The only vaccination available for rabbits in Australia is Calicivirus. Calicivirus causes severe internal haemmorrhage which results in rapid death within 1-2 days. Depression, lethargy, neurological problems and anorexia may be noted before death. The virus can survive outside for long periods of time and is resistant to heat and cold. It is resistant to acid disinfectants but suspectible to ammonium based disinfectants. Transmission is mainly through direct contact with another infected rabbit or food and bedding but may also travel long distances in the air and through transfer from insects, birds and other animals. The vaccination protocol for calicivirus is at 10 weeks of age then yearly boosters. If vaccination is given before 10 weeks of age, then it is advised that a booster be done a month later.
Rabbits become sexually mature at 4 months of age. If you do not keep your male and female rabbits separated then you should desex them to avoid unwanted pregnancies. It is also important to desex two males housed together to avoid fighting. All females should be desexed as there is between 60-80% of female rabbits developing uterine cancer if not speyed by the age of 4-6 years.
Just like cats and dogs, fleas can also suffer the effects of flea infestation. Other common ectoparasites are the rabbit fur mite, which causes excess dandruff and hair loss, and the ear mite, causing ear wax buildup. Both fleas and mites can be treated with Revolution monthly.
Rabbits requires a high fibre diet for normal intestinal function. Wild rabbits would eat grass, plus a bit of bark or other tough-fibrous materials. A rabbit's diet should consist of at least 20% high fibre, around 15% moderate protein, 2-3% low fat and be abrasive to wear down the teeth. Nothing high is sugars should be given or bacterial overgrowth could occur in the gut. Although it is convenient to feed commerical rabbit pellets, this should be limited with unlimited fresh hay, grass and fibrous vegetables provided every day.
All pet rabbits should have daily exercise outside of the hutch. At least 4 hours free roam exercise daily is recommended, preferably with some time outside. A couple of hours in sunlight will also help bone formation and strengthening.