The Buzz About Flystrike

As we come into the summer months, so comes one of the most risky seasons for our rabbits. Just as we start to relax out in the sun, flies go on the hunt for somewhere to lay their eggs, and thick warm rabbit fur can be the perfect place.

Flystrike occurs when blue or greenbottle flies land on the skin of our rabbits, normally around their bums where dirt and stool has accumulated. This is the perfect spot for them to lay their eggs, which then hatch into maggots. This can only take a few hours. Multiple in number, the maggots will bury themselves into the skin of the rabbit, causing inflammation. The rabbit may scratch around their back end, or start digging excessively to distract themselves from the pain. Even worse, maggots will eat the flesh of the rabbit as they grow, worsening the pain, causing infection, skin sloughing—and in very severe cases, sepsis and death. The worst cases of flystrike can progress from the fly landing to death within 24 hours.

For this reason, flystrike is considered a veterinary emergency. As our furry friends are prey animals, they tend to be incredibly good at hiding their signs for fear of a hypothetical predator. It is therefore up to all rabbit owners to check their bunnies daily for any signs of this disease. This includes not only checking for any change in activity levels and eating or drinking, but also checking around their anus for any matted, dirty or wet fur which may make it so attractive to flies.

If you’re searching for a trusted rabbit vet in Ledbury, our team is here to help. We’re experienced in small mammal care and understand the specific needs and risks that come with rabbit ownership—especially in warmer months.

So how can we stop this happening? Prevention of flystrike comes in two forms – good rabbit care and insecticidal medication. Older or arthritic rabbits are not as good at cleaning themselves, and so they may need to be cleaned more regularly by their owners or have the fur around their anus trimmed. Rabbits fed on a lower fibre diet will have looser stools, which are more likely to cling to fur and look tempting to flies.
This can be remedied by increasing their fibre intake – more hay and grasses in their diet and fewer pelleted foods and snacks!
There are insecticides you can use on rabbits to deter flies from landing. Insecticidal spray or liquid can be used during the hot months, and some can last up to 10 weeks after application. Regularly cleaning out your rabbit’s pen using a good insecticidal solution will also help keep your pets safe.

As an exotic vet in Ledbury, we’re always happy to offer guidance tailored to your rabbit’s unique needs. Whether it’s preventative care, nutrition advice, or urgent treatment, don’t hesitate to reach out.

If you ever have any doubt about your rabbit at all, or any questions about their flystrike protection, please contact your vet. Flystrike can be incredibly dangerous very quickly, so if you ever see fly eggs on your rabbit or wet matted fur, please let your vets know right away.