With the weather heating up when it fancies, we want to remind all of our bunny owners about myiasis… commonly known as fly strike.

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Fly strike is PREVENTABLE!

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A painful, and sometimes fatal, condition caused by flies laying eggs on soiled fur. Eggs hatch into maggots and eat away at the rabbit’s flesh.

If left untreated, your rabbit will die.

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ARE YOUR RABBITS AT RISK?

• Flies love faeces, dirty bedding and urine scalding.

• Any rabbit with a dirty bottom is at a very high risk – whether from faeces or urine!

• If your rabbit has a dirty bottom this can be because of a poor diet, arthritis, obesity, or very dirty bedding.

• In warm weather, bunnies bums should be checked (at least) twice daily.

• Their toilet area needs to be cleaned regularly- especially in a smaller area. If an area is kept clean, flies are not attracted.

• There is a preventative treatment you can purchase to put on your rabbit that lasts up to 10 weeks!

• If your rabbit is obese, weight loss is helpful to encourage grooming to clean themselves properly, movement and less strain on their joints.

• If for any reason your rabbit has a wound, keep it clean and dry.

• If you are concerned your rabbit is producing urine abnormally, softer faeces are visible around their back end or they are not moving or eating adequately, please contact us to see a vet.

• If you are concerned your rabbit may have fly strike, do not hesitate and contact your veterinary practice immediately - no matter the time!