Flystrike, also called myiasis, occurs when flies lay eggs in the fur of rabbits, usually around their bottom; these eggs eventually hatch and mature into maggots causing an illness that is potentially fatal to affected rabbits. The maggots eat into the flesh of the rabbit. With some species of flies, the development from egg to maggots can happen very quickly within a period of 24 hours. There is a high incidence of flystrike during the warmer months of the year when flies are most active.

There are several important factors that can increase a rabbit’s risk of flystrike—

• Obesity lessens a rabbit’s flexibility; the animal will have difficulty reaching its behind and cleaning it properly
• An incorrect diet or obesity can lead to a sticky or dirty bottom
• Living in unhygienic conditions can attract flies
• Runny eyes
• Malocclusion (dental disease)
• Diarrhea
• Long hair that is not groomed regularly

Protect your pet rabbit from flystrike by checking him twice daily, particularly if your pet suffers from any of the predisposing factors already mentioned. Always keep your pet’s living quarters clean, making sure that the litter trays are emptied and cleaned out daily. You can also hang fly strips around your pet’s cage or hutch.

Take your rabbit to your Myakka, FL vet clinic immediately if you see any signs of flystrike. You can also use tweezers to pick off any maggots. Click here to learn more.