Myxomatosis rabbit immunity

There has been a study on rabbit immunity to the rabbit virus, Myxomatosis with results published in "Science".  The Natural History Museum in the UK has published an article about the way rabbit genes have evolved since the time of Charles Darwin who studied this in his own rabbit. 

'Often evolution works through big changes in single genes,' explains Joel, 'but our findings show that resistance to myxomatosis likely evolved through lots of small effects spread across the genome.'

Crucially, these all occurred in the same genes relating to immunity.

Hopefully, for our pet rabbits in Australia, the genes will continue to evolve until there is complete immunity to the dreaded, incurable rabbit Myxomatosis virus. 

Symptoms of Myxomatosis are:  reddening of both eyes, a pinkness and swelling of nose, ears and anus. The rabbit's ears will be hot. Gradually lesions appear. Finally the eyes will swell shut, the swelling in the rabbit's mouth will stop eating and drinking. 

If a rabbit is found with Myxomatosis, it should be taken to a vet for humane euthanasia as there is no treatment and no cure. 

PARASITE CONTROL FOR RABBITS

FLEAS & Mozzies carry two fatal rabbit diseases

Revolution for Cats 

Fleas, mites, ear mites, internal parasites

0.2ml per kg 

Apply to back of neck

Use ON ARRIVAL

Advantix for Dogs (any size dog)

Fleas & MOZZIE REPELLENT

0.1ml per kg

Apply to back of neck

Use for rabbits exposed to mozzies e.g. if they have outside time or the house is not well screened.

Apply to SKIN NOT FUR

Apply to a few spots at back of neck 

You don't want one big pool of it or you may get a rash or worse a sore.

Myxomatosis

Read about it in Australia

www.myxomatosis.com.au 

Mozzie proof Rabbit Enclosures

Did you know by clicking on g+ on any of our posts you help us to rehome rabbits?

Mosquito Proof Rabbit Housing

Myxomatosis kills pet rabbits. It is carried by Mosquitos. 

At The Rabbit Rescue Sanctuary we vaccinate for Calicivirus. 

There is no vaccine for myxomatosis. 

You can protect your rabbit from Myxomatosis by having a mozzie proof enclosure.

Mozzie proof your pet rabbits by keeping them in playpen in the home.

This gorgeous little rabbit house hutch kennel with verandah is gorgeous in any home.

Mozzie proof by keeping rabbits in an outdoor enclosure with fly screen over the wire.

A fly screened verandah can be good too