Just like other mammals, rabbits can contract ringworm, a fungal infection. In this article, we will discuss the causes, symptoms, and treatment of ringworm in rabbits. Stay with us to learn more.
Rabbits are popular pets, and many people enjoy keeping them. However, if you decide to have a rabbit as a pet, it's important to be aware of potential health issues, including ringworm.
Ringworm is a fungal infection that is common in rabbits. Infected rabbits develop raised, red, circular lesions covered with white, flaky material. These lesions typically appear first on the head before spreading to other parts of the body.
Ringworm is generally linked to poor hygiene, improper diet, and environmental stress factors. The infection is most commonly caused by the Trichophyton mentagrophytes fungus, though Microsporum canis can also be responsible.
The fungus spreads through direct contact. Contaminated objects, such as grooming brushes that are not properly disinfected, can also contribute to transmission. Some rabbits can carry the fungus without showing symptoms, making them silent spreaders.
If you suspect your rabbit has ringworm, a veterinarian can perform diagnostic tests to confirm the infection.
Yes! Infected rabbits can spread ringworm to humans and other animals. Infected rabbits should be isolated and treated. Owners should take precautions, such as:
Wearing disposable gloves when handling an infected rabbit.
Avoiding close contact with the rabbit.
Thoroughly washing hands and arms after handling the rabbit, cleaning its cage, or disposing of waste.
Some rabbits may not show symptoms, but common signs include:
Hair loss
Scaly patches on the fur
Lesions, typically around the eyes, ears, and nose
Minimal itching
The lesions can spread across the body and may resemble mite infestations.
The most common method is a fungal culture test, where a vet collects fur and skin flakes from the lesion and places them in a special medium to grow the fungus. This process takes about four weeks.
A PCR fungal test is also available, but it is currently only validated for dogs, cats, and horses. It can deliver results in just a few days, but since it only detects three types of ringworm fungi while rabbits can be infected by at least 12 species, it is often used alongside a fungal culture.
Wood’s lamp testing (a blacklight test) is not very effective for diagnosing ringworm in rabbits, as most ringworm species do not glow under UV light.
In some mild cases, if a rabbit has low stress levels and a proper diet, the infection may resolve on its own. However, treatment is usually recommended, as ringworm can easily spread to humans and other pets.
Topical Treatments
Medicated shampoos (used twice a week)
Antifungal sprays (applied twice a week)
Dips and baths (though they can be stressful and must be followed by proper drying to prevent hypothermia)
Note: If ringworm lesions are near the mouth or eyes, topical treatments may not be ideal.
Oral Antifungal Medication
Often used for at least four weeks
Various antifungal medications are available, and your vet will recommend the most suitable option
To prevent reinfection and stop the spread:
Wear gloves and remove any organic material like fur and flakes from your rabbit’s habitat.
Vacuum your home thoroughly and dispose of the vacuum bag or empty the canister immediately.
Wash all fabric bedding and items your rabbit has come into contact with.
Use lint rollers or tape to remove fur from surfaces that can’t be washed.
Disinfect the enclosure and floor using a diluted bleach solution (1:10 or 1:32 ratio of bleach to water) and let it sit for 10 minutes before wiping it off.
Skin conditions in rabbits often lead to hair loss (alopecia). Many of these issues are caused by parasites like mites, which require veterinary attention.
Regular grooming and health checks allow you to spot potential problems early and ensure your rabbit stays healthy and happy!
