Myxomatosis in Rabbits

Myxomatosis, rabbit plague (Leporipoxvirus myxomatosis)

Attention: Myxomatosis is a deadly disease.

Protection against myxomatosis is possible through vaccination. Regular booster shots, spot-on treatments for mosquito protection, fly nets, and enhanced hygiene measures (see below) are ways to protect rabbits from the disease!

Myxomatosis is one of the most significant infectious diseases, with many rabbits in Germany dying annually from an infection with it.

Historically, it was often used to reduce overpopulations of wild rabbits. For example, in Australia, non-native, introduced rabbits multiplied rapidly (because they had no natural predators), and myxomatosis was intended to reduce this overpopulation. In 1952, the virus was spread in France, initially on an estate to combat the wild rabbit plague. Neighbors intentionally spread it to their lands, and the wild rabbits died in large numbers from the outbreak. Thus, the virus spread across Europe, and a year later, the first case was reported in Germany. Consequently, it was human intervention that played a significant role in introducing the virus, paving the way for its spread in nature.

The virus

The myxomatosis virus is a poxvirus, which is why it resembles smallpox in humans or other animal species, as well as the rare rabbit fibromatosis. However, myxomatosis is host-specific and only affects rabbits, with rare exceptions in (wild) hares. Rodents and guinea pigs can become infected, but they do not develop the disease.

The virus survives well in cold conditions and in a pH range of 4-12, which are ideal environmental conditions for it. When the virus is in a favorable environment, it can remain active for several months. It is especially dangerous in feces, dirt, or other cool materials, where it can persist for months. The virus is particularly active during the summer months because it is transmitted by insects (especially mosquitoes).

Transmission

The main carriers of the disease are biting mosquitoes and flies, which can transmit myxomatosis to healthy rabbits up to 36 days after contact with an infected rabbit. Other insects, such as rabbit fleas, ticks, and others, can also play a role. Rabbit fleas can transmit myxomatosis even after three months. Many animals can become infected with the virus and transmit it without getting sick themselves (humans, rodents, birds, etc.). Transmission can also occur through objects or from animal to animal (during mating, physical contact). Previously infected rabbits, even those that appear healthy again, can still spread the disease for up to six months. The denser the rabbit population, the higher the risk. Infection through contaminated food cannot be ruled out, especially for unvaccinated rabbits, if hay or grass is picked from areas inhabited by infected wild rabbits in disease-prone regions.

Symptoms: How to recognize Myxomatosis?

The first symptoms appear four to ten days after infection. While the symptoms can vary, inflammation (redness – conjunctivitis) and swelling of the eyelids are usually the first signs. These symptoms later spread to other parts of the body, particularly the head (especially the ears, nose, and lips, which can cause the head to appear deformed). Inflammation, swelling, and the formation of lumps are often observed in the anal area, genital organs, abdomen, back, and hind limbs. The purulent eye infections often lead to blindness. The condition is typically accompanied by mild to moderate fever and often bacterial secondary infections in the skin and lungs.

In the advanced stages, the animals experience difficulty breathing and swallowing. As a result, food intake is often reduced and eventually stopped due to the respiratory distress. The disease progresses rapidly, and without treatment, the animals usually become weak and emaciated, often dying within one to two weeks.

There are two main forms of the disease:

• The nodular form (lumps or nodules under the skin and subcutaneous tissue)

• The edematous form (fluid accumulates in the tissue, which cannot be sufficiently drained through the lymphatic system, causing water retention in the subcutaneous tissue, mainly in the facial area). This is the more severe form.
  In particularly aggressive cases, the animals often die within a few days or between the 8th and 15th day after infection, sometimes without showing the full disease symptoms. This can occur especially if secondary illnesses, like pneumonia, are involved.

Some rabbits experience milder forms of the disease, particularly vaccinated rabbits. These cases also involve inflammation and the formation of lumps, but to a much lesser extent. These animals have a relatively high chance of survival if they have a strong immune system.

Diagnosis

Milder forms of the disease are often confused with rabbit syphilis, infections caused by the papillomavirus, or rabbit cold (snuffles) and similar upper respiratory illnesses.

In severe cases, the diagnosis is usually clear. Chronic, milder forms can be further narrowed down through the process of eliminating differential diagnoses and conducting a biopsy.

Treatment

If there is a suspicion that a rabbit has contracted myxomatosis, it is important to consult a veterinarian experienced with rabbits as soon as possible.

Therapy: How is Myxomatosis treated?

From an animal welfare perspective, treatment is not always appropriate, as myxomatosis often causes the animal significant suffering. In cases of mild or moderate disease, or as long as the rabbit’s overall condition is still relatively stable, treatment can be attempted. However, if a very time-consuming and intensive treatment is not pursued, euthanasia should be considered. Allowing the animal to die from the disease is extremely painful and therefore not in accordance with our animal welfare laws.

