Pets and Puberty: A Guide for Owners and Breeders

These Signs of Myxomatosis in Your Rabbit Demand Immediate Medical Attention

Myxomatosis is a viral infection that poses significant risk to pet rabbits. In fact, it has been estimated that 90% of the Australian domestic rabbit population is susceptible to the disease – significantly more than the 40% susceptibility rate seen in wild rabbits. Usually fatal, the disease is often carried by blood-sucking insects, and any signs of it demand swift attention from a vet.

Here are the top signs that you need to keep an eye out for that signal a vet emergency.

Signs of Parasites

Since rabbits are usually infected with myxomatosis thanks to fleas, ticks, and other such creatures, one of the earliest signs that your rabbit might be in trouble are the same signs that you'll notice if they have a few bites. Pronounced scratching or rubbing against the furniture is a clear indication that your rabbit may have been bitten. If they do seem to be scratching and rubbing more than normal, try running your fingers through their fur to see if you can feel or see any bite marks. If you see them, it's well worth taking your rabbit to the vet. Catching myxomatosis early is always going to be for the best.

Swelling

Myxomatosis causes fluid to accumulate under the skin, leading to a noticeable swelling around the head and face. The lips, nose, and eyes will often be particularly affected, with swelling in these areas giving the rabbit a sleepy appearance; this will get worse until the rabbit's eyes are blocked entirely. Ears may also start to swell, causing them to droop. Less noticeably, the anus and genitalia may appear swollen.

Runny Eyes

One problem with myxomatosis is that it is often initially confused with conjunctivitis; the eyes will frequently start to run during the disease's early stages. However, myxomatosis is also likely to cause a build-up of thick pus that discharges from around the nose and eyes.

Lethargy

Rabbits usually like to run and play during the day, but those that are suffering from myxomatosis will not seem so keen. Of course, your rabbit's activity level is always going to decrease during their lifetime, but any sudden drop in energy levels should be considered a cause for concern.

Myxomatosis is usually fatal, but it can be treated if caught early. Additionally, the disease is extremely uncomfortable for a rabbit to live with, so it's often more humane to put them down before the effects become more pronounced. If you think your pet has been infected, make sure you visit a vet as soon as you can.