Vaccination against deadly rabbit diseases is essential welfare protection for pet rabbits in many countries, though vaccine availability and awareness vary significantly.
Rabbit Hemorrhagic Disease causes hemorrhage in multiple organs leading to rapid death or prolonged bleeding. Myxomatosis causes grotesque swelling of the head, eyes, and genitals with blindness and difficulty breathing that may persist for weeks before death. Both diseases cause immense suffering. Because rabbits are often viewed as low-maintenance pets, their vaccination needs receive less attention than dogs and cats, leaving many vulnerable to preventable and agonizing deaths.