Important: A rabbit with myxomatosis requires intensive care. Anyone choosing to treat the animal should be aware that it needs to be checked multiple times a day, and the treatment may need to be adjusted accordingly. Furthermore, administering medication and providing care is very time-consuming, and the animal’s condition can place significant emotional stress on the caregiver.

However, this intensive care is often worthwhile, especially in the nodular form, as recovery is possible over time!

Stabilization

• Infusions to stimulate circulation.

• Measuring fever and administering medication to lower it if necessary (in case of high fever). Mild fever helps to limit the pathogen. Metamizole (Novalgin) is commonly used as a fever reducer.

• Pain relief: For high fever and/or refusal to eat, Metamizole (Novalgin) is used. Otherwise, Meloxicam (Metacam) is administered, sometimes in combination.

• Oxygen for breathing difficulties.

Immune System:

• Paramunity inducers (e.g., Zylexis) to stimulate the immune system to fight the virus.

• Interferon stimulates the immune system and has antiviral effects against the pathogen.

• Rodicare Immun to support the immune system.

• Engystol to strengthen the immune system.

Pathogen Control:

Unfortunately, the pathogen cannot be fought as effectively as a bacterial infection with antibiotics. However, the body can be supported in combating the virus.

• Horseradish, radish leaves, and ginger are effective against viruses and also stimulate the immune system. Grated horseradish or crushed ginger is often willingly eaten when mixed with grated apple or mashed banana (start with a very small amount and gradually increase, as rabbits may refuse it if added in large quantities). Alternatively, ginger juice can be given. Radish leaves are often eaten willingly by rabbits and can be found as green manure or in supermarkets.

• Heat kills the pathogen and makes it harder for it to spread. Therefore, rabbits should be kept warm. In addition to a warm room temperature, a heat source (e.g., hot water bottle or heating pad) can be provided, which the rabbit can leave or return to as needed. If the rabbits were previously kept in cold conditions, the temperature should not be raised too abruptly. They should still be brought indoors (in winter, the heater can be turned down initially to help them acclimatize gradually).

• Colloidal silver not only kills bacteria but also viruses and is very well tolerated. It can be applied to the affected areas, inhaled, or administered orally.

• Angocin has antiviral properties, especially in the respiratory system.

• Antiviral drugs (virostatics) have unfortunately not yet been tested for myxomatosis treatment in rabbits.

Vaccination

An emergency vaccination is not recommended, as it can actually worsen the course of the disease!

Attention, fly larvae!

Rabbits weakened by myxomatosis are extremely vulnerable to fly strike due to the wounds all over their bodies. Therefore, to protect them from flies and keep them warm, they should be brought indoors and shielded from flies with fly nets. The wounds should also be checked multiple times a day during care. Otherwise, there is a risk that they will tragically die from fly larvae infestation.

Symptomatic Treatment (depending on symptoms):

The key to treatment is intensive care for the rabbits. Symptoms must be treated multiple times a day.

Care of the Myxomas:

• Skin Myxomas can be treated with Manuka honey or colloidal silver. Manuka honey is nourishing and antiviral, and is especially the treatment of choice in the initial stages! Colloidal silver has both antibiotic and antiviral properties. The affected areas on the eyes, ears, and other skin areas often respond well to colloidal silver. Wash the myxomas with it multiple times a day; they will dry out, darken, and eventually fall off.

• Myxomas on the eyelid margin: Eye drops or ointments are needed if the eyes are affected. Antiviral medications such as Ganciclovir (Virgan Gel®) and Aciclovir (Acivision®) can also be used, although the effectiveness of these treatments for myxomatosis is not well researched. Initially, ointments such as Bepanthen nasal and eye ointment or Bibrocathol (POSIFORMIN 2% eye ointment) can be applied. These are used in the early stages to fight the skin inflammation and support healing. Later, it is better to use colloidal silver, as ointments tend to be too greasy and prevent the pox from drying out and falling off.

Care of the Airways

• The nose must be kept clear if it is affected! Rabbits are nasal breathers, and they will experience breathing difficulties if their nose is blocked. This can quickly lead to pneumonia, and the animals may eat less, which can cause dangerous weight loss.

• To keep the nose clear, inhalation therapy is almost always required (with colloidal silver, saline solution, mucus thinners like Ambroxol, or thyme). Inhalation should be done multiple times a day. The ideal method is using a quiet cold nebulizer, which can be placed next to the rabbit so that it can inhale with minimal stress. Alternatively, a bowl inhalation can be used: place the rabbit in a transport box and position a bowl of hot water (with additives) in front of the box. A cloth placed over the box and the bowl will guide the steam into the transport box for the rabbit to inhale.

