Rabbits in the UK are at risk of several highly infectious and potentially fatal diseases. Fortunately, pet rabbits can be vaccinated against two of the most common diseases - myxomatosis and rabbit viral haemorrhagic disease (VHD or RHD).

Vaccines are given by injection into the rabbit’s skin and work by training the white blood cells to recognise and attack the viruses contained in the vaccine. It might only be two diseases, but here's what you need to know about rabbit vaccinations.

Do Rabbits Need Vaccines?

Vets recommend that rabbits, including house rabbits, are vaccinated to help protect them from deadly diseases. Do rabbits need vaccinations if they never go outside? Yes, they’re still at risk of infection due to the route of transmission. For example, some diseases are transmitted by indirect contact such as insects that may enter your home without you even knowing.

Rabbits can catch these diseases without contact with infected rabbits, so an unvaccinated rabbit is at risk. That's why vets recommend vaccinating rabbits as soon as possible.

What Vaccinations do Rabbits Need?

Rabbits should be vaccinated against Myxomatosis and the two strains of Rabbit Viral Haemorrhagic Disease (RHD-1 and RHD-2).

Combined vaccines are available in the UK, which means they cover more than one disease. For rabbits, there is now a triple combined vaccine (Myxo-RHD PLUS) that protects against myxomatosis, RHD-1 and RHD-2, which can be given from 5 weeks of age.

Previously two vaccines where needed to provide full coverage. If your rabbit has received these in the past, they can be switched to the triple combined. However, Myxo-RHD PLUS is not recommended in pregnant does or bucks intended for breeding. Instead, Nobivac Myxo-RHD will be given to protect against myxomatosis and RHD-1 and then a separate RHD-2 vaccine will be given 2 weeks later.

More about Myxomatosis

Myxomatosis is a disease caused by the myxoma virus. It only affects rabbits and will cause severe swelling of the lips, eyelids and genitals. Affected wild rabbits usually fall victim to predators or are hit by cars as their vision is affected.

It’s possible for pet rabbits to recover from the condition with very intensive nursing, but in most cases, the kindest option is euthanasia. The virus is transmitted by insects, particularly rabbit fleas, but also flies. Cats can become infected with rabbit fleas, so even house rabbits are at risk.

More about Rabbit Viral Haemorrhagic Disease?

Rabbit viral haemorrhagic disease is a viral condition that only affects rabbits. It’s highly contagious and can be transmitted from rabbit to rabbit, or on contaminated items like equipment, clothing or feed. Birds, rodents and insect can carry the virus and infect rabbits, which is usually how a pet rabbit would become infected.

RHD-1 is nearly always fatal as it causes massive bleeding (haemorrhage) from the internal organs. RHD-2 is fatal in around 7-20% of cases, but there’s a higher chance of it spreading to other rabbits. Affected rabbits may appear off-colour or show no signs at all.

Are there any Side Effects?

Your rabbit may seem “off colour” following the vaccination, and the injection site may be tender and swollen. These symptoms usually only last a couple of days, so speak to your vet if they persist or you have any other concerns.

Some rabbits may have an injection site reaction, which will cause fur loss, skin redness, and tenderness. They may also go off their food, become lethargic, or have an increased temperature. Your rabbit will need to see a vet if it displays any of these symptoms.

If a rabbit is ill or stressed when it’s vaccinated, they may not be fully protected against a condition. Your vet will examine your rabbit for any signs of illness and will delay the vaccination if your rabbit is unwell.

There have been a few reported cases of rabbits contracting myxomatosis after having had the old vaccine, but in these cases the symptoms were very mild. This single vaccine has now been replaced by combined vaccines in most veterinary practices in the UK.

How Much do Rabbit Vaccinations Cost?

Rabbit vaccination costs vary depending on where you live in the UK. Most places charge between £50-£125 for a full vaccination course, and around the same price for the yearly booster vaccinations.

At a rabbit vaccination appointment, your vet will first check your rabbit to assess their health. If your rabbit is poorly, any health issues will need to be treated. Your rabbit must be in good health before the vaccines can be given. Rabbit vaccines are given by injection usually into the scruff at the back of the neck, which is well tolerated by most rabbits.

The vaccines will protect your rabbit for one year, so they’ll need booster vaccinations every year.

Everypaw Rabbit Insurance

Here at Everypaw, we want to help you keep your bunny healthy and in tip top shape. So, when it comes to your young rabbit’s care, Everypaw’s Rabbit Insurance could be just the cover to look after your little thumper.

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