Domestic rabbits are suddenly dying in Douglas County. Here's why

PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) – Domestic rabbits are dying in Douglas County due to a deadly virus that causes them to suffer respiratory and neurological symptoms, according to the Oregon Department of Agriculture.

ODA first confirmed the presence of Rabbit Hemorrhagic Disease (RHDV) at a rabbitry on April 14 after the owner reported to a local veterinarian that their rabbits had started dying suddenly.

Officials say most of the rabbits at the rabbitry have since died. The remaining rabbits are under quarantine, according to ODA, as the disease is highly contagious and can spread through contact with the infected rabbits, their meat, fur, or the materials that come into contact with them.

The disease does not pose a threat to humans, but is deadly to rabbits.

“The affected rabbits were housed outdoors where they may have potentially been exposed to wild rabbits,” ODA said. “The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife has not diagnosed RHDV in wild rabbits in Western Oregon, but the virus is known to be present in wild populations in Central and Eastern Oregon.”

Signs of RHDV include respiratory or neurological symptoms as well as bloody nasal discharge. Once a rabbit is exposed, the virus can cause sudden death.

To prevent the spread of RHDV, infected rabbits should be quarantined for 30 days. Veterinary officials also recommend washing hands, clothes, and cages that come into contact with an infected rabbit’s cage. 

“Keep pet rabbits inside to avoid exposure to environments potentially contaminated by wild or feral rabbits or by people, vehicles, or implements that can spread the disease,” ODA said.

All Oregon rabbit deaths and illnesses should be reported to ODA and ODFW.