The “Fatal Five” are a group of particularly dangerous illnesses, diseases or conditions that can happen to pet rabbits. These range from highly contagious viral diseases to severe digestive and parasitic emergencies, which can progress with such alarming speed, sometimes turning a subtle change in behavior into a life-threatening or even fatal emergency within hours. While the “Fatal Five” represent some of the most urgent and widely discussed threats to rabbit health, they are not the only conditions that rabbit guardians should be aware of.

By understanding the warning signs and underlying causes of these illnesses and conditions,  you will be able to respond quickly, seek veterinary care, and create a home environment that supports prevention. With awareness, early recognition, and timely veterinary support, many rabbits can receive help when it matters most.

NOTE: Any time your rabbit exhibits unusual behaviors or symptoms, it is cause for concern. It could be indicative of illness and should never be taken lightly. Err on the side of caution and get to your exotic vet immediately.

The “Fatal Five”

Each of these fatal 5 illnesses affects the rabbit’s body in a different way—some are viral diseases, while others are digestive or parasitic emergencies. What they share in common is the need for rapid recognition and immediate action. Understanding how these conditions develop, what warning signs to watch for, and how to reduce risk through thoughtful care can make a meaningful difference in your rabbit’s safety and wellbeing.

Rabbit Hemorrhagic Disease (RHDV1 & 2)

Rabbit Hemorrhagic Disease Virus, often abbreviated as RHDV, is one of the most fatal diseases to ever affect rabbits. It is a highly contagious viral illness that affects both wild and domestic rabbits. Caused by a calicivirus, this disease can spread rapidly through direct contact, contaminated surfaces, insects, and even materials carried indoors on clothing or shoes. In some cases, infected rabbits may show only subtle signs before becoming critically ill. Understanding how the virus spreads, recognizing potential symptoms, and taking preventative measures are essential steps in protecting domestic rabbits from this serious disease.

Symptoms: Fever, shortness of breath, loss of appetite, listlessness, neurological signs such paddling, seizures, and paralysis, jaundice, blood spots in eyes, sudden death with bleeding from nose at time of death

Treatment: There is no cure for this disease which is why it is ultimately fatal. Prevention is key: there are vaccines for both strains and biosecurity is a must especially if you are aware of any local outbreak. You can read a full article on RHDV here.

Myxomatosis

Myxomatosis, first discovered in 1896, is a disease cause by the myxoma virus (member of the poxvirus family). This virus has an extremely high mortality rate. Australia introduced this fatal virus to wild rabbits in the 1950’s as a form of population control. Those few rabbits that survived the decimation have since repopulated the continent. While more common in certain regions and wild rabbit populations, domestic rabbits remain vulnerable under the right conditions.

It is most commonly transmitted through parasites such as mosquitoes, fleas and tics as well as fur mites. It can also be caught by injuries sustained outside such as scratches from contaminated thorns or brambles. Pet rabbits are actually more vulnerable than their wild counterparts, as the latter have had time to develop a genetic resistance.

Symptoms: Severe swelling (abscesses or benign tumors) around eyes, ears, nose and genitalia, conjunctivitis, skin lesions, fever, lethargy and respiratory complications. Although some rabbits may die as early as 48 hours, this disease usually becomes fatal between days 8 and 15 after symptoms appear.

Tests: Initial diagnosis is based on clinical signs, followed by bloodwork and tissue samples for confirmation.

Treatment: There are 2 strains of Myxomatosis- an aggressive more virulent and a chronic. Chances of survival for the aggressive form is close to zero and most veterinarians will suggest humane euthanasia. Should treatment be chosen, the rabbit should remain in veterinary care. Tumors can be removed surgically, they must be kept in a warm environment, fluid therapy and meds such as antibiotics and anti-inflammatories will be given. Secondary infections such as respiratory illness, pneumonia and septicemia often occur. As far as the chronic strain, rabbits tend to recover on their own in 3-5 weeks. Antibiotics should be given to reduce chance of secondary infection.

Prevention is key: While there is a vaccine in some parts of the world, unfortunately the United States does not have one at this time. Most US cases occur on the west coast. People in these areas are recommended to administer monthly flea treatments such as Selemectin. Awareness of insect control, environmental management (keep your rabbit indoors) and reduce risk of contamination from wild rabbits is the most helpful thing you can do for your rabbit.

