Companion Animal Welfare

Rabbit Flystrike Comprehensive Prevention

Flystrike (myiasis) is a rapidly fatal condition in rabbits requiring urgent prevention strategies, particularly in warmer months.

Key Facts

Blowflies lay eggs on soiled or moist fur; maggots hatch within 12 hours and cause tissue destruction
Rabbits with obesity, dental disease, or arthritis struggle to groom and are highest risk
Prevention includes twice-daily inspection, clean bedding, fly screens, and preventative products
Rearguard and similar products provide 8-10 weeks protection in susceptible rabbits
Flystrike is most common June-October but can occur year-round in warm climates

Welfare Considerations

Flystrike causes extreme suffering and death within days; prevention through daily inspection and hygiene is straightforward and far preferable to treatment.

What You Can Do

Check your rabbit's rear end daily in warm months
Keep enclosures clean and dry to remove attractive fly breeding sites
Consult your vet about preventative treatments for at-risk rabbits