If you have a pet rabbit in the UK and they are not vaccinated, they are at serious risk.
Two diseases — Myxomatosis and Rabbit Haemorrhagic Disease (RHD) — kill thousands of pet rabbits in the UK every year. Both are preventable with vaccination. Both are almost always fatal without it.
This guide covers everything UK rabbit owners need to know about rabbit vaccinations.
What Vaccinations Do Rabbits Need in the UK?
UK rabbits need protection against three diseases, covered by two separate vaccines:
Vaccine 1 — Nobivac Myxo-RHD Plus This single injection protects against:
- Myxomatosis
- RHD1 (classic rabbit haemorrhagic disease)
Given annually. Available from most UK vet practices.
Vaccine 2 — Filavac VHD K C+V (or similar RHD2 vaccine) This separate injection protects against:
- RHD2 (a newer, more aggressive strain of rabbit haemorrhagic disease)
Also given annually. Must be given at least 2 weeks apart from the Nobivac vaccine.
Both vaccines are essential. Many rabbit owners are unaware that RHD2 requires a completely separate vaccine — it is NOT covered by the Nobivac Myxo-RHD Plus jab.
What is Myxomatosis?
Myxomatosis is a viral disease spread by biting insects — fleas, mosquitoes, and mites. It was deliberately introduced to the UK in the 1950s to control the wild rabbit population and remains widespread.
Symptoms include:
- Swollen, puffy eyes, nose, and genitals
- Lethargy and loss of appetite
- Difficulty breathing
- Skin lesions and lumpy swellings
Myxomatosis is fatal in almost all unvaccinated rabbits, typically within 10–14 days. Even vaccinated rabbits can contract a mild form, but recover fully.
Critically — indoor rabbits are not safe. Biting insects can enter your home, and even brief outdoor access (a garden or balcony) exposes rabbits to risk.
What is RHD?
Rabbit Haemorrhagic Disease (RHD) is a highly contagious viral disease that causes internal bleeding. It spreads rapidly and is almost always fatal.
There are two strains:
RHD1 — the original strain, been in the UK since the 1980s. Covered by the Nobivac Myxo-RHD Plus vaccine.
RHD2 — a newer, more virulent strain that arrived in the UK around 2013 and has been spreading rapidly since. Requires a separate vaccine. RHD2 is particularly dangerous because:
- It can affect vaccinated rabbits (if only vaccinated against RHD1)
- It can survive in the environment for months
- It can spread via contaminated hay, vegetables, clothes, shoes, and equipment — not just direct contact with infected rabbits
- Indoor rabbits are at genuine risk
Symptoms of RHD include sudden death with no prior symptoms, or brief signs of lethargy, loss of appetite, and breathing difficulties. Death typically occurs within 12–36 hours of symptoms appearing.
How Often Do Rabbits Need Vaccinating?
Both vaccines are given annually. The schedule looks like this:
First vaccination (kittens from 5 weeks old):
- Week 1: Nobivac Myxo-RHD Plus
- Week 3 (at least 2 weeks later): RHD2 vaccine
Annual boosters:
- Nobivac Myxo-RHD Plus: every 12 months
- RHD2 vaccine: every 12 months (given separately, at least 2 weeks apart)
Some vets space the boosters out over the year — for example giving one in spring and one in autumn. Others give both in the same appointment window. Either approach is fine as long as the 2-week gap is maintained.
Use our free vaccine schedule tool to track your rabbit's vaccination dates and set reminders — pets.sovico.co.uk/pets/tools/vaccine-schedule
How Much Do Rabbit Vaccinations Cost in the UK?
Rabbit vaccination costs vary by region and vet practice. Typical UK prices in 2026:
- Nobivac Myxo-RHD Plus: £40–70 per injection
- RHD2 vaccine: £40–70 per injection
- Consultation fee: £30–60 (sometimes waived for boosters)
Total annual vaccination cost: approximately £100–200 per rabbit, depending on your vet.
Some pet insurance policies cover vaccination costs — check your policy details.
Are Indoor Rabbits Safe Without Vaccination?
No. This is a very common misconception.
RHD2 can be brought into your home on your clothes, shoes, or hands after contact with wild rabbits or contaminated areas. It can survive in the environment for months and is resistant to many disinfectants.
Fresh vegetables bought from a supermarket or market could theoretically carry RHD2 if they have come into contact with infected wild rabbits during harvesting or transport.
Myxomatosis is spread by biting insects that can easily enter any home. A single mosquito can transmit the disease.
Even if your rabbit never goes outside, they need both vaccines.
Can Rabbits Be Vaccinated if They Are Unwell?
No. Rabbits should only be vaccinated when they are fit and healthy. If your rabbit is unwell, underweight, or recovering from illness or surgery, speak to your vet about delaying vaccination until they have fully recovered.
Stress can also affect vaccine efficacy — avoid vaccinating immediately after a house move, introduction of a new pet, or other significant stressor if possible.
What Else Should I Know About Rabbit Health?
Vaccination is essential, but there are other key aspects of rabbit health UK owners should be aware of:
Neutering — unneutered female rabbits have an 80% chance of developing uterine cancer by age 5. Neutering dramatically increases lifespan and eliminates this risk. Male rabbits should also be neutered to prevent territorial behaviour and unwanted litters.
Dental care — rabbit teeth grow continuously throughout their life. A diet of at least 80% hay keeps teeth worn down naturally. Dental problems are one of the most common reasons for vet visits in rabbits.
GI stasis — a slowdown or stoppage of the digestive system. Potentially fatal within hours. Prevented by a high-fibre diet (lots of hay), adequate exercise, and monitoring for signs of reduced appetite or droppings.
Fleas and mites — rabbits can get fleas from cats and dogs in the household. Use a rabbit-safe product — never use dog or cat flea treatments on rabbits, as many are toxic.
Set reminders for your rabbit's vaccinations, flea treatments, and health checks with a free Sovico Pets account
Always consult your vet for advice specific to your rabbit's health and vaccination schedule.