The rabbit disease VHD (Viral Hemorrhagic Disease), also called Rabbit Hemorrhagic Disease or RHD, is caused by a virus, the RHD virus. A rabbit that is very quiet and no longer eats could have VHD. The disease was first observed in China, but has also been present in Europe for about 15 years. The wild rabbit population has fallen dramatically to about 40% in 2004 due to this disease.
Cause
The virus spreads through direct contact between rabbits, but also via feces, insects (such as mosquitoes and flies), and contaminated material (such as cages and drinking bottles). Even freshly picked grass from contaminated environments can contain the virus! This disease is very contagious. Biting insects can also play a role in the spread.
Symptoms
After infection, one to three days pass before a rabbit shows symptoms of illness. How can you tell if your rabbit has been infected with the VHD virus? Be alert for: Shortness of breath; reduced to no appetite; diarrhea; constipation; fever; nosebleeds; paralysis and groaning in pain. However, be careful. Sometimes the rabbit shows no symptoms at all and it is therefore difficult to prove that it has VHD.
Diagnosis
Based on the clinical signs, the owner’s story and by excluding other diseases, a probable diagnosis can be made.
Treatment
Unfortunately, there is no therapy for VHD yet. The only way to treat the sick rabbit symptomatically is to keep it warm, inject fluids and give it painkillers and vitamins. Unfortunately, despite this treatment, the disease is fatal in almost all cases. A sick rabbit must be separated from other rabbits and the cage, floors, food bowls and drinking bottles must be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected.
Prevention
You can vaccinate your rabbit against this virus. Since 2012, there is a vaccination that also protects your rabbit against another deadly rabbit disease: myxomatosis. This vaccination is effective for a year. You can have your rabbit vaccinated from the age of five weeks. Your rabbit must be completely healthy at the time of vaccination, and the rabbit may not be pregnant.
