Flystrike is a rapidly fatal condition in rabbits caused by fly larvae and represents a critical welfare emergency requiring prevention and immediate response.
Flystrike causes extreme suffering - larvae produce tissue-destroying enzymes and the sensation of being eaten alive is one of the worst welfare emergencies in companion animal medicine. Prevention is straightforward but requires vigilance, especially in warm weather. Daily bottom checks take only moments and can save a rabbit's life. Any rabbit found with maggots requires emergency veterinary care immediately - delay means death or severe suffering.