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Rabbits have bumps on their bodies
The disease, the main symptom of which is the bumps on the rabbit’s body, has a medical name – myxomatosis. Animals begin to get sick in summer and spring, as blood-sucking insects that carry the virus come to life at this time. The disease is epidemic in nature and is spreading rapidly.
Symptoms of a disease in which bumps appear in rabbits
The main vectors of the disease, when bumps appear on the rabbit’s body, are mosquitoes, fleas and ticks. These insects do not get myxomatosis, but they carry the virus on their salivary glands. During the bite, the causative agent of the disease enters the body of the rabbits. The virus is also transmitted through contact with sick animals through the respiratory tract or through drinking bowls, bowls and other household items.
With a nodular form, the bumps in rabbits are small and localized on the head.
The incubation period varies from 3 to 20 days. There are two types of disease:
- Edematous. Animals develop lachrymation, then they develop conjunctivitis. Breathing is difficult, strong wheezing is heard in the chest. Large bumps with liquid contents form throughout the body. The rabbits lose their appetite. The animal looks depressed and lifeless.
- Nodular. Small nodules appear on the skin, which disappear from time to time. The bumps are localized on the head. Then a runny nose, shortness of breath, conjunctivitis appear, while the pus closes the eyelids so that the rabbit stops seeing. After 2 weeks, he stops eating and is interested in others. If the animal is strong and hardy, it will recover in a month.
The edematous form is considered incurable, so sick animals must be immediately separated from healthy ones. The carcasses of the dead rabbits are burned. In no case should animals be buried; the virus continues to live in the ground for at least 2 years. In the nodular form, mortality reaches 50% of all cases.
What to do if bumps appear on the rabbit’s body
At an early stage, an animal with myxomatosis nodosa can be cured. Veterinarians recommend giving rabbits antibiotics and immunostimulants, which ones and in what dosage, the doctor should say. This disease is quite dangerous and contagious, so do not waste time on self-medication. As soon as the rabbit has a lump, even a single one, urgently show it to the doctor.
Opening cones are treated with an alcohol solution of iodine. If the animal has recovered, it is kept in quarantine for at least 3 months.
Preventive measures are essential. Rabbits need to be vaccinated annually. At the same time, timely cleaning of cages, proper care, nutrition, limitation of contact with strangers will help prevent the death of the livestock.