💉 Why Rabbits Need Vaccines

Vaccinations are vital to protect rabbits from deadly viral diseases like Rabbit Hemorrhagic Disease Virus (RHDV/RHDV2) and Myxomatosis. These illnesses carry mortality rates between 70–100% :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}.

In the U.S., the USDA approved an emergency-use RHDV2 vaccine in 2021 as the variant became widespread across 23 states :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}.

🦠 Diseases & Vaccine Availability

• RHDV and RHDV2: Calicivirus strains affecting wild and domestic rabbits. RHDV2 emerged in 2018 and quickly became endemic :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}.
• Myxomatosis: A poxvirus causing severe infections, prevalent in Europe and Australia. Vaccines are available in those regions but currently not approved in the U.S. :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}.

👶 Ideal Age & Initial Vaccination

Vaccination typically begins around 4–7 weeks of age :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}. In the U.S., RHDV2 vaccines are safe from as early as 28 days old :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}.

Protocols often involve 2 initial doses spaced 3 weeks apart, followed by yearly boosters :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}.

📅 Vaccination Schedule in 2025

• Primary Series: Two doses for RHDV2, 3 weeks apart.
• Annual Boosters: Administered every 12 months; can be 6–14 months after the last dose to maintain protection :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}.
• Geographic Variations: In endemic areas, boosters may be every 6 months; in the UK/EU, bivalent vaccines (Myxo-RHD plus RHDV2) are given from 5 weeks annually :contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11}.

💉 Vaccine Types

• RHDV2 Vaccine – Inactivated recombinant protein; two-dose primary course then annual boost :contentReference[oaicite:12]{index=12}.
• Bivalent Myxo-RHD
• Combined Myxo-RHD PLUS
• Rabies/Pasteurella

✅ Safety & Side Effects

Vaccines are generally safe. Mild side effects may include low-grade fever, lethargy, or injection-site swelling :contentReference[oaicite:16]{index=16}.

Because RHDV2 vaccines are new, they should be given only by a licensed vet and followed by post-vaccination observation periods :contentReference[oaicite:17]{index=17}.

🏥 Vaccination in Clinic

Some veterinary clinics host vaccination clinics offering shots at set intervals. Requirements typically include rabbits aged ≥4 weeks, healthy, and previously boosted within 14 months :contentReference[oaicite:18]{index=18}.

🧩 Coordinating with Preventive Care

Vaccinations are part of annual wellness visits that include weight checks, dental exams, fecal testing, and spay/neuter evaluations :contentReference[oaicite:19]{index=19}.

⚠️ Why Year-Round Coverage Is Essential

Even indoor rabbits are at risk due to insect-borne transmission and fomite spread. RHDV2 and Myxomatosis viruses can survive on cages, bedding, and clothing :contentReference[oaicite:20]{index=20}.

Pets in regions with active wild rabbit or mosquito populations should follow strict booster protocols—possibly every 6 months :contentReference[oaicite:21]{index=21}.

📋 Summary Table

🧠 Vet Tips for 2025

• Ensure your rabbit is boosted within 6–14 months to maintain protection :contentReference[oaicite:22]{index=22}.
• Keep annual wellness visits—vaccines don’t replace check-ups :contentReference[oaicite:23]{index=23}.
• Advise owners in non-vaccine countries to employ strict indoor vector proofing :contentReference[oaicite:24]{index=24}.
• Document vaccination dates and share certificate copies with all caregivers.
• Discuss off-label rabies vaccines if wildlife exposure is high in your region :contentReference[oaicite:25]{index=25}.

🔚 Final Takeaway

RHDV2 and Myxomatosis pose serious, often fatal threats to rabbits. Vaccination remains the most effective tool, alongside biosecurity and routine veterinary care. For most domestic rabbits—especially in high-risk areas—starting vaccines early and keeping timely boosters ensures safety and peace of mind for owners through 2025 and beyond. 🐇❤️

🌟 Partner Services

• Ask A Vet: Live-access rabbit veterinary care for vaccine schedules, outbreak advice, and certificate tracking.
• Woopf: Vaccine reminder kits, vaccination charts, and vector-proof hutch accessories.
• Purrz: Supplement packs, calming aids, and skin-care products to soothe post-vaccination pets.