Protecting Your Pet Rabbit from Rabbit Haemorrhagic Disease

RHDV Vaccination NSW: Protecting Your Pet Rabbit from Rabbit Haemorrhagic Disease

Pet rabbit owners across NSW are being urged to act, with the NSW Government set to release Rabbit Haemorrhagic Disease Virus (RHDV) into the environment again. This program is designed to control wild rabbit populations, but it also places pet rabbits at serious risk if they are not properly protected.

At Great Western Animal Hospital in Greystanes, we want to make sure local rabbit owners understand what this means and how to keep their rabbits safe.

What is Rabbit Haemorrhagic Disease (RHDV)?

Rabbit Haemorrhagic Disease, also known as rabbit calicivirus, is a highly contagious and often fatal virus that affects rabbits. It can cause sudden illness and death, sometimes with very few warning signs.

RHDV spreads easily through:

• Direct contact with infected rabbits
• Insects such as flies and mosquitoes
• Contaminated food, bedding, clothing or shoes
• The environment, including grass and soil

Even indoor-only rabbits are at risk, as the virus can be carried inside on hands, clothes or other pets.

Why RHDV Vaccination is So Important Right Now

With the planned environmental release of RHDV in NSW, the risk to unvaccinated pet rabbits increases significantly. Government and animal welfare authorities are recommending that all pet rabbits are vaccinated by mid-February 2026 to ensure they are protected ahead of time.

Vaccination is the most effective way to protect pet rabbits from calicivirus and reduce the risk of severe illness or sudden death.

Can My Rabbit Still Get RHDV if They Stay Indoors?

Yes. This is one of the most common misconceptions we see. Because RHDV can be spread via insects and contaminated items, rabbits do not need to go outside or have contact with other rabbits to be exposed.

This is why RHDV vaccination NSW recommendations apply to all pet rabbits, not just those kept outdoors.

RHDV Vaccination at Great Western Animal Hospital, Greystanes

We are currently offering RHDV vaccinations for pet rabbits at Great Western Animal Hospital. Our team can help ensure your rabbit is protected and answer any questions you may have about rabbit health and ongoing care.

With the upcoming virus release, we strongly encourage rabbit owners not to leave vaccination until the last minute.

Book Your Rabbit’s Vaccination Now

If you own a rabbit, now is the time to act. Protecting your rabbit early helps ensure they are covered before the increased risk period begins.

You can book your rabbit’s RHDV vaccination:

• Online via our website here
• By calling Great Western Animal Hospital on 9631 9322
• Through our clinic app

If you’re unsure about your rabbit’s vaccination status or need advice, our team is always happy to help