31/05/2026
🪰 Flystrike: A Serious Risk During Warmer Weather 🪰
Flystrike is a painful and potentially life-threatening condition that can affect rabbits, guinea pigs and other pets. It occurs when flies lay eggs on an animal, which quickly hatch into maggots that feed on the surrounding tissue.
Sadly, flystrike can develop in just a few hours and, without urgent veterinary treatment, can quickly become fatal.
Pets are particularly at risk if they have a dirty rear end, matted fur, wounds, diarrhoea, mobility issues, or health conditions that make it difficult for them to keep themselves clean. However, even well-cared-for pets can be affected.
To help protect your pets:
🐾 Carry out daily health checks and watch for signs of illness or injury.
🐾 During warm weather, check your pet thoroughly at least twice a day, paying particular attention to their rear end and tail area.
🐾 Keep fur clean and dry. If your pet becomes soiled, gently wash the area with warm water and dry it thoroughly.
🐾 Clean hutches, cages, litter trays and toilet areas every day.
🐾 Change bedding regularly and keep living areas clean and hygienic.
🐾 Feed a suitable diet and help your pet maintain a healthy weight.
🐾 Protect outdoor enclosures from flies wherever possible by using suitable mesh or netting.
🐾 Consider neutering female rabbits, as they can be more susceptible to flystrike.
The highest risk period is usually between April and October, but flystrike can occur whenever conditions are warm enough for flies to be active.
If you notice any signs of flystrike or have concerns about your pet, contact your vet immediately. Early treatment can save lives.
Please help us spread awareness by sharing this post. It could help protect a much-loved pet this summer. 💙
