection but still require immediate veterinary care to prevent complications. If your rabbit shows any of these symptoms, act quickly.
🔍 Possible Causes
RVHD is caused by Rabbit Haemorrhagic Disease Virus (RHDV), which has two main strains: RHDV1 and RHDV2. Both strains are dangerous, but RHDV2 can infect younger rabbits and even some wild species. The virus spreads through:
- Direct contact with infected rabbits
- Contaminated surfaces, such as food bowls or bedding
- Insects like flies that act as carriers
- Human clothing or shoes after being in contaminated areas
Once introduced into a rabbit population, RVHD can spread quickly, especially in unvaccinated pets. This is why prevention is so critical.
✅ What You Can Do at Home
While RVHD is serious, there are proactive steps you can take to protect your rabbit and reduce the risk of exposure:
- Vaccinate your rabbit as recommended by your veterinarian
- Keep your rabbit indoors or in a secure outdoor enclosure
- Wash your hands and change clothes after visiting other rabbits or outdoor areas
- Disinfect your rabbit’s habitat regularly using a rabbit-safe disinfectant
- Avoid feeding wild plants or allowing contact with wild rabbits
These measures can significantly reduce your rabbit’s risk of contracting the virus. Remember, prevention is always better than cure, especially with such a deadly disease.
💡 When to Call a Vet
If your rabbit shows any symptoms of RVHD, contact a veterinarian immediately. Early intervention may improve their chances of survival, especially in mild cases. Even if your rabbit appears healthy, regular vet check-ups and vaccinations are essential for long-term protection.
Vaccination is the most effective way to safeguard your rabbit. Your vet can recommend the appropriate vaccine schedule based on your rabbit’s age, health, and local risk factors. If you’re unsure whether your rabbit is vaccinated, book a consultation as soon as possible.
FAQs
Q: Can indoor rabbits get RVHD?
A: Yes, indoor rabbits can still contract RVHD through indirect exposure, such as contaminated clothing, shoes, or insects. Vaccination and hygiene are crucial, even for indoor bunnies.
Q: How often should my rabbit be vaccinated?
A: Most vaccines provide protection for 12 months, so annual boosters are recommended. Consult your vet for the best schedule for your rabbit.
Book a $49 online vet consultation at https://www.dialavet.com for fast, expert advice.
