Reading Vets Urge Rabbit Owners to Vaccinate Against a New Strain of Virus

Easipetcare vets in Reading are encouraging pet owners to protect their rabbits against a new strain of Rabbit Haemorrhagic Disease (RHD), which is caused by a virus. There is no cure for the virus, which is almost always fatal, so vaccination offers the only way to protect much loved pets. The veterinary practice, which aims to provide high quality care at affordable prices, is particularly worried about the rise of a second strain of the virus.

The RHD virus has been present in the UK for years and is prevented by routine vaccination. However, a newer strain of the virus (RHD-2), first reported in 2015, requires an additional vaccination to stop rabbits catching the disease. Easipetcare Reading is advising owners of pet rabbits to make sure their rabbits are protected. They have added this second vaccination to their standard rabbit health plan to give owners peace of mind.

The practice wants to stress that the signs of illness caused by RHD viruses are difficult to spot. The disease causes internal bleeding and the course is usually rapid, with rabbits suddenly appearing seriously unwell or even found dead. Other symptoms are not specific to the virus, with rabbits often generally unwell. Things owners can watch out for include loss of appetite, fever, lethargy, nervous spasms, coma, or unexplained bleeding for example from the nose or bottom. The vet team say that even if affected rabbits are brought in and given prompt supportive treatment, the chance of survival is slim. However, the good news is the vaccinations are very effective at preventing infection.

Easipetcare Reading’s Head of Practice, Kirsten Mitchell, says “This disease can be devastating for pet owners who often find their beloved rabbits seriously unwell. There is no cure, which is why we‘re passionate about including the preventative vaccine in our rabbit health plan, so there‘s an affordable solution for rabbit owners. The team at the practice have worked hard raising awareness, and we are committed to helping owners in the area protect the health and welfare of their rabbits.“

Rabbits don‘t even have to meet another rabbit to become infected. Infected rabbits can ‘shed‘ highly infectious virus before they become ill and virus particles can then be carried on the wind, the soles of shoes, car tyres, other pets‘ feet, wildlife (including birds), clothing or hay bales, which can then infect other rabbits.

Kirsten says “When owners have experienced the unexplained sudden death of a rabbit we appreciate that it‘s often a very difficult time, but encourage them to call us so we can advise on how to effectively clean the rabbit‘s living space to ensure it is safe for other rabbits in the area, and prior to bringing a new rabbit into the home.“

If you are concerned your rabbit may be have been affected by RHD, or to find out more about disease prevention and rabbit healthcare advice, please call Easipetcare Reading on 01189 699526, visit the website www.easipetcare.com, or bring your pet along to the practice at 106 Crockhamwell Road, Woodley, Reading, RG5 3JY where walk-in appointments are available.