Flystrike in Rabbits & Guinea Pigs
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Flystrike is a horrible illness that can cause terrible pain and distress to an animal and can even lead to death. However, there are simple, easy steps you can take to help prevent it.
What is it?
Flystrike happens when adult flies lay their eggs in faeces-soiled fur around a rabbit's or guinea pig’s bottom. Within as little as 8-10 hours the eggs hatch into rapidly-multiplying maggots which feed on the animal by burrowing into its flesh.
This causes extreme pain and distress for the animal and eventually, they will go into shock and die. While flystrike most commonly occurs in rabbits and guinea pigs, debilitated cats and dogs who are unable to groom themselves properly, can be affected too.
Pet hygiene and prevention
It is imperative that you give any pet a daily hygiene check – twice daily during hot and humid weather, when flies are particularly active.
Examine your pet every morning and evening and check that their fur is clean, dry and not matted. If their bottom is not clean, use cotton wool and warm water or fragrance free baby wipes to clean it for them.
In the case of rabbits and guinea pigs, change their bedding daily and ensure the rest of their home is clean and dry. Be particularly vigilant if the pet has ‘loose’ droppings, as they will be more at risk.
To keep the flies away, use a suitable pet-friendly fly repellent available from your vet or pet store, and hang a fly strip close to the hutch. (The safest fly strips to buy are available from equestrian centres – some traditional fly strips or fly killers may be suitable for household use, but can be lethal in close proximity to small pets).
There is also a product called Rearguard that is suitable for rabbits and promises to keep them free from maggot infestation for up to 10 weeks.
Speak to your vet for further help and information on preventative measures. Finally, if you think your pet may be suffering from flystrike or you can see maggots, treat it as an emergency and get your pet to a vet immediately. Prompt treatment can save your pet from unnecessary suffering and even death.
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