Gastrointestinal (GI) Stasis (Ileus)

The digestive system of a rabbit is delicately balanced and designed for the constant processing of high-fiber plant material. When this system slows or stops functioning properly, a condition known as gastrointestinal stasis, or GI stasis, can develop. Because a rabbit’s digestive system is closely tied to their overall health, disruptions can quickly become serious, even fatal, without timely intervention. A rabbit who does not eat or put out fecal matter within 12-24 hours needs to be seen immediately.

It is important to note that rather than being a single disease, GI stasis is often the result of underlying factors. Stress or psychological triggers (loss of bonded companion, separation from owner, move to new territory), dehydration, dietary imbalances, pain from underlying conditions (gas, joint disease, fractures, etc.), molar issues (overgrowth, abscess), urinary tract disorders (infection, bladder sludge), soft tissue problems (tumors or abscesses), parasites (coccidiosis) or intestinal blockage (undigested food, foreign matter e.g. carpet) can all trigger stasis. Food should not be forced until a diagnosis is made. It could further impact your rabbit’s condition.

Symptoms: Decreased appetite, abnormal fecal production, hunched posture, tooth grinding, shallow rapid respirations, loud abdominal gurgling or lack of sound altogether, hypothermia or fever.

Treatment: Treatment will be dependent based on the factor of cause. At the vets office your doctor may regulate temperature, administer analgesics and fluids, restore motility with Cisapride and Metoclopramide, give vitamin B-complex as an appetite stimulant and syringe feed. Once home you will need to administer oral medications, continue syringe feeding, possibly administer subcutaneous fluids, administer pediatric simethicone, abdominal massage and monitor intake/output. It can take up to 2 weeks for a rabbit to fully recover. This can be highly fatal if a rabbit is not seen by your vet.

Flystrike (Myiasis)

Flystrike, also known as Myiasis, occurs when flies lay eggs on a rabbit’s fur or skin. Typically in areas that are moist, dirty, inflamed, damaged (open wounds) or near openings such as genitals. When the eggs hatch, the resulting maggots can rapidly invade the skin and burrow into surrounding tissues and organs, creating a life-threatening emergency. Flystrike is an extremely painful condition as the rabbit is literally being eaten alive. This condition can develop surprisingly quickly, especially during warm weather. Early treatment can result in good recovery however, Flystrike can develop within 24 hours and can quickly become fatal if not treated appropriately.

Flystrike commonly affects rabbits that are obese, have arthritis, live in dirty conditions, have feces or urine scald, have dental disease, have large dewlaps, have abscesses, and takes place during warmer weather. While the risk is lower for rabbits that live indoors, they can still be affected. Outdoor rabbits need extra vigilance in their care especially in the warmer months. There are several species of fly that can cause Flystrike: Bot Flies, Blow Flies, Cuterebra, Gadflies, Flesh flies and Fox Maggot. Each fly can lay up to 200 eggs which hatch within 24 hours.

Symptoms: The presence of maggots (whitish or yellowish), lethargy, decreased appetite, tooth grinding, decreased grooming, foul odor, infected wounds and red, swollen or ulcerated skin.

Treatment: A rabbit will usually hospitalized for treatment. They will need to be sedated for the maggot removal which is painful, and then receive supportive care consisting of fluids, heat regulation and critical care feeding. Many wounds have secondary infections so they will receive antibiotics, pain management and wound cleaning. Careful grooming, clean living environments ( install Fly Screens), and regular health checks are important preventative measures.

Intestinal Illnesses

A rabbit’s intestinal tract relies on beneficial microorganisms to maintain proper digestion and nutrient absorption. When this balance is disrupted—whether by stress, dietary changes, viruses, pathogenic bacteria, or parasitic organisms—the result can be a range of intestinal illnesses, often fatal especially for young rabbits. 