• Additionally, the nose should be cleared of crusts and secretions (soak, remove, and if necessary, use a baby nasal aspirator—preferably one with a vacuum attachment for the best suction). This helps keep the nose clear. Mucus thinners such as ACC and Bromhexine can be helpful as well. Baby nasal drops can also assist in making breathing easier.

• Feeding ginger and horseradish is also effective in keeping the nose clear. Ginger has anti-inflammatory effects on the eyes, airways, and throughout the body. It also boosts the immune system and helps clear the nose and loosen mucus. To encourage eating it, mix it with a favorite food like grated apple or mashed banana. Start with small amounts and gradually increase the quantity to avoid the mixture being rejected.

• Antibiotics (which do not affect the virus but prevent secondary infections) are often necessary, as affected rabbits can develop bacterial secondary infections, such as pneumonia caused by Pasteurella species or Staphylococcus aureus. This is typically accompanied by breathing difficulties (dyspnea). As soon as respiratory symptoms appear, antibiotics should be administered—usually Enrofloxacin (Orniflox, Baytril) due to its good tolerability and effectiveness.

• Corticosteroids should be used with caution, as rabbits do not tolerate them well. They are generally not recommended, but in cases of severe breathing difficulties, they may be necessary.

Care for Weight Loss and/or Loss of Appetite

• Supplemental feeding is necessary if the rabbits are not eating enough. This paste is administered with a needleless syringe inserted into the side of the mouth. If the rabbit has difficulty breathing, only a small amount should be given at a time to prevent choking and allow for easier breathing.

• However, before resorting to supplemental feeding, try offering a variety of foods, such as fresh herbs, treats, oats, dandelion, or banana.

• The food should be relatively high in energy to prevent weight loss. However, it is important to ensure that the increased energy intake does not cause yeast-related issues (diarrhea/cecotroph problems). The amount of energy-dense food (such as oats, seeds, soaked dry food, or banana) that can be tolerated varies from rabbit to rabbit.

• When breathing difficulties arise, eating becomes challenging. In these cases, offer energy-rich foods like fruit puree, oats, or soaked dry food. It can often help to hold the food up for the rabbit, as this allows it to eat more comfortably and breathe more easily.

• If the rabbit is eating poorly, warm full-electrolyte infusions (e.g., Ringer’s lactate) may be beneficial in addition to supplemental feeding.

Separating Healthy from Sick Animals

Although rabbits can be excellent caregivers and provide comfort, rabbits infected with myxomatosis should be kept separate from healthy rabbits and brought indoors. The high viral load can still infect healthy, vaccinated rabbits. If multiple rabbits are sick at the same time, they should be kept together.

Reintroducing Surviving Rabbits?

Rabbits that have survived myxomatosis continue to shed the virus. The length of time they remain contagious can vary. It is recommended to vaccinate the rabbits and initially only introduce other rabbits that have also survived the disease. After two months and a thorough disinfection of the environment, healthy rabbits can be introduced, provided they have been vaccinated multiple times.

The virus can survive in the environment for up to 220 days!

Disinfection after Myxomatosis

The following disinfectants, listed in column 7b (virucidal against enveloped viruses), are suitable for disinfection:
For example:

• Heat (above 60°C – e.g., strong sunlight, steam cleaners, flaming, or boiling water) kills the virus within minutes.
• Organic acids such as acetic acid (vinegar essence), formic acid, citric acid, etc., are effective with a 1-hour contact time.
  • StallDes by Schöpf (1% solution) with a 1-hour exposure time.
  • Halamid (1% solution) with a 1-hour exposure time.
  • Intercid (1% solution) with a 1-hour exposure time.

Typically, disinfection can only be carried out on washable items. Other equipment and shelters may need to be discarded or replaced. After disinfection, the enclosure should remain empty for a while or be treated with flame.

The soil should be dug out to a depth of at least 30 cm, and then paving stones can be placed. Pour boiling water over everything and leave the area empty for some time.
Alternatively, a new enclosure can be set up in a different area of the garden, as the virus can survive in the environment for up to 220 days.

When must the rabbit be euthanized?

Rabbits that are vaccinated multiple times, or even those vaccinated once with current protection, have a much better chance of surviving. Unvaccinated rabbits, depending on the strain (as there are variants of the virus with varying degrees of aggression), may have better or worse chances.

If the rabbit develops respiratory symptoms and struggles to breathe, intensive treatment (as described above) can initially be attempted to alleviate the symptoms. However, if this does not succeed and the rabbit continues to suffer, euthanasia must be considered to spare the animal from the cruel suffering of suffocation.

Deceased or euthanized rabbits that may have been infected with myxomatosis should not be buried, as the virus can survive in the soil and may resurface through soil movements, digging animals, etc., potentially triggering a new outbreak of myxomatosis. They must be disposed of through a veterinarian or cremated at an animal crematorium.

