Infectious disease · Updated 2026-09-29
Myxomatosis in rabbits
A severe viral disease spread by biting insects and direct contact; often fatal in unvaccinated domestic rabbits.
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Signs to watch for
- Swollen eyes, nose and genitals
- Pus-like eye discharge
- Fever and lethargy
- Loss of appetite
- Breathing difficulty
- Skin lumps
Causes and risk factors
Myxoma virus transmitted by fleas, mosquitoes and mites, or by contact with infected rabbits.
How veterinarians diagnose it
Usually based on the characteristic appearance; laboratory confirmation is possible.
Treatment and management
Supportive nursing, pain relief, assisted feeding and antibiotics for secondary infection. Vaccinated rabbits have far better survival.
Prevention
Annual vaccination, insect-proof housing, mosquito netting and prompt flea control for all pets in the home.
Outlook
Poor in unvaccinated rabbits; vaccinated rabbits usually develop a milder, survivable form.
Common questions
- What are the signs of myxomatosis in rabbits?
- Swollen eyes, nose and genitals; Pus-like eye discharge; Fever and lethargy; Loss of appetite; Breathing difficulty; Skin lumps.
- What causes myxomatosis in rabbits?
- Myxoma virus transmitted by fleas, mosquitoes and mites, or by contact with infected rabbits.
- How is myxomatosis in rabbits diagnosed?
- Usually based on the characteristic appearance; laboratory confirmation is possible.
- How is myxomatosis in rabbits treated?
- Supportive nursing, pain relief, assisted feeding and antibiotics for secondary infection. Vaccinated rabbits have far better survival.
- Can myxomatosis in rabbits be prevented?
- Annual vaccination, insect-proof housing, mosquito netting and prompt flea control for all pets in the home.
- When should I contact a veterinarian?
- Isolate the rabbit and call your vet immediately. Do not bring a suspected case into a waiting room without warning the practice.
Preparing for a myxomatosis in rabbits consultation
- Record when these signs began and how they changed: Swollen eyes, nose and genitals; Pus-like eye discharge; Fever and lethargy. Record appetite, water intake, toileting and any medicines or supplements.
- The listed urgency is emergency; worsening breathing, collapse, seizures or severe pain can make any situation an emergency. Ask the clinic rather than relying only on this category.
- Ask what else could explain the signs, which tests would change the plan and how discomfort will be managed. Symptoms alone cannot confirm this condition.
- Before going home, agree what to monitor, when to recheck and which signs mean calling sooner. Follow the individual treatment plan; do not copy another pet's prescription.
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Sources on this topic
Pages on this specific subject from recognised organisations. They are cited for further reading and do not mean the organisation has reviewed this page.
- Myxomatosis in rabbits — PDSA
Guidance libraries and further reading
These organisations publish relevant guidance. Their links are further reading, not evidence that they have reviewed this page.