The province is warning rabbit owners to take precautions after several wild rabbits were found dead in Cedar showing symptoms of a highly contagious disease which only affects rabbits. (Jordan Davidson/NanaimoNewsNOW)

By NanaimoNewsNOW staff

rabbit aware

Highly contagious rabbit disease possibly on the mid-Island after several found dead

Nov 1, 2025 | 5:27 AM

NANAIMO — Rabbit owners on the mid-Island are being urged to take extra precautions after several wild rabbits were found dead south of Nanaimo displaying worrying symptoms.

While rabbit hemorrhagic disease has not yet been confirmed as the official cause of death, the ministry of water, land, and resource stewardship recently found several deceased wild rabbits in Cedar.

Testing on the rabbits is underway, with the results pending.

Symptoms of the highly contagious disease include fever, lethargy, respiratory distress, bleeding from the nose or mouth, or sudden death.

It’s spread through direct contact between rabbits or contaminated food, bedding, clothing, footwear, or even vehicle tires. It can also be carried short distances on an animal’s fur, their feet, or in their droppings.

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The disease poses no risk to humans or other animals.

While there is no treatment for the disease, a vaccine for domestic rabbits is available in B.C., and owners are advised to speak to their veterinarian for more information or if their rabbit is experiencing any symptoms.

Other tips to protect your pets include practicing good hygiene when handling rabbits or their housing, and keeping your rabbit away from areas where the disease might be present.

In recent years, the disease has been found in feral, commercial, and pet rabbits in Nanaimo, Parksville, the Comox Valley, and places on the lower Mainland.

More information can be found here.

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