Prevention/Protective Measures

The primary measure here is the vaccination against myxomatosis, which should be reliably administered, especially in epidemic areas

Different vaccines are available (e.g., Nobivac Myxo-RHD PLUS and Rikka-Vacc Myxo), which, although they may not protect every rabbit from infection, significantly reduce the severity of the disease. As a result, most rabbits show no symptoms, and others experience only mild to moderate illness, thereby increasing the chances of survival for these rabbits as well.

Vaccination should always follow the instructions on the package, and depending on the vaccine, should be administered once or twice a year (ideally in the spring, and possibly again in the autumn). The vaccine’s protection lasts for six to nine months, or up to twelve months for some vaccines. For baby rabbits, a basic immunization (two vaccinations four weeks apart) is necessary, especially in areas where the disease is common, to ensure that rabbits who were not vaccinated with the first dose are protected. The vaccination is most effective when the rabbits are in good health and free from coccidia, worms, or other parasites (a parasitic stool test should be done before each vaccination).

Approved vaccines in Germany (live vaccines): CUNIVAK JET, CUNIVAK MYXO, Lapimed Myxo id, Riemser Myxomatose Vaccine, Lapimed RHD, RIKA-VACC Myxo dn, RIKA-VACC Myxo jet, RIKA-VACC Myxo

Approved combination vaccines (with RHD): NOBIVAC Myxo-RHD PLUS, CUNIVAK COMBO, Dercunimix, RIKA-VACC Duo [Paul Ehrlich Institute, 2005]

Vaccination Intervals in Epidemic Areas

Since the Myxomatosis vaccine does not always prevent infection, and in some rabbits, a milder form of Myxomatosis may develop, we recommend increasing protection in epidemic areas by administering a booster shot every four months.

Further Protective Measures:

• Maintain a stable rabbit population with minimal changes (e.g., avoid frequent introductions of new rabbits or holiday boarding).
• Prevent contact with wild rabbits or hares, even through fencing (use two fences with a safe gap between them).
• Quarantine new rabbits from uncertain or dubious origins (especially unvaccinated ones) for two to three weeks.
• Protect rabbits from insects, such as by installing fly screens on windows (for indoor housing) or covering outdoor enclosures with fine mesh.
• Fly protection is crucial for preventing various rabbit diseases (e.g., RHD2, Myxomatosis, Tularemia, flystrike). Using mosquito-repellent spot-on treatments, like Advantix, can be beneficial. Consult a rabbit-savvy vet for advice.
• Spot-on treatments:
  • Permethrin & Imidacloprid (Advantix®): Apply 10–30 mg/kg every two weeks to the skin at the neck (part the fur). A 40 mg spot-on is suitable for rabbits weighing 1.3–4 kg. Alternatively, for higher-dosage spot-ons, use 0.1 ml/kg. Mild skin reactions (e.g., hair loss, irritation) may occur in some rabbits.
  • Pyrethrum (Ixotan®)
  • Permethrin (Exspot®)
  • Deltamethrin (Butox® Protect 7.5 mg/ml pour-on): Apply evenly along the backline, from the base of the skull to the tail root, and reapply every 35 days.
  • Pyrethrum (Inuzid-Spray®): Spray daily onto your hand or a cloth and rub into the fur, especially in vulnerable areas.
  • Fluralaner (Bravecto®): The duration of effectiveness is not yet clearly defined.
• Be cautious with grass, hay, and vegetables: Grass from meadows frequented by wild rabbits or hares is particularly dangerous in outbreak areas. Even pre-packaged hay, supermarket vegetables, or dry food may originate from regions affected by Myxomatosis. For the safest feeding, opt for tree leaves and branches, as these grow higher above ground.
• Take extra precautions if Myxomatosis is reported in your area: Avoid borrowing or sharing equipment with other rabbit owners, minimize contact with other rabbit owners or rabbits, and take special care during vet visits.
• Do not feed household pets (e.g., dogs, cats) uncooked rabbit or hare meat, as this could spread the virus.
• Practice good hygiene: Wash your hands after returning home or before handling your rabbits.
• After contact with other rabbits, wash your hands thoroughly and change clothes.
• Leave shoes outside the house or switch to indoor shoes upon returning home.
• Only purchase second-hand equipment and enclosures from trustworthy sources, or disinfect them thoroughly using effective disinfectants.

Vaccination Myxomatosis and Other Side Effects of the Vaccine

Rabbits that are not completely healthy at the time of vaccination (e.g., due to underlying or hidden illnesses) are at a higher risk of experiencing side effects. Rabbits with a history of respiratory infections (snuffles) may develop mild respiratory symptoms after the vaccination. A swelling at the injection site is also a common side effect.

