Myxomatosis causes prolonged suffering in domestic rabbits and is endemic in wild rabbit populations near most areas of the UK, making vaccination of companion rabbits an essential welfare protection.
Myxomatosis represents one of the most severe and prolonged welfare harms that can befall a domestic rabbit. The course of disease over 10-14 days involves progressive facial and genital swelling, blindness from conjunctivitis, respiratory distress, and severe malaise. Rabbits affected by myxomatosis should be euthanised promptly by a veterinarian to prevent prolonged suffering. For companion rabbits, vaccination is the single most important welfare protection against this devastating disease. Outdoor rabbits, or those with outdoor access, are at highest risk and should be vaccinated most frequently. Wild rabbit populations continue to experience periodic devastating outbreaks.