Rabbit owners across Australia are being urged to take immediate action as councils prepare to release a virus designed to control wild rabbit populations. While this measure helps reduce the damage caused by feral rabbits, it also poses a serious threat to pet rabbits. Here’s what you need to know to keep your furry friend safe.
What Is the Calicivirus?
The Rabbit Haemorrhagic Disease Virus (RHDV-K5), also known as calicivirus, is a highly infectious disease that spreads rapidly among rabbit populations. It was first introduced in 2017 and successfully reduced wild rabbit numbers by around 35%. The virus is spread through contaminated surfaces, insect bites, and food or water sources.
Unfortunately, domestic rabbits are also at risk. The disease can cause fever, breathing difficulties, bleeding from the mouth and nose, spasms, and sudden death. Once infected, pet rabbits have little chance of survival without prior vaccination.
Virus Release Dates and Locations:
- Western Australia – Releases began in January 2025 and will continue in March.
- Victoria – Virus rolled out in the first two weeks of February 2025.
- South Australia – Releases recently completed in public reserves.
- New South Wales (Greater Sydney & Central Coast) – Planned release in early March 2025.
- Tasmania – Expected release in late summer to early autumn 2025.
- Northern Territory & ACT – Regularly use calicivirus, but upcoming release dates are unclear.
How to Protect Your Pet Rabbit
Experts are urging all rabbit owners to vaccinate their pets as soon as possible. Full immunity takes about two weeks to develop, so acting now is crucial.
In addition to vaccination, here are extra precautions to keep your rabbit safe: ✔️ Keep your rabbit indoors or in an enclosed hutch with insect-proof screens.
✔️ Regularly sanitize food bowls, water dispensers, and rabbit enclosures.
✔️ Avoid letting your rabbit roam in areas where wild rabbits are present.
✔️ Control insects like mosquitoes and flies, which can spread the virus.
✔️ Clean your shoes before entering your home if you’ve been in rabbit-prone areas.
Don’t Wait – Get Your Rabbit Vaccinated.
Many pet owners are still unaware that rabbits need annual vaccinations to stay protected. Vets have reported lower-than-expected numbers of rabbits coming in for their shots, despite the looming risk.
If you own a rabbit, book a vaccination appointment today to ensure your pet is safe before the virus is released in your area. Spread the word to fellow rabbit owners—prevention is the only way to keep our beloved bunnies healthy.
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