Bacterial Enteritism (Enterotoxemia): is caused by the bacteria Clostridium perfringens. The toxins produced by the bacteria can invade the intestine producing diarrhea. Symptoms may include lack of energy, rough coat, staining around the hind end, and death within 48 hours. Treatment consists of fluids (oral or subcutaneous) for dehydration and supportive care. Diet might be a factor in the cause of this as it is seen less in rabbits with a high fiber diet.

Tyzzer’s Disease: is caused by the bacteria Clostridium piliforme. This infection typically affects recently weaned rabbits and is spread by eating contaminated food or droppings. It is associated with poor sanitation and stress. Symptoms include loss of appetite, dehydration, loss of energy, staining of the hindquarters, diarrhea and death within 1-3 days.

Colibacillosis: There are 2 types of this disease which is caused by the bacteria Escherichia coli. The first affects rabbits 1-2 weeks old with a severe yellowish diarrhea that is often fatal. The second affects rabbits 4-6 weeks old after weaning with diarrhea. Death often occurs between 5-14 days after onset. Some rabbits may survive but are unhealthy and will have stunted growth.

Mucoid Enteritis: This a severe digestive disorder characterized by intestinal inflammation and the production of thick mucus within the intestines. The cause is unknown, but potential factors could be from nutritional deficiencies (recent dietary changes, too much or too little fiber in the diet), antibiotic treatment, environmental stress, or bacterial overgrowth. Symptoms can include watery feces mixed with mucous (gelatinous substance), loss of appetite, loss of energy, low body temperature, dehydration, rough coat, and often a bloated abdomen due to excess water in the stomach. It can become fatal within a week.

Coccidiosis: This a highly contagious condition caused by single celled microscopic organisms (protozoan). There are 2 forms: hepatic (liver) and intestinal. It is spread through ingestion of contaminated food or water. Symptoms consist of lack of appetite, depression, abdominal pain, and pale, watery mucous membranes  and a rough coat. Death may occur after a short illness.

Intestinal Coccidiosis is more commonly seen in 5 week to 6 month old rabbits. Stress, noise, transportation and a suppressed immune system can all be factors. Symptoms are rough coat, dullness, decreased appetite, dehydration, and loss of weight and diarrhea. A 20% or more weight loss leads to a fatal ending within 24 hours.

This parasite has a 4-14 day lifecycle beginning when the contaminated food or water is ingested. The oocytes travel through the digestive tract breaking down in the stomach releasing spores, which then divide and infect other cells in the intestine, until it turns into a gamete that is then expelled through the feces.

Prevention is key for this condition: provide dry pellets instead of moist ones, wash fresh vegetables, ensure access to plenty of fresh water and feed multiple rabbits separately.

Other Significant Illnesses, Diseases or Conditions

Rabbits can also be affected by a range of other illnesses and environmental challenges that may develop gradually or arise under certain circumstances. Conditions such as Encephalitozoon cuniculi(E. cuniculi), temperature related conditions like Heatstroke or Hypothermia, Pasteurella, and various cancers can all impact rabbits in ways that require attentive care and informed decision-making.

Encephalitozoon cuniculi (E. cuniculi) 

Another infectious disease is Encephalitozoon cuniculi, often abbreviated as E. cuniculi or E-c. It is a microscopic spore-forming, unicellular (microsporidium) parasitic organism that must live within a host’s cell to survive. The organism creates spores which invade the cells of the affected organ and eventually form cysts, which then overcrowd and rupture, resulting in spore release. It creates a severe inflammatory response, causing either neurologic, renal, or ophthalmologic signs.

Transmission: Up to 80% of rabbits carry E-c (Unborn kits may receive the parasite from their mother) without ever developing symptoms of the disease. Spores are shed in the infected rabbit’s urine, contaminating the environment. A non-infected rabbit that shares the same living area may eat hay which has been contaminated by the urine of the infected rabbit. The spores can stay capable of causing infection for months in cool, humid environments, and have been known to live for at least a month at room temperature.

Onset: Symptoms may appear suddenly or progress gradually. Triggers such as stress, old age or a previous illness can activate the parasite causing renal disease, central nervous system disease and  ophthalmologic conditions.

Main Symptoms:  Vestibular disease (inflammation in the brain causing loss of balance, vertigo, and a tilted head) is one of the most common signs associated with E-c. 