In rare cases, some rabbits may develop so-called vaccine-induced myxomatosis, a mild form of myxomatosis with similar but much less severe symptoms. Treatment usually involves the use of paramunity inducers or immune-boosting agents (e.g., Engystol, Zylexis). Most rabbits recover quickly from vaccine-induced myxomatosis. However, improper treatment or a severely weakened immune system can result in fatalities.

The myxomatosis vaccine is generally well tolerated, particularly when the rabbits are in excellent health. To minimize side effects, the following precautions should be taken:

Ensure the rabbit is completely healthy before vaccination.
Perform a fecal test to check for parasites prior to vaccination.
Avoid vaccinating during periods of stress (e.g., bonding, relocation), extreme heat, or freezing temperatures.
By following these guidelines, the risk of adverse reactions to the vaccine can be significantly reduced, and most rabbits will benefit from the protection it provides.

Treatment Progress: Before and After

The lesion (pox) near the eye was treated with eye ointment to support healing. Over time, the pox dried up and eventually fell off:

Now to the Case Reports…

Myxomatosis Treatment for Amanda

Amanda was 5.5 months old at the time of her illness. She came to our shelter as a hand-raised rabbit and was vaccinated with Nobivac PLUS at 7 weeks old. By the time she fell ill, nearly 4 months had passed since her vaccination. Of her two companions with the same vaccination status, one showed extremely mild symptoms (no swelling, no fever, and only about 5 pox lesions scattered across the body), while the other showed no symptoms at all.

Day 1:

October 3, 2021 (Evening – Day 1):
Amanda begins showing the first symptoms: swelling around the eyelids, the base of the ears, and the genital area. She also has a mild fever. Amanda is immediately separated from her brothers, and after consulting with our veterinarian, we initiate treatment.

Treatment Plan:

Medications: Baytril (antibiotic), Zylexis (administered on Days 1, 2, and 4), Rodicare Immun.
Supportive Care: Ringer-Lactate infusions to maintain hydration.
Environment: Her quarantine area is heated, and warm Snuggle Safe heating pads are provided for additional comfort.
Amanda’s temperature is monitored hourly as it continues to rise. To manage this, she is given Novalgin (pain reliever and fever reducer) every 4-6 hours.

Despite being lethargic, Amanda has a good appetite and is eating well.

Weight: 2430 g.

Days 2–4

The next day, Amanda’s eyes begin to show slight pus formation, requiring treatment with Posiformin eye ointment 3–4 times a day. Her fever remains high, so she continues to receive Novalgin every 4 hours, which reduces her temperature to 40.5°C. In addition to the ongoing treatment, she is now given Angocin tablets, and her eyes are flushed several times daily with colloidal silver. On the third day, we also start an interferon therapy with injections administered three times per week. Her breathing remains normal, and she continues to eat well.

Day 5-6:

Her mouth swells severely, and Amanda develops edema across her entire face and genital area. She can only consume softened and grated food now; her usual greens are grated and mixed with soaked Cunis. Finally, her fever drops, and she only receives Novalgin as needed, following frequent temperature checks, as a slight fever is beneficial for fighting the virus. Her eyes are completely swollen and oozing, requiring frequent cleaning.

Day 7

New pox develop almost hourly, and her fur starts to fall out. All pox are treated several times a day with colloidal silver.

Day 8-9

First respiratory symptoms appear, so she receives inhalations with colloidal silver/NaCl/ACCInject 3-4 times a day, alternating. Mucolytics are also given orally, and baby nasal drops are used as needed.

Day 10

Amanda is having great difficulty breathing through her nose. The first scabs form on her right eye, and her entire face is covered in edema. Her temperature remains stable.

Day 11-17

Her breathing continues to worsen, and new myxomas appear on her chin and legs.

Day 18

Her breathing worsens further, especially under stress, showing pronounced mouth breathing. Due to the swollen mouth, she struggles to eat but continues to consume softened Cunis and finely shredded greens/vegetables. The first consideration of euthanasia arises, but after consulting with the vet, we decide to keep fighting, as she is still eating and not appearing apathetic.

Day 19-21

Mostly strained mouth breathing, as she can no longer breathe through her nose. She continues to eat on her own, with no weight loss (on the contrary, Amanda has gained weight). Additional administration of Metacam, as the first scabs begin to loosen. The eye ointment is switched to Acivision.

Day 22-26

Slight improvement, thick mucus can be suctioned from her nose using a baby nasal aspirator. Combined with a second mucus thinner. Occasionally, she takes a breath through her nose. The pox are slowly turning into black scabs, and her face has significantly swollen down. Amanda seems more energetic and no longer seeks out the warmth of the Snuggle Safes, which she had been gravitating towards before.

