Rabbit Calicivirus: Cats, Dogs and Pet Rabbits

Rabbit calicivirus, also known as Rabbit Haemorrhagic Disease Virus (RHDV), is a virus that affects rabbits. Some strains may also affect hares. In New Zealand, several strains are present in wild rabbit populations, and these viruses are sometimes discussed in relation to rabbit control and the protection of pet rabbits.

Understandably, some pet owners have questions about whether rabbit or hare-based pet foods and treats could pose a risk to their cats, dogs, or household rabbits.

No. Rabbit calicivirus is species-specific and does not infect cats or dogs.

Cats have their own feline calicivirus, which is a very different virus and is usually associated with upper respiratory disease. Rabbit calicivirus causes Rabbit Haemorrhagic Disease in rabbits. Although the names sound similar, rabbit calicivirus does not jump from rabbits to cats or dogs.

This means rabbit meat, rabbit treats, or other rabbit products do not pose a rabbit calicivirus infection risk to cats or dogs.

Homes with pet rabbits need a little more consideration, because Rabbit Haemorrhagic Disease Virus can affect rabbits.

The chance of a household rabbit being exposed through a commercially prepared rabbit or hare product is considered very low, but we cannot say it is completely impossible. RHDV is a hardy virus and should not be assumed to be destroyed by freezing.

At Raw Essentials, our rabbit and hare products are sourced through established wild game supply processes, with checks in place to exclude animals showing signs of illness. Because RHDV usually progresses quickly in affected rabbits, this further reduces the likelihood of obviously affected animals being collected.

Even so, if you have pet rabbits in the home, it is sensible to take simple precautions.

We recommend:

• Do not allow pet rabbits to have contact with rabbit or hare meat, treats, packaging, crumbs, or food bowls used for cats or dogs.

• Wash your hands after handling rabbit or hare products, especially before handling pet rabbits or their food.

• Keep pet rabbit housing, hay, bedding and feeding areas separate from dog and cat feeding areas.

• If your rabbits are not already vaccinated, we recommend discussing RHDV vaccination and practical ways to keep them protected with your veterinarian.

For very risk-averse households, or where a pet rabbit is unvaccinated or medically vulnerable, avoiding rabbit or hare products may be the simplest option.

• Rabbit calicivirus affects rabbits. Some strains may also affect hares.

• Cats and dogs cannot catch rabbit calicivirus from eating rabbit or hare meat, treats, or other products.

• Pet rabbits are the species to consider. The risk from commercially prepared rabbit or hare products is expected to be very low, but good hygiene and separation are sensible.

• Freezing should not be relied on to inactivate RHDV.

• If you have pet rabbits, we recommend discussing RHDV vaccination and practical ways to protect them with your veterinarian.

For more information about rabbit calicivirus and protecting pet rabbits in New Zealand, visit:

• Ministry for Primary Industries: Protecting pet rabbits from caliciviruses - https://www.mpi.govt.nz/biosec...

• New Zealand Veterinary Association: Rabbit Haemorrhagic Disease information for pet owners - https://nzva.org.nz/public/pet...