Rabbit Hemorrhagic Disease Virus (RHDV) is a highly contagious and deadly rabbit virus that has recently began to spread in various parts of the world and most recently in Southern California. Luckily, there are no current cases in central or northern California at this time but it may be here soon enough. Given that this virus easily spreads through the air and can be carried long distances by insects, animals, as well as on shoes, clothes, and other objects, it is important that we take the necessary precautions to keep our rabbits safe by keeping them inside, removing your shoes before entering your home, and avoiding contact with other rabbits and wildlife. We also recommend that people do not adopt or buy new rabbits during this time (if you already have one in the home), until the virus is contained or eradicated.
Common symptoms of RHDV include difficulty breathing, bleeding, loss of appetite, lethargy, fever, jaundice, seizures, and sudden death. If your rabbit experiences any of the above symptoms or they may have been exposed to RHDV, please call your veterinarian right away.
For more information on RHDV: https://rabbit.org/deadly-rabbit-virus-threatens-pet-rabbits-across-country/