• Torticollis (head tilt)
• Vertigo
• Seizures.
• Nystagmus (Eyes flicker from side to side)
• Loss of balance, difficulty walking or weakness in the legs
• Lack of appetite
• Uncontrollable rolling (commonly referred to as alligator rolling)
• Tremors or seizures
• Incontinence (due to infected kidneys)

Testing: Unfortunately many of these same symptoms can also be experienced by a rabbit with inner ear infection so the vet will need to perform certain tests to decipher which is the cause. Blood tests that measure antibodies (called titers) can show that a rabbit has been exposed to the parasite, but they do not always reflect how severe the illness actually is. A Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test may be done on a urine sample to check for spores. A Protein electrophoresis test can distinguish if protein in the blood is from an active or previous infection. Advanced imaging may detect lesions on the brain.

Treatment: Once  diagnosis is confirmed, treatment may consist of: a long-term anti-parasitic (a 28 day course of a rabbit wormer such as Fenbendazole, anti-inflammatory and steroidal medications, possible antibiotics, drugs to help reduce dizziness and nausea, eye ointment for the “down”eye in case of head tilt and supportive care, such as assisted feeding, as needed. Often rabbits whose kidneys have been affected or who show signs of stasis will be hospitalized and receive IV fluids.

Outcome: This parasite is also able to hide inside the rabbit’s own cells. Because of this, the body cannot always eliminate it completely. It can continue producing microscopic spores. Even with treatment, these spores can be difficult to fully destroy, which is why infections with E. cuniculi can sometimes become chronic and require long-term management rather than a complete cure. For some rabbits, such as my Winter, this has a fatal outcome.

Many rabbits who recover from E-c that have head tilt can go on to live a long life whether it is with a full tilt or a mild one. I have read that rabbits who have undergone physio healing after stabilization were able to reduce the extremity of the torticollis.

Temperature Related (Heat Stroke/ Hypothermia)

Heat stroke: Rabbits are highly sensitive to heat and have limited ways to regulate their body temperature. They cannot sweat effectively and rely largely on their ears to release excess heat. When temperatures rise beyond what a rabbit can comfortably tolerate (50-70* F), heatstroke can develop quickly and become life-threatening. Rabbits living in hot, humid climates (especially out of doors) without proper ventilation in hutches or vehicles, can succumb to heat stroke. This can be especially fatal for pregnant does. Prevention is key by having a controlled environment, proper ventilation, shade, and access to fresh water. If you suspect heat stroke, dampen your rabbit’s ears with cool water, and take it immediately to your veterinarian or an emergency clinic.

Hypothermia: Just as rabbits can struggle in excessive heat, prolonged exposure to cold temperatures or damp conditions can lead to hypothermia, a dangerous drop in body temperature. This condition can occur if rabbits are exposed to harsh weather, drafts, illness, or shock. I have written a detailed article on hypothermia which you can read here.

Pasteurella (“Snuffles”)

Pasteurella, commonly referred to as “snuffles,” is a dangerous bacterial infection caused by Pasteurella multocida. It often affects the respiratory system, producing symptoms such as sneezing, nasal discharge, and watery eyes. While many rabbits may carry the bacteria without illness, others can develop persistent respiratory infections or related complications. Early veterinary treatment and careful hygiene practices are important in managing and preventing the spread of this condition.

This respiratory infection can be spread between various animal species and can infect other mammals, birds, reptiles and humans. It can be brought on by dirty bedding, poor ventilation, bad air quality, inappropriate diet and stress. Similar to e-cuniculi, rabbits often carry Pasteurella in their system with no effects, but if exposed to another rabbit shedding the virus, it can trigger an onset.

Rabbits with Pasteurella often present with other infections such as Bordetella, Staphylococcus and Pseudomonas. Young rabbits (under 8 weeks) are of high risk developing Snuffles as the bacteria can be spread from their mother. Some breeds are also at higher risk such as Netherland Dwarf, Mini Lops, Lionhead and Flemish Giant.

Symptoms: May include runny eyes, runny nose, matted and crusty front paws, sneezing.

Tests: Your vet may administer these common tests to determine if your rabbit has Pasteurella. PCR (nasal swab), X-rays, CT Scan, MRI, Endoscopy, Rhinoscopy, culture & sensitivity testing and of course bloodwork.