Day 27

Many of the scabs are now coming off. For the large scabs, the edges and the area underneath (as far as possible) are treated with a hydrogel. Once they come off, the spot is cleaned with Rivanol and then cared for with Mielosan for several days. New pox are forming in the nostrils, and her breathing worsens again. The large scabs around the mouth are treated with Bepanthen nasal ointment to soften them—these are large patches that are very bothersome to her when eating.

Day 28

The breathing worsens again: almost exclusively mouth breathing, the myxomas in the nose are severely swollen, and she is eating less. In consultation with the veterinarian, corticosteroid nasal drops are administered. Thick discharge accumulates in the whitish pox in the nose, and this must be carefully removed with a thin cotton swab before and after inhalation. The breathing is so poor that we once again consider euthanasia. However, since she continues to eat, and her temperature and weight remain stable, we decide to continue fighting for her recovery.

Day 29

Amanda’s breathing improves very slowly. There are days when she gets better airflow through her nose, and days with predominant mouth breathing. The smaller scabs are gradually coming off, and the areas underneath are sometimes weeping with a yellowish discharge.

Day 30-35

Continued slow improvement in breathing, and intensive care continues with inhalations, etc. Now, the demanding care of the shedding poxes adds to the routine. Particularly the thick scabs on the eyes, ear base, and mouth are shedding very slowly. The right eye is causing the most concern and needs to be rinsed several times a day as pus collects beneath the scabs.

Day 36-38

Most of the poxes have already fallen off, and only the eyes and mouth remain crusted. A localized inflammation is developing under the right eye, where there was a particularly large myxoma. Frequent cleaning with Rivanol and application of Mielosan. With the improved breathing, Amanda is now eating fresh greens again.

Day 39-46

The thick crusts on the left eye and around the mouth are slowly starting to detach. Only the right eye still has a thick crust on the eyelid. The eye is also still oozing and must continue to be flushed and treated with Posiformin. Otherwise, Amanda’s condition is improving significantly; she is eating larger amounts of greens, gaining weight, and becoming noticeably more active.

Day 47

Amanda removes the last crust from her right eye herself. A piece of her eyelid is missing, and the eye is being treated with antibiotic ointment and additionally with Corneregel, as she has sustained a superficial corneal injury from the crust.

Day 48-51

Amanda’s condition continues to improve, her fur is growing back, and she is eating well. Her breathing is better, but still not optimal. She only breathes through her mouth during stress, but otherwise, she has labored flank breathing. We reduce the inhalations to twice a day.

Day 61

Amanda’s general condition has improved significantly; she is playing again and hopping around. Her breathing is still labored, but it is much better compared to before. After inhalations, a lot of mucus can now be suctioned out, especially from the right nostril. The eyelid on her right eye is scarred, and the eye is now almost “triangular” in shape. Most medications can be stopped (except for the antibiotic), and the most important steps now are inhalation and suctioning the mucus.

Day 70

The treatment continues with inhalations and suctioning, and the antibiotics can be discontinued. Additionally, the tear duct is flushed every two days. The access to the right eye seems to be scarred, while the left side remains clear. Amanda’s overall condition is very good, but she will only be reunited with her two separated companions in about three weeks to allow her to continue recovering.

Day 75

The treatment continues, and Amanda’s breathing improves a little each day. Her fur has grown back, and she is in great spirits. Weight: 2890g.

Conclusion

If your rabbit is fighting, please fight with it. It’s incredibly difficult to watch, but there is a chance. Enduring mouth breathing is probably the worst part (for both the rabbits and the humans), as it indicates acute respiratory distress, which is heartbreaking. What helped me a lot was documenting the facts: Is the rabbit eating? What is its weight and temperature? These are good indicators to assess whether you can continue fighting. The exchange of experiences in the Myxomatosis group on Facebook also helped me greatly. With this disease, you have to make decisions one day at a time, and during the worst phases, sometimes even hour by hour. I’m incredibly thankful that Amanda always showed her will to live! She continued eating on her own and, during the treatment, even gained almost half a kilogram (since she’s still growing). One must realize that the care is very time-consuming and exhausting. It took two full months before significant progress was visible, and her breathing slowly improved. As a small, entirely volunteer-run shelter with just two people managing the rabbits, we definitely reached our limits. But when I see Amanda hopping around today, I’m so glad we persevered. It’s worth holding on!

Myxomatosis Treatment of Felix

At the time of the illness, Felix was 3.5 years old and unvaccinated.

“If you notice that your bunnies are fighting, help them. It is possible for them to survive myxomatosis.”

