Flystrike in Rabbits: Prevention and Treatment Guide

When I first heard the word flystrike, it didn’t even register as a real threat. It sounded like something out of a bad sci-fi movie or an old wives’ tale—something you might read about in a dusty rabbit care book and shrug off as rare and outdated. But all it took was one close call with my rabbit, Luna, to make me realize how terrifyingly real and dangerously fast this condition can be.

Flystrike in rabbits isn’t just serious—it can be fatal within hours if left untreated. It’s a condition that all rabbit owners, new and experienced alike, need to know about. The good news is that with the right knowledge and a bit of daily diligence, flystrike is largely preventable. In this guide, I’ll share everything I learned—both the hard way and through careful research—so you can protect your bunny from this deadly but avoidable affliction.

What Is Flystrike?

Flystrike, or myiasis, occurs when flies—most commonly green bottle flies—lay eggs on a rabbit’s skin. These eggs quickly hatch into maggots that burrow into the rabbit’s flesh, feeding on their living tissue. The condition is as horrifying as it sounds and progresses at a terrifying pace. It usually affects the rear end, especially if a rabbit has soiled fur, wounds, or any moist area that attracts flies.

One summer afternoon, I noticed Luna sitting oddly in her litter tray. She was normally so meticulous and perky, but that day she seemed uncomfortable and distant. A quick inspection revealed a damp patch under her tail and, to my horror, tiny white specks that I later learned were fly eggs. We rushed to the emergency vet—and thankfully, we caught it in time. But the experience shook me.

Why Are Rabbits So Susceptible?

Rabbits are particularly vulnerable to flystrike for a few reasons:

• Cleanliness: Although rabbits are naturally clean animals, any hindrance to their ability to groom—such as obesity, arthritis, dental problems, or age—can make it difficult for them to keep their fur and skin dry and tidy.

• Cecotropes: Rabbits produce soft, nutrient-rich droppings called cecotropes, which they usually eat directly from their anus. If a rabbit can’t reach them, these droppings can stick to their fur and attract flies.

• Warm, humid weather: Fly populations increase during warmer months, and rabbits with damp fur become a prime target.

• Living conditions: Outdoor rabbits are at higher risk, especially if their enclosures aren't kept clean. That said, indoor rabbits aren't entirely safe either—flies can find their way inside.

Signs and Symptoms of Flystrike in Rabbits

Knowing what to look for is vital because time is of the essence. The symptoms can be subtle at first but escalate rapidly. Here’s what I learned to watch for:

• Unusual behavior: A rabbit that is suddenly lethargic, quiet, or sitting in a hunched position may be trying to hide pain.

• Loss of appetite: Refusing food or treats is always a red flag.

• Strong, foul odor: Flystrike often produces a distinct and awful smell.

• Visible maggots or fly eggs: This is the most obvious and alarming sign. Eggs appear as tiny, rice-like white specks, often around the rear.

• Wet or dirty fur: Dampness, especially around the bottom, can be a warning sign even before eggs are visible.

• Agitation or biting: A rabbit in pain may start biting at its hindquarters or appear restless.

If you suspect flystrike, do not wait—this is a medical emergency.

Emergency Treatment: What to Do If You Suspect Flystrike

I’ll never forget how fast everything happened when we discovered the eggs on Luna. Within twenty minutes, she was at the vet. The staff whisked her away the moment I mentioned “fly eggs,” and she was treated immediately.

If you think your rabbit may have flystrike:

1. Do not delay. Call your vet right away. This is not something that can be managed at home unless explicitly instructed by a professional.

2. Keep your rabbit warm and calm. Stress can worsen their condition. Place them in a quiet, comfortable carrier.

3. Avoid bathing. You might be tempted to rinse off the maggots, but this can cause shock and make things worse. Let the vet handle it.

4. Inspect your rabbit regularly. If you see maggots, note the location, but don’t try to remove them unless advised to do so by a vet.

Treatment at the vet usually involves clipping away fur, flushing out maggots, administering pain relief, and sometimes sedation or surgery for deep infestations. Rabbits may also need antibiotics, fluids, and follow-up care depending on the severity.

How to Prevent Flystrike in Rabbits

After our ordeal with Luna, prevention became my top priority. I couldn’t believe how easily it could have been avoided if I’d just paid closer attention. Here are the most effective strategies I adopted:

1. Daily Health Checks

Even just five minutes a day can save your rabbit’s life. I made it a habit to gently lift Luna and check her rear for signs of dampness, stuck feces, or any unusual odor. If your rabbit doesn’t tolerate being picked up, you can often do this during grooming or when they’re lying comfortably.

2. Maintain a Clean Environment

Flystrike in rabbits is often linked to dirty living conditions. I made sure to clean Luna’s litter box every day during the summer and thoroughly disinfect her enclosure weekly. Outdoor hutches should be fly-proofed with mesh screens and cleaned even more frequently.

3. Use Fly Deterrents

There are rabbit-safe fly repellents and preventative sprays available (often recommended by vets). Additionally, fly strips outside the hutch and fine mesh coverings over openings can drastically reduce fly access.

4. Monitor Weight and Mobility

Overweight or elderly rabbits are at higher risk because they can’t groom themselves properly. After Luna’s scare, we worked closely with her vet to manage her diet and activity level. Regular exercise and a balanced diet high in hay can prevent obesity.

5. Keep Fur Dry and Tangle-Free

Long-haired rabbits like Angoras or Lionheads require regular grooming to prevent matting, which can trap moisture and feces. After her incident, I kept Luna’s rear fur clipped short during the warmer months.

6. Spay or Neuter Your Rabbit

Unspayed females, in particular, may be more prone to developing uterine issues that can cause discharge and increase their flystrike risk. Spaying or neutering your rabbit has many benefits, and reduced flystrike risk is one of them.

Post-Recovery Care and Emotional Support

If your rabbit survives flystrike, they’ll need both physical healing and emotional support. Recovery can be slow, and you might notice a change in behavior—withdrawal, nervousness, or even aggression.

After Luna’s treatment, she was quieter and more clingy. I gave her a soft, secluded spot to rest and offered her favorite herbs (parsley and dill) by hand until her appetite returned. I also stayed close without overwhelming her, talking gently and making sure she didn’t feel alone.

In some cases, rabbits may need to wear protective garments or live temporarily indoors while their wounds heal. Follow-up vet visits are essential, as infections can linger or wounds may need to be re-checked.

Final Thoughts: A Lesson Learned the Hard Way

Flystrike in rabbits is terrifying—not just because of how severe it is, but because of how quietly it can happen. One moment, your rabbit seems fine, and the next, they’re in critical condition. The experience with Luna was one of the scariest moments of my life as a pet owner, but it changed everything.

Now, I know that flystrike is a preventable condition. A little awareness and a few extra minutes each day can make all the difference.

If there’s one takeaway from this entire guide, it’s this: don’t wait until it’s too late. Learn the signs, stay vigilant, and never underestimate how quickly things can go wrong. Rabbits are sweet, silent creatures that rely on us to be their advocates, protectors, and voice when they can’t speak.

Flystrike may be silent, but now you know how to listen—and that could save a life.