Controlling Rabbit Fly Maggots: Effective Prevention &

Section 1: Causes of Fly Larva Disease in Rabbits

The causative agent of fly larva disease in rabbits is a type of dipterous insect resembling bees. When male and female flies land on a rabbit and lay their eggs in areas such as the rabbit's mouth, nose, anus, reproductive openings, wounds, or dense fur regions, the eggs hatch within 1 to 2 days. The larvae then burrow into the rabbit's subcutaneous tissue. These larvae can communicate with the outside world through insect channels and remain internally parasitic, feeding on the rabbit's necrotic tissue or blood. As they mature over several weeks, the larvae undergo two molts, transforming into thirdinstar larvae. These thirdinstar larvae exit the rabbit's body through the insect channels, burrow into the shallow soil, pupate, and eventually emerge as flies.

Section 2: Symptoms of Fly Larva Disease in Rabbits

Fly larva disease is more prevalent during the summer and autumn months and can affect rabbits of any age, though it poses greater risks to young rabbits. Initially, rabbits infected with the disease often show no apparent symptoms. However, once the larvae hatch and migrate deeper into the rabbit's subcutaneous tissue, the affected rabbits may exhibit signs of distress or scream. Inflammation and exudate may appear at the site of larval invasion. As the larvae grow, the rabbit's affected areas may experience functional impairments of the corresponding organs. Postmortem examination of affected rabbits may reveal the formation of fistulas and swelling in the invaded subcutaneous tissue. Secondary bacterial infections can lead to abscesses, which, upon rupture, release a foulsmelling, reddishbrown pus. Sometimes, upon palpation, the presence of fly larvae can be observed.

Section 3: Prevention and Treatment Methods for Fly Larva Disease in Rabbits

1. Medication with Ivermectin: Administer Ivermectin subcutaneously to the affected rabbits at a dosage of 0.02 mg/kg body weight. If the rabbit exhibits symptoms like fever and reduced appetite, it should be treated with intramuscular injections of 200,000 units of penicillin and 20,000 units of streptomycin, twice daily.

2. Removing the fly larvae: If fly larvae are found on the rabbit, the affected area should be surgically incised using a scalpel, and the larvae removed with forceps. Alternatively, 1 to 2 drops of ether or chloroform can be applied to the affected area to kill the larvae. If there are signs of abscesses, hydrogen peroxide can be used to clean the affected area, remove necrotic tissue, and apply an antiinflammatory agent.

3. Eradicating flies in the rabbit shed: During the summer and autumn months, when fly activity is high, it is necessary for owners to regularly spray insecticides such as dipterex, pyrethrin, and fenthion around the rabbit shed to prevent fly infestations.

This concludes the introduction to fly larva disease in rabbits by Oxygen Pet Doctor. We hope that rabbit owners can understand the dangers of this disease and take preventive measures for their rabbits on a daily basis.