Viral Haemorrhagic Disease

Viral Haemorrhagic Disease VHD

Many rabbits with VHD are found dead in the hutch.

The virus attacks blood vessel walls, causing bleeding form any opening, such as the nose and anus.

Affected rabbits experience severe pain and may be found hunched over and may cry if touched.

 

Myxomatosis, bloat and any pain may cause rabbits to sit hunched and miserable.

Trauma and rat poison can cause bleeding.

Rabbits that are found dead may have suffered from numerous different complaints.

An autopsy by a qualified vet could help determine the cause of the death.

Cause:

 A virus transmitted between rabbits carried by blood sucking parasites.

 

There is nothing that can be done to save a rabbit with VHD. Since there are other causes of sudden pain or bleeding, it is important to get your rabbit to a vet as soon as possible if they should show theses signs. In severe cases it may be kindest to put the rabbit to sleep rather than to prolong suffering.

 

Rabbits showing intense pain or bleeding, or those hunched up and miserable are an emergency and need to be seen by a vet as soon as possible.

 

Annual vaccination against VHD is vital.

Deterring biting insects by using the various products that canbe applied to rabbits is a very good idea.

Covering the hutch in the late afternoon when the insects come out in summer can also help.