Owner Natalie of Felix

“Our ‘journey’ began on August 12, 2021. We took in two stray animals, and they were infected, passing the disease on to our Felix. Since they were still the property of the veterinary clinic, they decided to have them euthanized. When Felix became ill, I started looking for solutions and came across this group. During his treatment, Felix was given antibiotics twice, as well as an immune-boosting injection from the vet. He also received pain relief, silver water orally, Euphrasia eye drops, Arnica globules, Lymphomyosat in his drinking water, Echinacea syrup orally, and we did up to four inhalations a day. I treated his skin with Bepanthen eye and nose ointment, and in between, I used Sanacutan Basic Ointment to keep the pox soft. Since he had large pox on his eyes, I also applied antibiotic eye ointment for four days around week six. There were times when I doubted, and at one point, I felt like the pox were spreading more each day. He also had a very strong odor, which improved as the pox started to fall off. A noticeable improvement came after I fed him wild horseradish leaves. I regularly sprayed his genital area with silver water. Throughout this time, Felix always ate on his own and showed a strong will to live. He had some severe breathing issues for a few days, and as the weather turned colder, he lost weight. I decided to bring him inside, and the company and energy-rich food seemed to help him a lot. I also added vitamins to his drinking water instead of the Lymphomyosat. The pox dried up, and I was able to remove them, or they fell off by themselves. If you notice your bunnies are struggling, please help them. It is possible for them to survive myxomatosis.”

Myxomatosis Treatment of Ebony

Ebony was vaccinated, which helped prevent a severe course of the disease, allowing her to be treated. She fell ill in October and was fully recovered by Christmas. In addition to the visible pox, she also had some on her back and head, which are not shown. She has a mild cold remaining, but otherwise, she is healthy. Ebony was treated with a variety of methods, including eye ointment, antibiotics, inhalations, Rodicare, and silver water.

Myxomatosis Treatment of Peter and Emi

“I believe that with this disease, it is crucial for the owners not to give up, even when it seems hopeless at times.”

Owner of Peter and Emi

The two were vaccinated 11 months before the illness and given to the owner, but no proof of vaccination was provided. The other rabbits of the owner, who were vaccinated, did not fall ill.

Experience Report on the Treatment of 24 Rabbits with Myxomatosis Using Colloidal Silver Water
(20 Rabbits Survived!)

Colloidal Silver:
Colloidal silver is a controversial treatment. Its effectiveness for external use is scientifically proven, as it kills bacteria and viruses. Our personal experience with colloidal silver shows that it is highly effective and entirely free of side effects when used externally. However, it is not a “cure-all” or “miracle remedy” and does not work for all conditions. The side effects often highlighted in reports are usually due to the ingestion of pure silver or in high doses. Colloidal silver contains only silver colloids, ultra-fine particles just slightly larger than an atom, meaning the body (even with high doses) does not absorb harmful amounts of silver. We have had very good results, for example, with eye infections, abscesses, infections, and skin conditions.

Key Takeaway:
Experiences with Myxomatosis and colloidal silver show that it is incredibly effective and significantly increases survival rates.

How Was It Treated?
For treating my rabbits, I used homemade colloidal silver water at a concentration of 25 ppm. The recommended dosage is 2 ml of 25 ppm per kg of body weight. In addition, I gave the rabbits half a tablet of Engystol (for humans) daily for 1-2 weeks. Some rabbits took the tablet by placing it in their cheek, while for others, I dissolved the tablet in water and gave it to them orally using an insulin syringe without a needle.

Additionally, as soon as respiratory issues started, I used 25 ppm colloidal silver water with a Pariboy (cold nebulizer) for inhalation three times a day. I also recommend that, if breathing problems occur, you consult a vet for an antibiotic injection and ask the vet to show you how to administer the injection at home in order to reduce stress.

How It All Started…
At the end of October 2012, I noticed that several of my rabbits had cloudy eyes and mild swelling of the eyelids. Some also had runny noses. Since it was after the vet’s office hours and the next day was a public holiday, I searched the internet and quickly realized that it was Myxomatosis.

My rabbits were not vaccinated. Upon closer examination, I also found swollen genitals and small myxoma lumps, especially on the ears.

Since I mostly found negative reports — where most animals were euthanized or died despite treatment — I decided to start fighting the disease with colloidal silver. I had been familiar with colloidal silver for some time and believed that, because it works against viruses, bacteria, fungi, and single-celled organisms, and also boosts the immune system and promotes wound healing, it would be ideal to combat the Myxomatosis virus.

I would have liked to isolate my animals to prevent further infections, but by then, 5-6 of the rabbits already showed clear symptoms, and I couldn’t safely quarantine 24 rabbits for several months. The mosquitoes, which are the main carriers of the disease, were still swarming at that time.

