Fly strike, or myiasis, is a horrific but preventable condition in which blowflies or green bottle flies lay eggs on soiled or damp fur, usually around a rabbit’s hindquarters. Within hours, the eggs hatch into larvae (maggots) that burrow into the skin and underlying tissue, releasing toxins as they feed. The resulting tissue destruction and toxin absorption can cause shock and death within 24 hours.

Risk factors

Any rabbit can be affected, but those most at risk include overweight rabbits that cannot groom their hindquarters, rabbits with dental disease that limits cecotrophy (eating soft droppings), those with urinary incontinence or chronic diarrhea, and elderly or arthritic animals. Warm, humid weather from late spring through early autumn is peak season. Outdoor rabbits face higher exposure but indoor rabbits near open windows are not immune.

Symptoms

Restlessness, lethargy, loss of appetite, and a strong unpleasant odor are early warning signs. On closer inspection, you may see eggs (small white clusters) or active maggots in the fur around the tail, perineum, or any wound. Affected skin becomes red, swollen, and may have visible holes where larvae have burrowed. In advanced cases, rabbits become severely depressed, hypothermic, and go into shock.

Emergency response

This is a veterinary emergency. Pick off as many visible maggots as possible with tweezers, but do not delay transport to a vet for a thorough job. Keep the rabbit warm and as calm as possible. Do not immerse the rabbit in water, as this can cause additional stress and hypothermia. The veterinarian will clip the fur, remove all larvae, debride dead tissue, and provide pain relief, IV fluids, antibiotics, and anti-parasitic treatment.

Prognosis

Caught very early, before significant tissue invasion, the prognosis can be fair. Once maggots have burrowed deep or the rabbit is in shock, the prognosis is poor. Euthanasia may be the most humane option in severe cases where tissue damage is extensive and systemic toxins have accumulated.

Prevention

Check your rabbit’s hindquarters at least twice daily in warm months. Keep living areas clean and dry. Address obesity and dental issues that prevent self-grooming. Use fly screens on outdoor hutches and consider veterinary-approved fly prevention products. Treat any wounds or soiled fur immediately. Bring outdoor rabbits inside during peak fly activity.

Veterinary disclaimer: This article is for general education only and does not replace an examination by a licensed veterinarian. If you suspect fly strike, seek emergency veterinary care immediately.