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.

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.

Infectious disease · Updated 2026-09-29

A severe viral disease spread by biting insects and direct contact; often fatal in unvaccinated domestic rabbits.

Emergency veterinary attentionRabbits

Myxoma virus transmitted by fleas, mosquitoes and mites, or by contact with infected rabbits.

Usually based on the characteristic appearance; laboratory confirmation is possible.

Supportive nursing, pain relief, assisted feeding and antibiotics for secondary infection. Vaccinated rabbits have far better survival.

Annual vaccination, insect-proof housing, mosquito netting and prompt flea control for all pets in the home.

Poor in unvaccinated rabbits; vaccinated rabbits usually develop a milder, survivable form.

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.