Treatments: Usually include antibiotics and possibly nebulizer treatments. In the case of pus blocking a tear duct, they will need an eye flush and if conjunctivitis is present, they will be given antibiotic eye ointment. Antibiotics in general can disrupt the digestive system so be prepared to give supplemental feedings of critical care. Treatment typically lasts 2 weeks although some rabbits may need 6-8 weeks. If left untreated, rabbits can develop pneumonia which then may lead to a fatal outcome. You will need to keep your rabbit separate from other animals in the home so as not to spread the illness. Deep clean and disinfect all your rabbit’s items as they get better.

Cancer

Like many animals, rabbits can develop various forms of cancer throughout their lives. Tumors are a growth or mass of abnormal cells that create a lump. The main types are adenoma, carcinoma, sarcoma, leukemia, lymphoma, myeloma, and central nervous system cancers. Adenomas usually occur in glandular tissues. Carcinomas are usually found in skin or tissues that line or cover internal organs.

When discussing cancer it is important to understand the meaning of different terms. Benign means non cancerous, slow growing, localized tumors. Malignant tumors are fast growing and invasive. Metastasize  refers to when cancer cells break away from the primary tumour and travel through the blood or lymphatic system forming new secondary tumors in other organs.

Female Reproductive Cancers: Rabbits over 3 years of age are at high risk for developing ovarian and uterine cancer. 70-80 percent of un-spayed females develop uterine cancer. They can also develop mammary gland cancer which causes large, firm swellings on their breasts.

It may begin as a development of benign changes in their uterus that then progresses to malignant cancer. The cancer then spreads to other parts of the body which is fatal. Symptoms can include loss of appetite, GI stasis, bloody urine, weight loss or a swollen belly. 

The vet will take an x-ray or ultrasound along with palpating the uterus.  If there is no indication that the cancer has spread beyond the uterus, an immediate spay may save the rabbit’s life. There is no reason a rabbit should suffer from uterine cancer when it is totally preventable. All females should be spayed by 5-6 months old. 

Testicular Cancers: Although rare, there are four types- seminomas, Sertoli cell tumours, interstitial cell tumours and teratomas. Interstitial are the most common being seen in older males. Symptoms include enlarged testicles. This can metastasize to other organs, especially the lungs.

Thymomas: Thymomas are typically benign, slow-growing tumors of the thymus gland in the chest. They usually affect older rabbits (generally over 5 years old) and do not spread, although they can grow quite large. Thymic Lymphoma is a metastatic tumor which can spread to other organs. 

Because thymomas take up chest space, they can cause breathing difficulties. Other symptoms may include, lethargy, weight loss, bulging eyes, third eyelid protrusion, swelling of the forelimbs and neck and skin problems such as sebaceous adenitis (skin scaling, dandruff, hair loss). 

Diagnosis is confirmed with a physical exam, x-ray, CT scan, MRI, ultrasound and/or biopsy. Surgery is the primary treatment, but it is considered high risk due to the nature of location to the heart and can often be fatal. Radiation is another possible treatment although again risky due to side effects and repeated anesthesia. Older rabbits who may have issue with sedation, can typically go on to live for a couple of months to 2 years. 

According to Ask a Vet “Thymoma Survival Times** (study of 33 rabbits): prednisolone group median 270 days, radiation 213 days, untreated 92 days; suggests meaningful benefit with corticosteroids. Surgical cases: survival ranges from 6–34 months; requires good post‑op care.” 

Sarcomas: Are malignant tumors that can be found in all parts of the body such as limbs, abdomen, chest, muscles, nerves, tendons and bones. They are locally invasive into the surrounding tissues and aggressive, but they can metastasize through the bloodstream to other organs.

Fibrosarcomas are more frequent in rabbits. These tumors are aggressive, with a generally rapid growth rate and are invasive into surrounding tissues. Metastasis can form in the lungs, heart, kidneys and lymph nodes via infected blood. X-ray, ultrasound biopsy can confirm size and metastasis. These tumors need to be surgically removed.

