11/12/2025
🚨 Attention Rabbit Owners: Important Calicivirus Vaccination Reminder 🚨
A wild rabbit control program is scheduled across the Greater Sydney Local Government Areas – including the Central Coast – in early March 2025. As part of this program, authorities will release Rabbit Haemorrhagic Disease Virus (RHDV1-K5), a strain of rabbit calicivirus, during the first week of March.
🐰 What is Rabbit Calicivirus?
Rabbit calicivirus (RHDV) is a highly contagious and often fatal virus that affects domestic and wild rabbits. It spreads easily through direct contact with infected rabbits, as well as through insects, contaminated objects, and even on clothing or shoes.
❗ Why It’s Important to Vaccinate
Pet rabbits are just as vulnerable as wild rabbits. The presence of wild virus PLUS the upcoming release of RHDV1-K5 means protection is essential. Vaccination is currently the best defence against the virus.
For the strongest protection, rabbits should be vaccinated before 1 March 2025—ideally by mid-February to ensure immunity is fully developed before the release.
🩺 Common Symptoms of Rabbit Calicivirus (RHDV)
Please contact your veterinarian urgently if your rabbit shows any of the following:
Sudden fever
Lethargy or loss of appetite
Difficulty breathing
Bleeding from the nose or mouth
Sudden collapse or death (the virus can progress very quickly)
💉 What You Should Do Now
✔ Book your rabbit’s vaccination appointment as soon as possible
✔ Ask us about the recommended vaccination schedule
✔ Keep your rabbit indoors and protected from insects where possible
✔ Avoid exposure to grass, hay or vegetation of unknown origin, and keep food away from wild rodents
✔ Practice strict hygiene measures, avoid rabbit play dates, avoid contact with wild rabbits
Protect your fluffy family members—schedule their vaccination before March. Your quick action could save their life. 💚🐇
If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to call Cronulla Vet Clinic on 9527 2604.