🐾 What Is Myxomatosis?

Myxomatosis is a severe, often fatal viral disease of domestic rabbits, caused by the Myxoma virus (a Leporipoxvirus). While wild Sylvilagus rabbits show mild signs, European pet rabbits frequently suffer life-threatening illness :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}.

⚠️ Why It's Dangerous

• In pet rabbits, mortality rates run between 70–99%, depending on strain :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}.
• North American (California strain) outbreaks approach 100% mortality :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}.
• No direct treatment—the virus attacks skin, eyes, lungs, genitals, and liver :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}.

🔬 How It Spreads

• By biting insects such as mosquitoes, fleas, flies, ticks, mites :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}.
• Via direct contact or contaminated objects (fomites) like cages, dishes, bedding :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}.
• Wild rabbit reservoirs often drive localized outbreaks in pet rabbits :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}.

👁️ Recognizing Clinical Signs

Signs vary by strain and disease stage:

• Early signs: Fever, lethargy, anorexia, “sleepy” eyelids swelling :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}.
• Classic “big‑head” signs: Swollen eyelids, face, ears, genitals; mucopurulent ocular/nasal discharge :contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11}.
• Respiratory distress and secondary pneumonia: Gasping or breathing loudly :contentReference[oaicite:12]{index=12}.
• Skin nodules or myxomas: More common in chronic or less virulent strains :contentReference[oaicite:13]{index=13}.
• Peracute cases: Sudden death with few outward signs :contentReference[oaicite:14]{index=14}.

🧪 Diagnosis

• Often based on distinctive clinical signs—particularly swelling patterns and discharge :contentReference[oaicite:15]{index=15}.
• Confirmed via PCR or skin biopsy in labs :contentReference[oaicite:16]{index=16}.
• No rapid in-clinic test—post-mortem histopathology or PCR is definitive.

💊 Available Treatments

No specific antiviral exists. Treatment is supportive only:

• Antibiotics to prevent or treat secondary bacterial infections :contentReference[oaicite:17]{index=17}.
• Fluid therapy and syringe feeding to prevent dehydration and malnutrition :contentReference[oaicite:18]{index=18}.
• Eye/respiratory care: warm saline, ocular lubricants.
• Wound/inflammation management with NSAIDs.

Unfortunately, most veterinarians recommend humane euthanasia in acute or advanced cases to prevent suffering :contentReference[oaicite:19]{index=19}.

📅 Prognosis

• Peracute/acute cases: death within 7–14 days in over 70% of cases :contentReference[oaicite:20]{index=20}.
• Chronic or vaccine-modified cases: some recover with residual nasal/respiratory issues :contentReference[oaicite:21]{index=21}.
• Recovery is rare and usually involves intensive long-term care.

🛡️ Prevention & Biosecurity

• Vaccination: Annual vaccine is available in Europe/UK and countries where approved :contentReference[oaicite:22]{index=22}.
• In regions without vaccine (e.g., Australia, North America), avoid outdoor exposure and contact with wild rabbits :contentReference[oaicite:23]{index=23}.
• Physical barriers: insect-proof hutches, mosquito nets, vector repellents :contentReference[oaicite:24]{index=24}.
• Strict hygiene: disinfect cages and gear; quarantine new arrivals for 14 days :contentReference[oaicite:25]{index=25}.
• Report cases to authorities in areas where disease is notifiable (e.g., CA, Mexico) :contentReference[oaicite:26]{index=26}.

📅 Vaccination Details (Where Available)

📋 Quick Reference Table

🧠 Pro Vet Tips for 2025

• In endemic areas, always ensure annual vaccination & vector protection.
• Promptly isolate any rabbit presenting with swelling or respiratory signs.
• Vector-proofing is critical even indoors—use screens and insect traps.
• Educate local communities about wildlife disease risks.
• Implement emergency flowcharts for suspected outbreaks in multi-rabbit homes.

🔚 Final Takeaway

Myxomatosis remains a serious, often fatal threat to domestic rabbits—particularly in areas with no vaccine access. In 2025, prevention through vector control, vaccination (where available), prompt isolation, and hygienic practices are essential. Early recognition and supportive care can help, but outcomes are limited. 🐇❤️

🌟 Featured Partner Services

• Ask A Vet: 24/7 access to rabbit-savvy vets for outbreak evaluation, vaccine advice, and emergency protocols.
• Woopf: Insect-proof hutch accessories, mosquito netting kits, and disinfectant tools.
• Purrz: Vector-repellent sprays, skin lubrication creams, and recovery support packs for infected rabbits.