Vaccinating rabbits is an essential part of responsible care for these sensitive and special animals. It’s often believed that because they live indoors or don’t have contact with other animals, rabbits are protected from infectious diseases. However, this perception is mistaken: some deadly diseases can affect them even when they’re not outside the home. In this article, we’ll cover in depth everything you need to know about vaccinating rabbits in Spain, when and how to do it, what diseases can be prevented, and the best guidelines for keeping your pet protected.
Why is it so important to vaccinate rabbits?
Rabbits can be affected by two extremely dangerous viral diseases: myxomatosis and viral hemorrhagic disease (VHD), both of which are VHD1 and VHD2. These diseases have no cure, are highly contagious, and can be fatal very quickly.
At Animal Salut, we’ve been caring for rabbits for years, vaccinating and checking their health annually. We have experience treating these special and delicate animals, so we know that prevention is the best way to do it.
Although effective vaccines exist, their effectiveness depends on proper administration at the right time. Therefore, we insist that vaccination in rabbits is not optional, but essential to ensure a long and healthy life.
Diseases that are prevented by vaccination
Myxomatosis
Myxomatosis is a viral disease caused by a poxvirus that primarily affects wild and domestic rabbits. It is transmitted by mosquitoes, fleas, and other vectors, so it can even reach indoor rabbits. Symptoms include eyelid inflammation, skin nodules, eye and nasal discharge, and a rapid deterioration in general condition.
It is a fatal disease in most cases, and annual vaccination is the only effective way to prevent it. In our experience at Animal Salut, many owners are surprised to learn that these diseases are transmitted by seasonal insects, reinforcing the need for strategic vaccination.
Viral hemorrhagic disease (RHD)
This disease is also fatal and has two variants: RHD1 and RHD2. It primarily affects the liver and other internal organs, causing severe internal bleeding. Many rabbits die without showing any obvious symptoms.
Currently, there are combination vaccines that protect against myxomatosis and both RHD variants. These vaccines, such as Myxo-RHD PLUS, are available at specialized centers like ours and are the best option for complete immune protection in domestic rabbits.
When should a rabbit be vaccinated in Barcelona?
The ideal age to begin the vaccination program depends on each case, but generally, it can begin as early as 5-6 weeks of age, especially if the animal is in a risk area or during periods when mosquitoes are more prevalent.
However, at Animal Salut we follow a guideline optimized by our experience and the epidemiological context of our area:
“Vaccination should be given every six months, as this is the duration specified by the vaccine manufacturer. However, since the diseases the vaccine protects against are transmitted by a mosquito, which is seasonal, we recommend annual vaccination in April and May to ensure coverage during the peak mosquito-borne months..”
This approach makes sense in areas like Barcelona and its surroundings, where peak vector activity coincides with spring and summer. This way, we achieve annual vaccination with maximum preventive efficacy.
What vaccinations does a rabbit need in Barcelona?
In Spain, the essential vaccines for a domestic rabbit are:
- Myxomatosis vaccine
- Virgin hemorrhagic disease type 1 (RHD1) vaccine
- Virgin hemorrhagic disease type 2 (RHD2) vaccine
These vaccines can be administered separately or in a combined format, such as the aforementioned Myxo-RHD PLUS, which facilitates compliance with the schedule and minimizes animal stress by reducing the number of injections.
Recommended vaccination schedule
Here is a general guideline that can be adapted according to the area and the animal’s conditions:
| Rabbit age | Recommended vaccine |
|---|---|
| 5–7 weeks | Myxo‑RHD PLUS (or separate myxomatosis vaccines, RHD1 and RHD2) |
| 6–12 months (1 year) | Annual revaccination with Myxo-RHD PLUS (preferably in April-May) |
| Adults with no previous history | Start the vaccination protocol as soon as possible with Myxo-RHD PLUS and follow the annual schedule. |
Furthermore, if a rabbit has been rescued or adopted and there is no record of vaccination, it is recommended to begin the protocol as soon as possible, regardless of the rabbit’s age.
Is vaccination of rabbits mandatory in Spain?
Although there is no national legislation in Spain requiring rabbit vaccination, vaccination is considered an essential responsibility of the owner. In some autonomous communities or specific situations (for example, competitions, adoptions, or sales), it may be mandatory.
From a medical and ethical perspective, vaccination is absolutely recommended. As we at Animal Salut state:
“Vaccination protects against two incurable and potentially fatal diseases. Vaccination is therefore a direct way to prevent painful losses and protect the animal’s health..”
Practical tips for safe and effective vaccination
- Schedule vaccinations for April and May to cover the highest risk season.
- Avoid vaccinating sick or convalescing rabbits. The vaccine should be given to a healthy animal.
- Check your rabbit’s general condition annually, in addition to vaccinating it. During our visits, we take the opportunity to perform a complete general checkup.
- Keep a record of your vaccination history: it’s useful for future visits or emergencies.
Animal Salut: we take care of your rabbits as if they were our own
At Animal Salut, we specialize in preventative medicine for pets, including personalized vaccination programs for rabbits. We are proud to offer:
- Stress-free home visits for your pet.
- Online consultations for pre- and follow-up guidance.
- A veterinary center in Barcelona adapted for small mammals.
With years of experience, we know what each rabbit needs based on its age, health, and environment. If you’d like to learn more or make an appointment, you can do so on our website.
Protect today to care forever
Vaccinating rabbits in Barcelona is a vital preventive measure, not only to comply with veterinary guidelines, but also to save lives. Protecting your rabbit with effective vaccines against myxomatosis and viral hemorrhagic disease is the greatest gesture of love and responsibility.
At Animal Salut, we’re here to help you through the entire process, providing friendly advice and applying all our professional knowledge to ensure your rabbit lives a healthy and happy life.
Need to vaccinate your rabbit? We’re here to help!
At Animal Salut, we specialize in preventative medicine for rabbits and offer stress-free home visits, in addition to care at our veterinary center in Barcelona.
✅ We take care of your companion as if he were our own.
📅 Make your appointment today and protect your health!
Make an appointment online or call us directly. We’ll be waiting for you!
For more general information on health and prevention for exotic animals, you can visit the Spanish Association of Veterinarians Specializing in Exotic Animals.
