Myxomatosis in Rabbits UK — Symptoms, Vaccination & Prevention

According to the RWAF and RSPCA, myxomatosis is a viral disease caused by a poxvirus that affects wild and pet rabbits across the UK. It remains one of the most serious threats to rabbit welfare in Britain.

The virus spreads through:

• Biting insects — fleas, mosquitoes, midges, and mites (most common route)
• Direct contact with infected rabbits
• Contaminated objects — hutches, bowls, and bedding (less common)

Wild rabbit populations harbour the virus, so even garden-kept pets are at risk.

According to the RWAF, signs typically develop 5–14 days after exposure and may include:

• Swollen eyelids and face — classic "puffy" appearance
• Swollen genitals and ears
• Purulent (pus-filled) eye and nose discharge
• Lethargy and loss of appetite
• High fever, then low body temperature as disease progresses
• Difficulty breathing in advanced cases
• Skin nodules (myxoma lumps) in some forms

Severity varies. Some vaccinated rabbits develop milder signs and recover with vet support. Unvaccinated rabbits usually die within 10–14 days — often after significant suffering.

There is no specific antiviral cure. According to PDSA, treatment is supportive only:

• Fluids and syringe feeding
• Pain relief
• Antibiotics for secondary infections
• Eye cleaning and wound care

Euthanasia is often the kindest option for severely affected unvaccinated rabbits. Early vet assessment is essential — do not attempt home treatment alone.

According to the BVA and RWAF, annual vaccination is the cornerstone of myxomatosis prevention for UK pet rabbits.

Modern UK vaccines typically combine myxomatosis and RVHD (rabbit viral haemorrhagic disease) protection in one or two injections. Your vet will advise on:

• Primary course for young rabbits (often from 5–7 weeks, depending on product)
• Annual boosters — usually every 12 months
• Vaccination during stable health — not when already ill

Vaccination does not guarantee complete immunity but dramatically reduces severity and death rates. It is considered essential welfare for all UK pet rabbits, indoor and outdoor.

Alongside vaccination, the RWAF recommends:

• Vet-approved flea control formulated for rabbits — never use dog or cat products without vet advice
• Mosquito-proof hutches — fine mesh over runs in summer evenings
• Bring rabbits indoors at dawn and dusk when insects are most active
• Avoid contact with wild rabbits and their droppings
• Quarantine new rabbits for at least two weeks before bonding
• Disinfect hutches when moving rabbits or after illness

Flystrike prevention and good hygiene also reduce insect attraction — see Rabbit flystrike prevention UK.

1. Phone your rabbit-savvy vet immediately
2. Isolate the affected rabbit from companions
3. Do not handle other rabbits without washing hands and changing clothes
4. Inform your vet of vaccination status and outdoor access

Confirmed or suspected cases should be reported so companions can be checked and boosters reviewed.