Daventry Vets answer: Should I vaccinate my rabbit?
March 21, 2024
Rabbits are adorable companions, but like all pets, they are susceptible to certain diseases that can impact their wellbeing. According to Daventry Vets, the most effective ways to protect your furry friend is through vaccination.
In this article, we’ll explore the significance of rabbit vaccination, the common diseases they are at risk of, and why it’s essential to book a rabbit vaccination appointment with our veterinary practice in Daventry right away if your rabbit is overdue or hasn’t had one yet.
Book a Rabbit Vaccination today
Why vaccinate your rabbit
The team at Daventry Vets wholeheartedly agree that rabbit vaccinations are a vital aspect of responsible ownership, providing several benefits for your furry friend:
- Disease Prevention: Vaccination helps protect rabbits from infectious diseases that can be challenging and often impossible to treat once contracted.
- Longevity & Quality of Life: By preventing diseases, rabbit vaccinations contribute to a longer and healthier life for your rabbit.
- Community Health: Vaccinating your rabbit not only safeguards their health but also helps prevent the spread of diseases within the rabbit community in Northamptonshire and beyond.
- Peace of Mind: Knowing that your rabbit is protected against common diseases brings peace of mind, allowing you to enjoy your bond with your pet without unnecessary worry.
- Cost Effective: Vaccinations are also the most cost-effective approach to your rabbit’s healthcare as disease prevention often costs less than treating illnesses and their potential complications.
Common rabbit diseases & vaccination guidelines
At Daventry Vets, our vets know only too well the devastating prognosis of these two killer diseases:
Myxomatosis:
Myxomatosis is a viral disease transmitted by blood sucking insects including fleas and mosquitoes. It can also be transmitted by direct contact and contaminated objects. It causes swelling and discharge around the eyes, nose, and genitals, leading to severe illness and is usually fatal. Vaccination against myxomatosis is essential for all pet rabbits indoor or outdoor. Myxomatosis only affects rabbits and cannot be passed onto other pets or humans.
Rabbit Viral Haemorrhagic Disease (RVHD):
RVHD is a highly contagious and often fatal viral infection that affects the liver and other organs. There are two strains of RVHD – RVHD1 and RVHD2. RVHD 2 is a more recent strained is a risk to pet rabbits because it spreads so easily, via insects, in the wind, direct contact or on peoples hands and clothes. Vaccination against both strains is recommended to ensure comprehensive protection.
Don’t delay, book a rabbit vaccination today.
When to vaccinate your rabbit
- A combined vaccine for myxomatosis and both strains of viral haemorrhagic disease is available.
- Initial Vaccination: Rabbits can be vaccinated against myxomatosis and RVHD from 5 weeks of age, immunity develops within 3 weeks after the vaccine.
- Booster Vaccinations: After the initial vaccination, rabbits require annual booster vaccinations to maintain immunity. ask our Daventry team to help you ensure your rabbit stays up-to-date with vaccinations.
Book a Rabbit Vaccination appointment
To help ensure your adorable companion enjoys a happy, healthy, and hop-filled life, protect them against these deadly contagious diseases now. Book a rabbit vaccination appointment with our veterinary practice in Drayton Fields, Daventry.
