Fly Strike in Rabbits
Fly Strike (Myiosis) is a particularly distressing condition, which affects many rabbits over the hot summer months, mainly between April and October.
Flies (blow flies) are attracted to rabbits with soiled fur and skin. They will lay their eggs in the soiled areas mainly round the rear end.
The fly larvae hatch into maggots where they eat the flesh from the outside in.
Fly Strike can occur in matter of hours and if an animal becomes infected please contact the surgery immediately. Toxic shock can occur very quickly and can result in death.
Fly strike occurs more often in overweight rabbits which are unable to clean themselves sufficiently. It can also occur in unwell rabbits with looser faeces or if they have wounds.
Their urine maybe abnormally smelly or they may have diarrhoea.
Preventing Fly Strike in rabbits:
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Check for signs of injury/illness or abnormal behaviour daily.
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Thoroughly clean the toilet areas daily.
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Clean and disinfect housing and change bedding at least twice a week.
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Make sure your pet is not overweight or fed the incorrect diet. You can speak to your vet/nurse about this for some free advice.
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In warm weather check your rabbits rear end and tail area at least twice a day.
Put net curtains over hutches/runs etc to act as an insect curtain.
There are preventative treatments available so please talk to one of our nurses if you would like further information.
If your rabbit’s back end is dirty please clean it immediately.
Please contact the surgery for further advice.