Yes, rabbits can get rabies, a virus that attacks the central nervous system. So rabies is a severe virus that can be fatal, so it’s essential to be aware of the symptoms and take preventive measures.
If you are ever bitten or scratched by a rabbit, immediately clean the wound and call your local animal control officer. Not only will they be able to help you with the rabbit, but they’ll also be able to advise you on how to keep you and your pets safe from rabies.
Rabies in Rabbits
Symptoms of Rabies in Rabbits
If you do notice any of the following symptoms in your rabbit, it’s essential to take him to a veterinarian for a check-up:
- Abnormal behavior such as excessive cuddling or chewing.
- Vocalization changes such as growling, screaming, or unusual noises.
- Decreased activity levels.
- White patches on the skin (called dermatitis foci).
Classic signs of rabies in rabbits include foaming at the mouth, staggering, paralysis of the hind limbs, seizures (commonly occurring during anesthetic procedures), and death, usually within 24 hours after the onset of symptoms.
If you notice any unusual behavior in your rabbits, such as aggression or difficulty breathing, take them to the vet immediately for diagnosis and treatment of rabies.
Rabies can affect any animal but is particularly dangerous to rabbits because they have a shorter biting phase than other mammals. Therefore, knowing the symptoms and taking preventive measures is the best way to keep your rabbit safe!
Causes of Rabies in Rabbits
Rabies is a virus that can be deadly to rabbits and other animals, including humans. Rabies is caused by a virus and can be transmitted to others through contact with infected saliva, blood, or brain matter.
In rabbits, rabies most often affects the central nervous system (the part of the brain that controls impulses) and the eyes. If you see any unusual behavior in your rabbits, such as restless movement or aggression, it’s essential to get them evaluated by a veterinarian as soon as possible.
Prevention is critical – there is no available vaccine against rabies for rabbits; as such, you should keep their environment clean so they don’t come in contact with other animals who may have the virus.
Treatment of Rabies in Rabbits
Although no vaccine is available for rabbits, post-exposure prophylaxis (PPE) with human rabies immune globulin (HRIG) has been found to provide some degree of protection when given promptly after exposure to the virus.
Recovery of Rabies in Rabbits
Make sure everyone who comes in contact with the rabbit is vaccinated against rabies and takes appropriate precautions while working with the rabbit. If rabies is confirmed, provide plenty of water and food for the rabbit during recovery.
Do not force feed the rabbit, as this can worsen the virus. Immediately isolate the rabbit and call animal control or the veterinarian. By following these simple steps, you can help make the recovery of rabies in rabbits easier.
How to Prevent a Pet Rabbit From Contracting Rabies
Prevention is vital when it comes to rabies in rabbits. Make sure to confine your rabbit indoors to limit contact with wild animals.
Rabies is a severe health condition that should be taken very seriously by all involved – the owner, the vet, and the caretaker of the rabbit. Sadly, rabies can be fatal to rabbits if not appropriately treated.
There is no guarantee that your pet rabbit will never get rabies, but there are things you can do to reduce the risk. If you ever see any unusual behavior or signs of illness in your rabbit, take it to the veterinarian immediately for tests. Ensure your rabbit has a proper name and identification tag, keep it indoors, and feed it only fresh vegetables and fruits.
What to Do if a Rabbit Gets Rabies
If you see a rabbit that appears sick or has rabies, take it to the veterinarian as soon as possible. If you are worried about the rabbit, do not attempt to remove the virus yourself. Instead, leave the rabbit in the care of a veterinarian who can properly treat it. If your rabbit does contract rabies, there are treatment options available.
Make sure to keep an eye out for symptoms in other pets or people in your home, and remember – rabies is a disease that can be fatal to both humans and rabbits.
What to Do if An Infected Pet Rabbit Scratches you
You should do a few things if your infected pet rabbit scratches you. First and foremost, seal the area using an adhesive bandage, if necessary. Secondly, clean the wound with soap and water if you are able. Thirdly, apply pressure to the wound with another cloth until the bleeding stops.
Finally, soak a clean cloth in warm water and place it over the wound. Afterward, remove any clothing or jewelry that may have been contaminated with the virus. See a medical professional for rabies treatment.
Sanitize Your Home
It’s important to sanitize your home regularly to prevent the virus from spreading. There are many ways to do this, depending on the kind of sanitization you feel most comfortable with.
Always clean up after your rabbits and follow all the instructions when cleaning – improper sanitization can lead to illness. Make sure to have rabbit-safe disinfectant on hand when necessary, and you’ll be safe and sound!