Healthy and Sick Rabbits Together in the Enclosure:

I began administering colloidal silver water orally to my sick rabbits, also using it as eye drops and in a nasal spray bottle for their noses. I carefully removed the crusts from their eyes and noses and gently flushed their eyes with the nasal spray bottle. I did this up to three times a day as needed. It was very important to me to remove the crusts from their eyes and noses, as beneath them, a lot of yellow, sticky discharge was building up, which caused inflammation.

The progression of the Myxomatosis infection varied greatly in severity. It took between one to three months for the rabbits to recover. The milder cases had slightly swollen, crusted eyes and mildly blocked noses, and after about four weeks, the illness was over.

The more severe cases had extremely swollen eyes, with the eyelids barely open. In addition, a constant discharge was produced, and the eyes were completely closed. The same was true for the nose. In some rabbits, it formed a large crust, which I continuously peeled off and cleaned. At this stage, you can’t clean the eyes often enough to prevent permanent damage. But even these rabbits were still hopping around in their enclosure.

In some of my rabbits, corneal opacity occurred at the same time, which made constant application of colloidal silver water very important. Two rabbits with particularly severe eye conditions also developed an iris ulcer. Both of them also experienced an iris prolapse. However, I persistently continued to rinse the eyes with colloidal silver water, and this helped preserve their eyes. In one rabbit, the iris prolapse remained small, and it can even see a little, although limited, with that eye. In the other, the eye regenerated over several months to the point that it remained blind, but it now has a smooth eyeball again.

Monsta’s iris prolapse, acute and after healing (smooth again):

The rabbits that also had heavily crusted eyes and noses mostly developed severe breathing problems. This looked like them sitting still for up to about a week, breathing through their mouths. During this time, I was most afraid to enter the enclosure, as I didn’t want to find a dead rabbit. I can only advise you to act immediately if you notice they are developing pneumonia!

The transition is so gradual at this stage! Try to get a Pariboy (a nebulizer) and let the rabbits inhale colloidal silver water three times a day!

It’s best to additionally inject antibiotics to prevent this.

But I have witnessed some animals surviving this severe stage! During this time, also check if your rabbits’ bellies stay soft, as they can barely eat and may also develop bloating (in this case, give them Saab, Lefax, Dimeticon, or similar several times a day). None of my rabbits developed bloating.

My worst myxomatosis patient was my rabbit Alois. He was the last to fall ill and had hazelnut-sized myxomas along his spine and on his front paws, where the fur fell out. His eyes and nose were completely crusted over. Since he was losing his fur, I had to bring him with a companion to our laundry room. He also developed the severe breathing issue and pneumonia set in. He was given antibiotics for about 7 days, and after a short break, he started wheezing again, so he received another round of antibiotics for about 7 days in addition to the colloidal silver water.

Alois’s medical history in pictures:

Before healthy (1st photo), sick on January 26, 2013 (2nd photo), after cleaning the eyes (6th photo), myxomas on the leg and back (already crusted) (7th and 8th photos, February 14th and 26th), crusts loosening and falling off (10th and 11th photos, March 6th and 17th). Alois still has scars but is otherwise healthy and happy!

After about two months, the myxomas on the little legs and back began to be replaced by crusts, and after 2.5 months, the crusts on the eyes and nose started to fall off on their own. That was the moment when I knew for sure it was over, and I continued to drop colloidal silver water into the nose and eyes until no secretion came out and nothing was red anymore. I also continued administering oral silver water until that point.

In total, four of my rabbits passed away:

1. Gewitterwolke, 1 year old, two unplanned litters in May/June 2012, had just overcome the severe breathing difficulties after five weeks of illness, with both eyes and the nose crusted over. She suffered a severe setback overnight and died shortly after being discovered, probably from pneumonia.

2. Die Kurze, 1 year old, an unplanned litter with 6 stillborns, the last stillborn had to be delivered by me. She likely had a congenital pelvic deformity and also a uterine infection after the birth, making her very vulnerable. She showed the first symptoms in her eyes on the 4th day, but did not yet receive colloidal silver, only daily Engystol. She died overnight without showing visible problems.

3. Zahnfeh, born December 27, 2012, 6 months old, had a congenital dental misalignment, which made him slightly underweight. When the first symptoms appeared, he had just had his cheek and incisor teeth trimmed and was supposed to gain weight for a “dental procedure under anesthesia.” He died after a 4-week struggle.

4. Felix, about 11 years old, had swollen eyes, mild eye and nasal discharge, and his breathing had recently worsened. Unfortunately, he passed away about one week after the onset of the illness.”

Health Consequences of Myxomatosis Recovery in My Rabbits:

• Some rabbits have clouding of the cornea in one or both eyes.

• Some have scarred tear ducts, which sometimes causes a buildup of fluid in the eye. This can be gently massaged out when necessary.

• Some have scarring in the nasal passages, leading to more frequent sneezing.

• Various small scars on the eyelids and noses.