All you need to know about rabbit vaccinations
Rabbits can easily pick up a number of diseases and viruses. Fortunately, you can protect your bunny with annual rabbit vaccinations. Learn more about injections for rabbits, the cost of rabbit vaccines and more.
Do rabbits need vaccinations?
Like all other pets, rabbits can suffer from life-threatening diseases. Getting your rabbit an injection against these viruses every year can safeguard your beloved bunny and boost their immunity for the long term.
Most insurance policies require your rabbit to be vaccinated, as conditions that could have been prevented by vaccination will not be covered. So, if you’re thinking of taking out a pet insurance policy, it’s worth getting regular rabbit vaccinations.
When should I get my rabbit vaccinated?
Bunnies can be vaccinated from five weeks old, with immunity taking three weeks to develop. The initial injection combines the Myxomatosis vaccine with the R(V)HD Plus vaccine.
Your rabbit will also need a single vaccine to protect against R(V)HD2 at 10 weeks old. Afterwards, your rabbit will need an annual booster injection to keep their immunity topped up.
If you’re unsure whether your rabbit has been vaccinated, then scheduling a rabbit vaccination is a top priority. Being vaccinated can be the difference between life and death for your busy bunny, so speak to your vet to discuss their vaccination plan.
What happens at a vaccination appointment?
At a rabbit vaccination appointment, your bunny will get a full health assessment. This will include an inspection of areas you may not be able to detect at home, such as your rabbit’s back teeth. Your vet may also ask you questions about your bunny’s diet and their general behaviour.
Your vet will then give them a small injection under the skin at the back of the neck. It only takes a few seconds, and is generally tolerated by most rabbits.
How much are rabbit vaccinations?
Rabbit vaccines in the UK can cost between £50 and £125 on average depending on which area you live in (correct as of June 2023). Prices also vary from practice to practice. But bunny vaccine costs are far less than treatment for the diseases they help to prevent.
Do indoor rabbits need vaccinations?
Yes, your rabbit needs vaccinating. Although he or she remains indoors and may be exposed less than outdoor rabbits, they can still pick up nasty viruses and diseases. Myxomatosis, RVHD-1 and RVHD-2 can spread via insects as well as clothes and shoes, so it’s worth vaccinating your indoor rabbit.
What do rabbit vaccinations protect against?
Rabbit vaccinations can help to protect your beloved bunny against the following illnesses:
Myxomatosis
Myxomatosis is a highly infectious virus spread by blood-sucking insects, such as mosquitoes and fleas, or direct contact with an infected rabbit. This virus is widespread across the UK and can be transmitted to indoor and outdoor rabbits.
Symptoms can take up to 14 days to appear. Early signs of myxomatosis include swelling around the ears, face and or eyes, sometimes leading to blindness. This can also affect the anus and or genitals. Sadly, there is no treatment, and rabbits tend to die within 10-14 days of contracting the virus. An annual myxomatosis vaccine is essential to keeping your bunny safe.
Rabbit (Viral) Haemorrhagic Disease (R(V)HD)
R(V)HD is an extremely contagious disease that causes internal bleeding, high fever and liver disease. While it doesn’t affect bunnies under six weeks old, it can cause severe disease in older rabbits.
The disease spreads via contaminated objects or environments, insects, and close contact with an infected rabbit. R(V)HD is often difficult to detect, as bunnies can die very suddenly. Signs to look out for include a loss of appetite, fever, difficulty breathing, bloody discharge from the nose or mouth, and seizures.
A strain of R(V)HD - R(V)HD2
As the name suggests, R(V)HD2 is a second strain of Rabbit Haemorrhagic Disease. The virus is still associated with severe internal bleeding, but often owners will only notice due to the sudden death of their rabbit.
R(V)HD2 has a lower mortality rate than the first strain, but it affects rabbits of all ages. There’s no specific treatment, and while some rabbits can recover from the infection, it’s still fatal in many cases. The disease is widespread across the UK, so making sure your rabbit is vaccinated against this condition is a necessity.
Does pet insurance cover rabbit vaccinations?
Unfortunately, pet insurance doesn’t cover the cost of rabbit vaccinations. However, Sainsbury’s Bank Pet Insurance, provided by Pinnacle Insurance plc, can provide protection when your bunny needs it most. That means you’ll get comprehensive cover, 24/7 vet assistance and more when you take out rabbit insurance with us.
Get a quote today.
Frequently asked questions
Is it too late to vaccinate my rabbit?
No, it’s never too late to start a rabbit vaccination schedule. Older rabbits tend to have a weaker immune system, so it’s even more important that you give them a helping hand with regular boosters.
Does my rabbit need annual vaccinations?
Rabbit vaccinations protect your bunny from catching nasty diseases. After the initial vaccine at five weeks old, your rabbit will require an annual booster injection to keep their immunity topped up.
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