Myxosarcomas are essentially fibrosarcomas that are rich in connective tissue. These tumors can range in size from small or large and are generally low in malignancy although due to their high rate of regrowth, successive tumors have a higher chance of malignancy and aggressiveness. Again this needs to be surgically removed.

Although rare, Osteosarcoma is a type of sarcoma typically found in the bones of the limbs, hips and shoulders. It is aggressive and spreads quickly. Symptoms can include anorexia, pain, respiratory distress, and lameness. Diagnosis is comparable to other cancers. Unless the cancer is contained to a limb that can be amputated, there is no treatment. The prognosis is poor with a fatal outcome.

Warning Signs

Rabbits are masters of hiding pain. In the wild, their survival depends on hiding weakness, masking discomfort, and remaining outwardly calm even when something is wrong. Our domestic companions have inherited this instinct, which means illness can often go unnoticed until it has progressed further than we might expect. Rabbits can decline quickly, so recognizing early warning signs is an important first step in protecting their health.

One of the earliest and most important indicators is appetite. A rabbit that suddenly refuses food, eats significantly less than usual, or stops eating hay may be experiencing digestive discomfort or another underlying illness. Closely connected to appetite are changes in droppings. Healthy rabbits produce consistent, round fecal pellets throughout the day. Droppings that become smaller, misshapen, infrequent, or absent can signal digestive slowdown or distress.

Behavioral changes can also provide valuable clues. A normally curious and active rabbit that becomes unusually quiet, withdrawn, or lethargic may be experiencing pain or illness. Similarly, a rabbit sitting in a hunched posture, grinding their teeth loudly, or showing signs of abdominal discomfort may be trying to cope with internal distress. Subtle shifts in grooming habits, balance, breathing patterns, or the condition of the fur and skin can also indicate that something is not right.

Physical signs such as nasal discharge, watery or swollen eyes, head tilt, difficulty breathing, swelling, or unexplained weight loss should always be evaluated by a veterinarian familiar with rabbit care. In warmer weather, symptoms such as rapid breathing, drooling, or weakness may indicate heat stress. On the other hand, in freezing temperatures, cold, unresponsive rabbits may be experiencing hypothermia.

Emergency Action Checklist

Quick decision-making can be hard during stressful moments, especially when it concerns potentially fatal illnesses or conditions.

• Contact your exotic veterinarian immediately
• Monitor eating, drinking, and droppings so you can convey information to the vet
• Check your rabbit’s environment
•  Provide a calm, quiet space

Rabbits that decline quickly once illness begins, often endure a fatal outcome. If your rabbit has stopped eating, appears weak, is struggling to breathe, or shows sudden neurological symptoms, contact your exotic veterinarian without delay. Having the phone number and location of your rabbit veterinarian and the nearest emergency animal clinic readily available can save valuable time during an urgent situation.

While supportive measures at home may help stabilize a rabbit temporarily (ie: gently cooling your rabbit in the case of heat stroke or gradually warming your rabbit in the case of hypothermia), many serious conditions require prompt veterinary diagnosis and treatment. Keep your rabbit in a comfortable, low-stress environment away from loud noises, other animals, or excessive handling. Stress can worsen many conditions.

Your vet will need information. Be mindful of when your rabbit last ate and produced normal fecal pellets, whether temperature, stress, diet changes, or possible exposure to insects, toxins, or contaminated materials may be contributing to the situation. This information can help guide treatment decisions.

Preventative Measures

At its heart, prevention is a practice of attentiveness. While some illnesses can arise suddenly or through circumstances beyond our control, many health risks in rabbits can be reduced through attentive daily care and a supportive environment. Prevention is not about eliminating every possible danger, but about creating conditions that strengthen your rabbit’s natural resilience and reduce the likelihood of disease. By focusing on thoughtful nutrition, clean living spaces, environmental balance, and close observation, we can play an active role in protecting them.

Diet: A fiber rich diet is one of the most important foundations of prevention. Unlimited access to high-quality hay supports the delicate balance of the digestive system and helps maintain normal gut motility, reducing the risk of gastrointestinal disorders such as GI stasis or mucoid enteritis. Constant access to clean drinking water further support hydration and healthy digestion. Sudden dietary changes or excessive low-fiber foods can disrupt this balance, so gradual transitions and mindful feeding practices are essential.

