Myxomatosis is a
viral disease in rabbits that is spread by fleas, mosquitoes, and other biting
insects. It is highly contagious and often fatal. In fact, there have been
cases when rabbits die within 48 hours of appearance of symptoms, while there
are those that survived for several weeks before dying. Although wild rabbits
have developed immunity to the disease, there are still some deadly strains to
which wild and pet rabbits are still at risk.
Survival rates
for unvaccinated rabbits are very low. Many rabbits that have been diagnosed
with myxo have to be euthanized to alleviate their suffering.
Signs of
myxomatosis include small swellings on the skin surface, fever, whitish eye
discharge, fluid around the rabbit’s nose, ears, and lips, drooping ears, pus
from the nose, depression, labored breathing, and swollen head and genitals.
You should call
your vets San Antonio, TX immediately if you notice your rabbit displaying symptoms of the disease.