Myxomatosis is a devastating viral disease of rabbits that causes severe, prolonged suffering and near-100% mortality in unvaccinated animals.
Myxomatosis in unvaccinated rabbits causes one of the most distressing disease courses of any pet animal illness. The swelling progresses to seal the eyes and obstruct breathing. Rabbits become lethargic, stop eating, and suffer for up to two weeks. Secondary bacterial infections compound the suffering. Euthanasia of affected unvaccinated rabbits is typically required on welfare grounds. The disease is spread by biting insects including fleas and mosquitoes, meaning outdoor rabbits are at highest risk but indoor rabbits can also be affected. The combined vaccination against myxomatosis and RHD1 and RHD2 is effective, safe, and available annually. RHD2, a newly emerged strain, is rapidly lethal and also requires specific vaccination.