Myxomatosis is a severe, contagious viral disease in rabbits, caused by the Myxoma virus (a poxvirus), leading to large, fluid-filled swellings (myxomas) around the eyes, nose, genitals, and limbs, often causing blindness, breathing issues, and usually death, spread by biting insects (fleas, mosquitoes) or direct contact, though some wild rabbit species are resistant. It's a major threat to pet rabbits, with high mortality rates, and while vaccines exist in some places, treatment is often unsuccessful.

Causes & Transmission

Virus: Myxoma virus, a poxvirus.

Vectors: Biting insects like fleas, mosquitoes, mites, and ticks.

Direct Contact: From infected rabbits or contaminated bedding/objects.

Symptoms

Fever, lethargy, loss of appetite.

Swelling (puffy, "sleepy" eyes, lips, ears, genitals).

Skin lumps (nodules).

Conjunctivitis, discharge from eyes/nose.

Breathing difficulties, pneumonia.

Who it Affects

Primarily affects European rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus), including pets.

Wild cottontail rabbits in the Americas are natural hosts and show mild symptoms, but transmit the virus.

Humans and other pets (cats, dogs) do not get myxomatosis.

Prognosis & Prevention

High Mortality: Up to 99% fatality in pet rabbits for severe strains.

No Cure: No successful treatment exists.

Prevention: Vaccination (where available) and preventing insect bites are key.

They were cheering and waving, cheering and waving. twitching and salivating like with Myxomatosis

Must’ve gotten mixed up, strangled, beaten up

i’ve got myxomatosis

Rydero_King_of_Rydero