Risky for Rabbits

Cambridge is a very high risk area for myxomatosis, which is a painful and usually fatal disease which is transmitted by biting insects.

Unless pet rabbits are vaccinated twice a year, preferably in spring and autumn, they are very likely to catch the infection and die. Even rabbits who are never allowed outside may be infected by flying midges.

The RSPCA clinic at 1 Pool Way, off Whitehill Road (next to the Swimming Pool) offers low-cost vaccinations for rabbits owned by people on state benefits (including working tax credit and pension credit). These cost £7 for each injection and getting this done regularly will not only protect the rabbit from the disease but will also ensure that he/she has an up-to-date registration with the clinic. This means that it will be possible for him/her to be seen outside normal clinic hours in case of emergency.

To get your rabbit vaccinated bring them along to one of the sessions on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday or Saturday with your £7 fee and proof of benefits. You need to be at the clinic before 10.30 am; there’s no need to contact the clinic to make an appointment, but there may be quite a long wait.

Private vets may charge as much as £100 to see animals on a Sunday or during the night, so if you would struggle to afford this it is very important to be prepared by getting your pet registered at the RSPCA clinic as rabbits are delicate and it’s usually important to start treatment as soon as they show signs of illness.

During hot and humid weather it’s also important to check your rabbit regularly for signs of fly eggs — particularly around the anus and near any soiled areas of fur or wounds. Fly eggs can hatch into maggots in hours and literally eat into the rabbit — a horrible thought!

As well as keeping rabbits and their surroundings very clean it’s possible to buy preparations to protect against maggot attack — consult your vet for advice.