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RVHD in rabbits
Quick answer
**RVHD kills rabbits fast — often with no warning.** Both RVHD-1 and RVHD-2 circulate in the UK. The virus survives on shoes, hay, and hutches for months. Vaccinate all pet rabbits annually (combined with myxomatosis). Sudden death in an unvaccinated rabbit may be RVHD — contact your vet.
Key takeaways
- Rabbit viral haemorrhagic disease (RVHD), also called RHD or RHDV, causes sudden liver failure and bleeding. RVHD-1 and RVHD-2 are both present in the UK. Unvaccinated rabbits often die within hours to days.
- The virus spreads via direct contact, contaminated hutches, hay, clothing, shoes, and insects. It survives months in the environment — indoor rabbits are not safe without vaccination.
- UK vets recommend annual vaccination covering both RVHD-1 and RVHD-2, often combined with myxomatosis in a single injection. Follow your vet's booster schedule exactly.
The full guide
Causes, symptoms, treatment options and when to call your vet — in the complete plain-English guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is RVHD in rabbits?
- Rabbit viral haemorrhagic disease (RVHD), also called RHD or RHDV, causes sudden liver failure and bleeding. RVHD-1 and RVHD-2 are both present in the UK. Unvaccinated rabbits often die within hours to days.
- How do rabbits catch RVHD?
- The virus spreads via direct contact, contaminated hutches, hay, clothing, shoes, and insects. It survives months in the environment — indoor rabbits are not safe without vaccination.
- How often should rabbits be vaccinated against RVHD?
- UK vets recommend annual vaccination covering both RVHD-1 and RVHD-2, often combined with myxomatosis in a single injection. Follow your vet's booster schedule exactly.