European Rabbit Vaccinations and Myxomatosis Prevention

As a rabbit owner in the European Union, protecting your companion from deadly viral diseases is one of your most important responsibilities. Europe is the native home of the European rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus), meaning wild populations are prevalent, and the viruses that affect them—specifically Myxomatosis and Rabbit Hemorrhagic Disease Virus (RHDV1 and RHDV2)—are endemic.

These diseases are highly contagious, almost always fatal, and present in almost every EU country. Fortunately, they are also highly preventable.

Understanding the Threats

Myxomatosis

Originally introduced to Europe in the 1950s to control wild rabbit populations, Myxomatosis causes severe swelling of the eyes, ears, and genitals, leading to blindness, respiratory distress, and death. It is primarily spread by blood-sucking insects like mosquitoes and the rabbit flea, meaning even indoor rabbits are at risk if a mosquito gets inside.

Rabbit Hemorrhagic Disease (RHDV1 & RHDV2)

RHDV is a highly resilient calicivirus that causes massive internal bleeding and sudden death. It can be transmitted through direct contact with infected rabbits, but crucially, it survives for months in the environment. You can easily track the virus into your home on your shoes or clothes, and it can even be carried on the wind or by insects. RHDV2, a newer strain, also affects young kittens (baby rabbits) and some hare species.

The Vaccination Schedule

Vaccination is the only reliable defence against these viruses. Across the EU, the availability of specific vaccines varies slightly, but the protocol is generally the same.

1. The Combined Vaccine: In many EU countries, a combined vaccine (like Nobivac Myxo-RHD PLUS) is available. This single injection protects against Myxomatosis, RHDV1, and RHDV2.
2. When to Start: Kittens can typically be vaccinated from 5 to 7 weeks of age.
3. Annual Boosters: Protection is not lifelong. Your rabbit must receive an annual booster shot for the rest of their life to maintain immunity. Do not let this lapse.

Always consult your local exotic or rabbit-savvy veterinarian for the specific vaccine protocols recommended in your country.

Environmental Protection: Vector Control

While vaccination is the primary shield, reducing exposure to the insects that carry these diseases (vectors) provides a crucial second layer of defence, especially in the warmer months.

• Mosquito Nets: If your rabbit lives indoors, install mosquito nets or screens on your windows, particularly if you leave them open at night.
• Hutch Fly Screens: For outdoor rabbits, cover the hutch wire with fine insect mesh to prevent mosquitoes and flies from entering.
• Eliminate Standing Water: Mosquitoes breed in stagnant water. Empty any saucers under plant pots, bird baths, or old buckets in your garden.
• Flea Prevention: If you have dogs or cats that go outside, ensure their flea treatments are strictly up-to-date, as they can carry the rabbit flea indoors. Never use dog or cat flea treatments on a rabbit without explicit veterinary instruction, as many (like Frontline) are fatally toxic to rabbits.

Keeping track of annual booster dates is vital but easy to forget. The RabbitCare App (free on Android) allows you to input your rabbit’s vaccination history and sets automatic reminders weeks before their next booster is due, ensuring their protection never lapses. Download the app today for peace of mind.

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References & Sources

1. RWAF — “Vaccinations for Rabbits” — rabbitwelfare.co.uk
2. European Scientific Counsel Companion Animal Parasites (ESCCAP) — “Myxomatosis and RHDV Prevention”
3. Harcourt-Brown, F. (2002) — Textbook of Rabbit Medicine, Butterworth-Heinemann
4. Meredith, A. & Lord, B. (Eds.) (2014) — BSAVA Manual of Rabbit Medicine, BSAVA
5. MSD Animal Health — “Nobivac Myxo-RHD PLUS product information”