What is flystrike – and does it only effect rabbits?

Flystrike is an unpleasant condition where flies lay eggs on an animal’s skin. Those eggs hatch into maggots which then feed on the animal’s tissue. If spotted it needs dealing with urgently as it’s life threatening. Although it’s most common in rabbits it can be seen in other small animals. You might also hear it called ‘Myiasis’.

Let’s talk about the signs to look for and what you can do if you suspect your rabbit (or other animal) has flystrike.

What are the causes of flystrike?

Flies are attracted to faeces and urine and with the warmer weather the risk is a lot higher being as there are a lot more flies around.

Flies lay eggs every 3-4 days (around 500 at a time!) looking for these warm damp decaying places. Which means that open wounds are also susceptible.

It’s important to make sure your pets bedding is regularly cleaned and changed, and that your pets arnen’t sleeping in heavily soiled bedding.

Why are rabbits more at risk that other animals?

Rabbits can’t always groom themselves and with their long fur they can end up with soiled bottoms which will end up smelly and sticky in the heat.

It’s also up to owners to make sure their cages are cleaned regularly especially when it’s hot.

Flies are also more naturally drawn to a rabbit’s scent glands.

So can other animals get flystrike?

Absolutely. If the conditions are right for the fly to lay the eggs. Other animals at risk are generally other small animals like guinea pigs, although other animals like dogs and cats can get it, but less likely as they don’t tend to live in the same conditions as smaller animals and spend more time cleaning themselves.

What are the (early) signs of flystrike?

Some of the early signs you might notice in your pets include things like:

Lethargy – Is your rabbit is less perky than usual?

Reduced appetite – Have they gone of their food and is that normal?

Change of posture – do they appear to be hunched over and uncomfortable?

Hiding away  – Are they displaying unusual behaviour and avoiding you?

Some of the later signs are a lot more obvious. You’ll notice a wound appear, with a foul smell and even maggots that are visible. Your rabbit might even go into shock on collapse.

It’s important to contact your vet if you do notice any of the early signs that get worse or don’t go away.

If you do notice any of the later signs take them to your emergency vets immediately.

What is the treatment for flystrike?

Your vet will likely examine the area and sedate your rabbit so they can clip the area, remove any maggots and clean, treat and dress the wound. They’ll also give them antibiotics.

Flystrike is life threatening but recovery has better chances the earlier it’s caught so don’t delay taking them to the vet.

How can you prevent flystrike?

• Firstly, good hygiene is key. Clean out dirty bedding every day – especially over the summer.
• Check your pet’s bottom regularly to make sure it’s clean and dry.
• Groom your long-haired rabbits regularly, not only is this a lovely bonding exercise, you get to given them a good inspection every time.
• There are also fly control preventions you can use like the beaphar fly guard that we stock
• You can also add in additional fly control around your pets like screens

If you have any other questions about your rabbit’s general health or care feel free to pop into the shop. Pet Stop Market Deeping is located just outside of Peterborough not far from Stamford.

FAQs

How quickly can flystrike kill?

It very much depends on how early you can catch it. Flystrike is life threatening and needs treating immediately. Maggots burrowing into the skin can cause fatal tissue damage in just a day of hatching.

Can rabbit recover from flystrike?

Yes absolutely. Many rabbits do. With early treatment your rabbit should recover well on a course of antibiotics. But there is always a high risk of sepsis of shock.

What time of year is flystrike more common?

Flystrike is more common in the summer as this is obviously a time when flies are more present, but also, soiled bedding can fester more in the heat and become more attractive to flies.

What is it about rabbits that make them more attractive to flies?

Rabbits are more likely to have soiled rear ends when their poop gets stuck and sticky. They are also more likely to be sat in wet soiled bedding as they rely on us humans to clean out their living areas. Flies also happen to be attracted to a rabbits scent glands unfortunately!

Can guinea pigs get flystrike?

Although not as common yes, they can! So follow all of the same precautionary measures and steps, especially if you have a long haired guinea pig that could get a very messy bottom.

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