Rabbits under threat from new disease

Rabbits are the most neglected pets in the u.k. and now they are under more threat from a new deadly disease.  It’s a viral haemorrhage illness which is a variant of an existing one.  The vaccine for the original strain doesn’t offer protection against the new type which can cause sudden death with bleeding.   It’s a devastating illness although sometimes the affected rabbit will survive for three to nine days.  Rabbits who show any signs of being unwell should be kept in isolation until the all clear is given by the vet.

There is already a vaccine for the original strain but it doesn’t offer any protection from the new variant.  You have to obtain the new vaccine but there have been supply issues and it’s only just becoming available.   The new strain of Viral Haemoragice Disease is known as RVHD 2 and the advice from the British Veterinary Association is to speak to your vet about vaccination before your pets show any sign of illness.  If this happens they will need urgent veterinary attention butt will be too late  for vaccination then.