Mid-Vancouver Island rabbit owners are being warned after several wild rabbits were found dead in Cedar with suspected rabbit hemorrhagic disease. Testing is underway to confirm the cause.
The disease has previously been detected in commercial and pet rabbits in Parksville, the Comox Valley, Nanaimo and the Lower Mainland.
The highly contagious virus affects only rabbits and is often fatal. It spreads through direct contact between animals and indirectly through bedding, food, water, cages, clothing, footwear and vehicle tires.
Symptoms include fever, lethargy, respiratory distress, bleeding from the nose or mouth, or sudden death.
While the disease poses no risk to humans, dogs or cats, it can be carried short distances on the fur, feet or droppings of other animals.
There is no treatment, but a vaccine is available for domestic rabbits in B.C. Rabbit owners are advised to practise good hygiene when handling rabbits or cleaning their enclosures and to keep them away from areas where the disease may be present.
Anyone who notices signs of illness in their rabbits should contact a veterinarian immediately.
