Infectious Diseases and Vaccinations in Rabbits Flashcards
What are the two diseases rabbits are vaccinated against?
Myxomatosis
Haemorrhagic Viral Disease
What is myxomatosis?
A severe viral disease only affecting rabbits.
How often are rabbits vaccinated against myxomatosis?
Annually starting at the age of 5 weeks
What are the signs and symptoms for myxomatosis?
Swelling, redness and ulcers around the eyes, nose and genitals
Runny nose
Milky eye discharge
Blindness caused by inflammation of the eye
Breathing problems
Loss of appetite
Lack of energy
How long does it take for symptoms to appear after exposure?
One to three weeks
What is the treatment for myxomatosis?
Supportive treatment
Euthanasia is common in most cases
How is myxomatosis spread?
Through blood-sucking parasites, direct contact and fomites
What is haemorrhagic viral disease?
A severe viral disease that attacks the internal organs causing internal bleeding. There are two types of the disease: RHD1 and RHD2.
What is RHD1?
RHD1 causes sudden illness and death in most cases within two days of contracting the disease.
What is RHD2?
RHD2 develops slowly and often causes death within 1-2 weeks.
What are the signs and symptoms of haemorrhagic viral disease?
Blood around the nose, mouth and anus
Lethargy
Loss of appetite
Pyrexia
Sudden death
What is the treatment for haemorrhagic viral disease?
Supportive treatment
Euthanasia is often the kindest option if symptoms are severe
How is haemorrhagic viral disease spread?
Through blood-sucking parasites, direct contact and fomites
