Flystrike In Rabbits: How To Treat It & How To Prevent It
Flystrike, which is known more to farmers, is an infestation when fly eggs are laid and hatched in a rabbit’s fur.
While it may be uncomfortable to face, it’s important to prevent or treat because if ignored, it can result in infection and even death.
Like many things, prevention is the key because treatment is much more difficult.
Also known as myiasis, flystrike is when flies lay eggs in your rabbit’s fur. Then, the eggs hatch into maggots that burrow into your rabbit’s skin to grow and eat the surrounding tissue.
There are different types of maggots (fly larvae), with botflies, blue bottle flies, and green-bottle flies being the most common culprits of flystrike in rabbits.
Botflies are the most dangerous. These maggots burrow deep inside of the skin and grow inside the tissue of your rabbit, creating open, painful sores.
Not only is flystrike in rabbits just plain gross, but it can also become quite dangerous for rabbits, who are sensitive to infection.
If the maggots do burrow into your rabbit’s skin, it can become fatal within just 24 hours.
This usually happens during the summer when flies are rampant.
It's more likely if your rabbits live inside of a dirty enclosure, have open wounds, or a buildup of urine or feces in their fur.
It can also happen if you leave fruits or veggies on the ground, and they're caught up in your rabbit's feet or bottom.
While rabbits that go outside or live outside are much more likely to be affected, finding flystrike in rabbits that live indoors is possible.
Symptoms are usually pretty easy to spot with a close inspection. Finding fly eggs or actual maggots in your rabbit’s coat is a sure sign.
Other signs your rabbit could have flystrike:
Open sores that are attracting flies.Sores or wounds that don’t heal.Wet or bald patches of fur. A foul odor.Low energy level.Lack of appetite.
How to Treat Flystrike
Clip the fur that is covered in feces and urine. Then inspect the area. If there are no maggots or open sores, remove any visible eggs. If you see maggots or open sores, take your rabbit straight to the vet.
Prevention is much better than treatment because of how fast it turns fatal. In reality, it can go completely unnoticed, if you’re not careful.
How to Prevent Flystrike
Health check your rabbit daily.Protect and treat open wounds.Keep your rabbit and its cage clean.Feed your rabbit lots of fiber.Regular vet checks.
When it comes to flystrike in rabbits, prevention is key.As long as your rabbits are clean and healthy, you really shouldn’t have to worry about them.