Myxomatosis Cures

Myxomatosis is a potentially lethal disease that affects rabbits, both wild and domesticated. It is caused by the myxoma virus, which is a member of the pox family. This virus is spread by infected insects, such as mosquitoes, fleas and flies. First introduced to thin the an over-populated herd in Australia, the disease has spread to infect rabbits throughout Europe, Australia and the United States.

  1. Symptoms

    • Rabbits infected with Myxomatosis present with a discharge from the eyes as well as swelling around the head and ears. The discharge is usually the first notable symptom and can easily be mistaken for Weepy Eye, another infection of the eye. Within a few days of infection, the eyes are nearly swollen shut. This swelling of the facial area makes it difficult for a rabbit to eat, drink or even breathe. Lumps often develop on the face and ears. Secondary infections are common, such as snuffles or upper respiratory infections. These symptoms grow progressively worse in a short amount of time, and death usually occurs within a few days.

    Vaccination

    • While there are vaccinations against the myxoma virus, they are not approved for use or available in the United States. In the UK, these vaccinations are given at six weeks of age but do not completely protect the animal from contracting the virus, just minimize the risk of infection.

    Prevention

    • Controlling insects and pests are the best prevention against myxomatosis. In the United States, mosquitoes are the most common carrier of the myxomia virus. Frequent spraying of still, standing water and the removal of eggs eliminates the source of the insects. Treating other household animals for fleas and minimizing flies in the area of the rabbit hutch helps decrease the risk of contracting the disease. Sanitary measures must be taken to ensure a clean environment, free of insects.

      .

    Treatment

    • Myxomatosis is generally incurable and culling of the infected animal should be considered. In the event culling is not available, frequent cleaning of the eyes and other discharge is recommended as well as antibiotics. These measures will prolong the life of the rabbit days or weeks but will not cure the disease.