---
title: "Myxomatosis in Rabbits UK"
description: "Myxomatosis is a deadly viral disease of UK rabbits spread by fleas and mosquitoes. Learn symptoms, annual vaccination, and how to protect outdoor rabbits."
url: "https://pethealth.org.uk/health/rabbit-myxomatosis-uk"
canonical: "https://pethealth.org.uk/health/rabbit-myxomatosis-uk"
date_published: "2026-06-25"
date_modified: "2026-06-25"
source: "PETHEALTH+"
---

# Myxomatosis in Rabbits UK

**Myxomatosis kills unvaccinated UK rabbits.** The virus spreads via fleas, mosquitoes, and direct contact. Signs include swollen eyes and face, fever, and lethargy. Vaccinate annually and use vet-approved flea control. If you suspect myxomatosis, isolate the rabbit and phone your vet immediately.

## What is myxomatosis?

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.

## Symptoms of myxomatosis

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.

## Can myxomatosis be treated?

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.

## Vaccination — essential UK protection

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.

## Reducing exposure risk

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](/health/rabbit-flystrike-prevention-uk).

## What to do if you suspect myxomatosis

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.

## FAQs

### What is myxomatosis in rabbits?

Myxomatosis is a viral disease causing swelling around the eyes and face, fever, and often death. It spreads via biting insects — fleas, mosquitoes, and mites — and between rabbits in close contact.

### Can myxomatosis be treated?

There is no cure. Supportive vet care may help mild cases, but most unvaccinated rabbits die. Vaccination is the main protection — combined vaccines also cover RVHD.

### How often do rabbits need myxomatosis vaccination in the UK?

Most UK vets recommend annual vaccination against myxomatosis and RVHD. Some products require a single injection; others need a primary course then yearly boosters — follow your vet's schedule.

### Can indoor rabbits get myxomatosis?

Yes, though risk is lower. Biting insects can enter homes, and the virus can be carried on clothing or hay from outdoor sources. Indoor rabbits should still be vaccinated.

## Sources

- [RWAF — Myxomatosis](https://rabbitwelfare.co.uk)
- [RSPCA — Rabbit vaccinations](https://www.rspca.org.uk/adviceandwelfare/pets)
- [PDSA — Rabbit vaccinations](https://www.pdsa.org.uk/pet-help-and-advice/pet-health-hub)
- [BVA — Rabbit welfare](https://www.bva.co.uk)

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Last modified: 2026-06-25