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Vaccinations for rabbits, in particular, are vital to keeping our pets healthy and preventing them from contracting infectious diseases and health conditions.

There are several highly infectious and potentially fatal diseases that affect rabbits which is why it is important for your rabbit to be vaccinated annually to protect them.

These diseases include Myxomatosis and Viral Haemorrhagic Disease (VHD).

Fortunately, here at Woodward Veterinary Centre, rabbits can be vaccinated against these two diseases. All rabbits, even those kept indoors, should be vaccinated against these diseases because they can still become infected.

Previously, these vaccinations would have been administered through two separate injections, however, our new annual rabbit vaccination means that your pet can be protected against myxomatosis and both strains of VHD with just one single injection.

rabbit vaccinations

 

Rabbit vaccinations Leicester for Myxomatosis

Myxomatosis is a disease caused by the myxoma virus. It only affects rabbits, but both wild and pet rabbits are susceptible. The virus causes severe swelling of the eyelids, lips and genitals.

Wild rabbits suffering from this condition usually fall victim to predators such as foxes, or are hit by cars. Pet rabbits can occasionally recover from the condition with very intensive nursing, but in most cases the disease is fatal.

The myxoma virus is transmitted between animals by biting insects, including fleas and mosquitoes. Cats often pick up fleas and will bring these into the garden or inside the house. Therefore, even if your rabbit lives indoors or if you live in the town far from places where wild rabbits live, your pet rabbit could still be at risk.

Rabbit Vaccinations Leicester for Viral Haemorrhagic Disease (VHD or HVD)

This is a particularly nasty viral disease which reached the UK in 1992, and, like myxomatosis, only affects rabbits. It is caused by a highly contagious virus which can be transmitted directly between individual rabbits, or spread on contaminated equipment, clothing and footwear.

Insects, rodents and birds may also be able to carry the virus and infect isolated rabbits (such as pet rabbits).

VHD is nearly always fatal. It causes massive bleeding (haemorrhage) from the internal organs, and animals die as a result of the overwhelming blood loss, often very suddenly.

 

Spread the cost of your Rabbit vaccinations Leicester

Our Woodward Loyalty Plan offers the best value way to vaccinate your rabbit to ensure they have the preventative health protection they need over the course of their lifetime. Being a member allows you the opportunity to spread the cost over 12 months whilst also receiving discounts on other services at Woodward Veterinary Practice.


If you would like further information on vaccination programmes for your pet, or our Loyalty Discount Plan please click here.

 

Vaccinations FAQ

Do house rabbits need to be vaccinated?

Vaccinations are essential for providing your rabbit with adequate protection from life-threatening and debilitating diseases such as viral haemorrhagic disease (VHD 1 and 2) and myxomatosis. 

 

How often do rabbits need to be vaccinated?

We recommend that rabbits are vaccinated every 12 months to protect them against potentially fatal diseases.

 

How much are vaccinations for rabbits?

Please contact Woodward veterinary centre for more information and how you can join our loyalty discount scheme to spread the cost of any treatment over 12 months.

 

Do rabbits need to go to the vet?

To ensure your rabbit is kept happy and healthy, we recommend annual check-ups, as well as consults if you’re worried about your rabbit’s health. Rabbits are vulnerable to infectious diseases and illnesses one example is dental disease, which can cause a wide range of problems for your pet. We would advise you on vaccinations as well as external and internal parasite prevention.