Calicivirus in Pet Rabbits
Rabbit Calicivirus is a disease which damages the rabbit's internal organs such as the liver and gut, and can also cause haemorrhage or bleeding. Calicivirus is spread from wild rabbits, in the air and on clothing and hands. Fleas also transmit the virus from rabbit to rabbit.
There is no cure for Calicivirus. Generally, 70-100% of rabbits die once affected.
A new strain of rabbit calicivirus is currently being released in Victoria, to assist in the management of pest rabbits.
The new strain of calicivirus, referred to as RHDV1 K5 or simply 'K5', is a variant of the existing calicivirus already established and widespread across Australia.
A vaccine (Cylap®) is available, to help protect pet rabbits from the various strains of calicivirus.
Pet rabbit owners should make sure animals' vaccinations are up-to-date to protect against the virus.
Note: The Australian Veterinary Association recommends that for best protection against the current virus about to be released (RHDV1-K5), previously released variants (RHDV1, RHDV1A) and the variant that emerged in parts of Australia in 2015 called RHDV2, the following protocols should be followed in consultation with your local veterinarian.
- Kittens: 4, 8, 12 weeks of age, then every 6 months.
- Adults: 2 vaccinations 1 month apart, then every 6 months.
Additional information is available from:
Calicivirus can be very fast acting. If this is the case, your rabbit may not show any symptoms of having the disease. For slower acting infections you may notice some of the following symptoms; loss of appetite, lethargy and some bleeding from the nose, mouth and rectum. If you see any of these symptoms contact your local vet immediately and isolate your rabbit from other pet rabbits.
For more information on Calicivirus and vaccination contact your local vet.