Fly Strike in Rabbits: Causes, Symptoms & Prevention

Rabbits are vulnerable to fly strike, a serious condition especially common in warmer months when flies lay eggs on soiled or damp fur. This guide covers causes, prevention, symptoms, and critical treatment for responsible pet ownership.

What is Fly Strike in Rabbits?

Fly strike, medically called myiasis, occurs when blowflies such as green or blue bottles lay eggs on a rabbit's fur, attracted by dampness, urine, faeces, wounds, or skin infections. The eggs hatch quickly into maggots that burrow into the skin, feeding on flesh and releasing toxins that can quickly be fatal if untreated.

How Fly Strike Develops and Risk Factors

• Flies target unclean, wet fur, especially around the rabbit's bottom and tail area.
• Rabbits with diarrhoea, urine-soaked fur, or open wounds are at higher risk.
• Older, overweight, or ill rabbits that struggle to groom themselves effectively are particularly vulnerable.
• The risk is highest during summer and early autumn when flies are most active.

Preventing Fly Strike: Essential Daily Care

Preventing fly strike requires daily vigilance and good hygiene to keep your rabbit clean and dry.

• Check your rabbit's bottom and fur at least twice daily, especially in summer, to spot any signs of fly eggs or dampness.
• Keep their living area clean by changing bedding and removing soiled straw daily to reduce fly attraction.
• Maintain a diet that avoids diarrhoea - limit fresh fruits and leafy greens accordingly.
• Regularly trim the fur around the rabbit's rear to prevent faeces and urine from sticking.
• Disinfect bowls, hutches, and runs at least twice a month to maintain hygiene.
• Consider fine mesh fly netting over hutches or runs to physically block flies.

Signs and Symptoms of Fly Strike

• Presence of eggs or maggots on the fur, especially around the anus.
• Unpleasant smell emanating from the infested area.
• Rabbits showing signs of pain, lethargy, reduced appetite, or hiding.
• Wet or matted fur that may indicate urine or diarrhoea contamination.
• Flies frequently found on or near your rabbit.

What to Do If You Suspect Fly Strike

Fly strike is a veterinary emergency. If you discover maggots or suspect infestation:

• Contact your vet immediately for urgent treatment.
• In the meantime, gently use a warm damp cloth to dislodge maggots if possible, but avoid wetting the entire rabbit as this can worsen their condition.
• Do not attempt to treat fly strike alone as sedation and specialised care are required for safe maggot removal and wound management.

Veterinary Treatment and Aftercare

Your vet will surgically remove maggots using sedation, shave affected fur, clean wounds thoroughly, and provide antibiotics and pain relief to aid recovery. Post-treatment, careful monitoring is essential. Support your rabbit by maintaining a clean environment and ensuring they are kept comfortable while healing.

Conclusion: Vigilance to Protect Your Rabbit

Fly strike is preventable through responsible care, routine cleaning, and daily checks, especially during the warmer months. Understanding risk factors and acting swiftly at the first signs will protect your rabbit from this painful and potentially fatal condition.