Testing has confirmed that dead feral rabbits, found in the Comox Valley, suffered from rabbit haemorrhagic disease, caused by a calicivirus.

Feral rabbits in Nanaimo and Delta also have died from the disease. All dead rabbits have been feral European or domestic rabbits, so pet rabbits are at risk. Rabbit haemorrhagic disease is an extremely infectious and lethal disease of rabbits.

This is the third confirmed diagnosis of this virus in Canada, and the first in British Columbia. The disease is exclusive to rabbits. Humans and other animals, including dogs and cats, cannot be infected. The virus affects only European rabbits, and is not known to affect native North American rabbits.

B.C. veterinarians will have access to vaccinations for the disease in the coming weeks, and will be able to vaccinate pet rabbits. Pet owners should monitor their rabbits daily for signs of illness, and contact their veterinarian immediately with any concerns.

The virus causes hemorrhages by affecting the blood vessels, and attacks the liver and other organs. Most affected rabbits die suddenly, but can show signs of listlessness, lack of co-ordination, changes in behaviour, or trouble breathing before death. There is often bleeding from the nose at the time of death. Once infected, signs of illness occur quickly, usually within one to nine days.

While there is no threat to humans, in addition to rabbit owners taking precautions, the public is advised not to move domestic rabbits into the wild at any time. As well, rabbit owners should take precautions when disposing of any rabbit remains.

Rabbit owners who want more information about how to keep their pets safe can consult with their veterinarian, or review an SPCA factsheet on rabbit hemorrhagic disease online: http://spca.bc.ca/news/bc-spca-suspends-intake-of-rabbits-due-to-disease/