Companion Animals

Myxomatosis in Rabbits: Prevention and Welfare

Myxomatosis is a severe viral disease of domestic and wild rabbits spread by insect vectors, causing extreme suffering and almost invariable death without vaccination.

Key Facts

Welfare Considerations

Myxomatosis causes prolonged and extreme suffering. Affected rabbits become blind, unable to eat, and distressed over a course of 10-14 days. Vaccination is the only effective prevention. Unvaccinated domestic rabbits are at serious risk from wild rabbit contact or insect vectors. Euthanasia is often the kindest option for affected animals.

What You Can Do