rabbit

Imminently there will be a release of RHVD virus in the Wollongong area.

Both RHVD and myxomatosis are fatal diseases of rabbits that are used to control wild populations of rabbits. After the wet year we've had the rabbit population has exploded and council is working with the department of primary industries to control these populations by releasing RHVD virus. 

To protect your rabbit against RHDV you need to have your rabbit's vaccination current.

Myxomatosis is a pox virus that affects rabbits. It was first introduced to Australia in 1950 to reduce the feral rabbit population. Initially it was rapidly fatal with very few survivors, however resistance has developed in the feral rabbit population and less deadly strain have emerged, allowing rabbit numbers to partly recover.

A lot of pet health revolves around feeding and this is especially the case for rabbits. While rabbits have a few breed related disorders (dwarfs can have altered head shape resulting in dental issues), infectious diseases (calicivirus and myxomatosis ) and husbandry issues (flystrike and heat stroke for example), alot of the problems we see are directly or indirectly related to the food they eat.

Rabbits are an increasingly common pet in Australia, along with their teddy bear looks, they have a wide spectrum of personalities and eccentricities that endear them to their owners. While not requiring routine intestinal worming, like dogs and cats, they can be affected by a number of external parasites. Outside rabbits are more prone to parasites however even inside bunnies are not immune, as the little critters often hitchhike on feed and bedding.

What is Myxomatosis?

Myxomatosis is a caused by a virus that infects rabbits only. It is used for control of the feral rabbit population but can also affect pet rabbits. Infection is almost always fatal, and there is no vaccination available in Australia.

Infected rabbits developing swelling in the skin surrounding the eyes, on the ears and on the genitals. Eventually they will stop eating and then die from starvation.

Rabbit Calicivirus, also known as Rabbit Haemorrhagic Disease Virus (RHDV), is a viral disease first released in Australia in 1996, in an effort to control feral rabbits. There are a number of different strains in Australia.  A new strain, RHDV1 K5, is to be released in the Illawarra and over 600 sites across Australia in early March. This timing corresponds with peak feral rabbit numbers.

How does it spread?

The virus is spread by rabbit to rabbit contact, flies and fleas, as well as contaminated clothes and environment.

The most common cause of dandruff in rabbits is fur mites also known as walking dandruff or Cheylettiella. 

The cause

This is caused by mites which live in the fur of the animal. The mites cause itchiness and irritate the skin which then starts to produce dandruff. Sometimes clumps of hair will fall out or be pulled out due to irritation.

Heat stroke (hyperthermia)

Heat stroke or hyperthermia is a really serious, potentially fatal condition that should be taken really seriously. The body is made to run at a safe temperature and if overheats the internal organs basically cook. Often the effects of excessive heat exposure aren't obvious immediately.

For example:

Calicivirus occurs in the Wollongong area from time to time. There are often controlled releases done to control the wild rabbit population.  

Calicicirus is a viral disease of rabbits that causes them to die very quickly.  It's spread by direct contact or mosquitoes so: