Wild rabbits are a costly pest here in Australia, causing environmental and economic damage.

In an attempt to control wild rabbits two viruses have been released which domestic rabbits can contract.

Myxomatosis--Viral disease which is carried by mosquitos.  Shire and suburban councils throughout Melbourne and Victoria periodically release it to control wild rabbits. There is a vaccine available overseas, however it is not available in Australia.

There is no treatment or cure for myxomatosis once your rabbit has contracted the disease.  Therefore the only cure is prevention.  Rabbits are best kept in hutches in sheds or  indoors.  Any external hutches should be covered in fly wire and inspected for holes where insects can sneak in. In the summer months, it is recommended that rabbit breeders burn mosquito coils or candles as a deterrent.   Mxyo is also transmitted by fleas so regularly dust your rabbits with flea powder that is suitable for cats.  It will keep your rabbit happier too.  Unlike certain strains of wild rabbits that have built up resistance to mxyomatosis, few domestic rabbits survive the disease if they contract it.  It has been estimated that Mxyomatosis is the leading  killer of domestic rabbits.  However it should not stop you keeping rabbits at all if precautions are taken.

Rabbit Calicivirus disease--Another viral disease transmited by insects and contact with affected animals.  No cure is available, however rabbits can be vaccinated.  Rabbits can't be vaccinated until they are over 10 weeks (Unless epidemic conditions exist), but kittens carry their mothers  immunity until this age.  Rabbits require an annual booster.  MRF recommends that all rabbit owners vaccinate their rabbits and recommend that all show stock should be vaccinated.  Owners exhibit their stock at their own risk