Living Environment: Maintaining a clean and dry living environment is equally important. Regularly changing bedding, keeping litter areas sanitary, and grooming rabbits when needed helps reduce the conditions that attract flies and contribute to flystrike. Clean housing also limits the buildup of harmful bacteria and parasites that may affect respiratory or digestive health. For rabbits living outdoors or spending time outside, additional attention to enclosure hygiene and insect protection becomes especially important.

Environmental conditions should also support a rabbit’s temperature comfort and safety. Rabbits tolerate cool temperatures far better than excessive heat, making proper ventilation, shade, and access to fresh water critical during warmer months. In colder seasons, protection from dampness, wind, and extreme cold helps prevent hypothermia and stress on the body. Creating a stable environment where temperatures remain moderate helps support the rabbit’s overall wellbeing.

Exposure: Preventing illness also involves reducing exposure to infectious disease whenever possible. Limiting contact with wild rabbits, maintaining good hygiene when handling rabbits or their supplies, and taking precautions when bringing new rabbits into the home can help reduce the spread of contagious illnesses such as viral diseases or bacterial infections. In areas where Rabbit Hemorrhagic Disease Virus is present, discussing vaccination and preventative strategies with a rabbit-savvy veterinarian are an important part of protection.

Home Health Checks: Finally, one of the most powerful forms of prevention is daily observation. Because rabbits instinctively hide signs of illness, small changes in appetite, droppings, posture, grooming habits, or energy level can offer early clues that something is not right. By becoming familiar with what is normal for your rabbit, you can often recognize subtle differences and seek veterinary care before a condition becomes severe.

Key Take Aways…

Final Thoughts….

While the term “Fatal Five” may sound intimidating, knowledge is one of the most powerful tools we can have. By learning the early warning signs—changes in appetite, stool production, posture, energy level, or breathing—you can often detect problems before they become critical or even fatal. Thoughtful daily care, including a high-fiber diet, constant access to fresh water, a low-stress environment, and close observation of your rabbit’s normal habits, plays an important role in prevention. 

Most importantly, never hesitate to consult your exotic veterinarian if something feels wrong. Rabbits are masters at hiding illness, but with attentive care and informed guardianship, many emergencies can be recognized early and treated in time.

Sources

• McClure, Diane DVM, PhD, DACLAM, Animal Resource Center Veterinary Services Disorders and Diseases of Rabbits August 2020 MSD Manual Veterinary Manual
• Zayas, Maria DVM, Snuffles in Rabbits, January 5, 2024 PetMD
• Elliot, Pippa MRCVS, How To Treat Snuffles (Pasteurella) in Rabbits August 27, 2025 WikiHow
• Rich, Gregory DVM; Hess, Laurie DVM; Axelson, Rick DVM Infectious Diseases in Rabbits VCA Animal Hospitals
• van Praag, Esther Ph.D. Myxomatosis in rabbits , Disorders and parasitosis of the nervous system MediRabbit
• Witherell, Melissa DVM Myxomatosis in Rabbits: What it is, Symptoms and Treatment December 29, 2025 PetMD
• Krempels, Dana; Cotter, Mary; and Stanzione, Gil ILEUS IN DOMESTIC RABBITS Miami.edu
• Jones, Lauren VMD Flystrike in Rabbits February 19, 2024 PetMD
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• Hess, Dr. Laurie DVM, Diplomate ABVP Five Common Diseases That Affect Rabbits December 21, 2017 PetMD
• The Unusual Pet Vets Chest Masses in Rabbits April 2018
• Houston, Dr Duncan BVSc Rabbit Thymoma & Lymphoma: Vet Guide for 2025 Ask a Vet
• PetMD Editorial Lung Tumors and Lung Cancer in Rabbits May 14, 2010
• Mayer, Joerg DVM, DABVP (ECM), DECZM, DACZM Parasitic Diseases of Rabbits July 2021/modified September 2024 Merck Manual Veterinary Manual
• Noonan, Brendan DVM, DABVP Encephalitozoon cuniculi in Pet Rabbits MSPCA Angell