myxomatosis and RHDV2 vaccinations for rabbits in Singapore

vaccinations for rabbits in SG are a topic that confuses owners because the situation is different from many other countries. in the UK, both myxomatosis and RHDV vaccines are routine. in SG, neither is widely required.

this guide covers what’s available, what’s the cost-benefit, and when vaccination makes sense.

the two diseases

myxomatosis

a virus transmitted by biting insects (mosquitoes, fleas) that causes severe inflammation, eye discharge, and high mortality. originally from South America, has spread to Europe and other regions. relatively rare in SG.

signs: swollen eyelids, ear lesions, lethargy, anorexia. typically fatal within days.

RHDV2 (Rabbit Haemorrhagic Disease Virus type 2)

a highly contagious virus that causes liver failure, internal haemorrhage, and rapid death. transmissible by direct contact, contaminated surfaces, food, fomites. very high mortality.

signs: often no symptoms until shortly before death; sometimes fever, lethargy, blood from nose. very rapid onset.

both diseases are serious. both are rare in SG indoor pet rabbits.

SG availability

vaccines available at exotic SG vets:

myxomatosis-RHDV combined vaccine.

available, requires advance ordering by the clinic. cost: SGD 100-200 per dose. typically given annually.

RHDV2 specific vaccine.

available, requires advance ordering. RHDV2 is a separate strain from classic RHDV. cost: similar range.

both vaccines may need to be ordered in advance because they’re not common stock items. discuss with your vet 4-6 weeks before desired vaccination date.

the cost-benefit assessment

low risk (indoor only, no travel exposure):

• HDB indoor rabbit who never leaves the flat
• no other rabbits in the home
• no travel to mainland Asia or Europe with the rabbit
• minimal mosquito exposure (screened windows, AC)

for these, vaccination is generally NOT routinely recommended. the diseases are rare in SG and the rabbit has minimal exposure pathways. the vaccination risk-benefit isn’t compelling.

moderate risk (some exposure):

• outdoor access during travel or boarding
• multi-rabbit household with new rabbits arriving
• attending rabbit shows or events
• balcony access where mosquitoes have direct access

for these, vaccination becomes more reasonable. discuss specifically with your vet.

high risk (significant exposure):

• outdoor / balcony / garden access regularly
• importing or being around imported rabbits
• rabbit shows or boarding facilities with multi-rabbit groups
• recent rabbit purchase from a less-controlled source

for these, vaccination is strongly recommended.

what AVS says

the Animal and Veterinary Service (AVS) does NOT mandate myxomatosis or RHDV vaccination for pet rabbits in SG. this is unlike some countries where annual vaccination is required by law.

the import requirements: rabbits being imported to SG must meet specific health requirements but these often don’t include vaccination certificates for myxomatosis or RHDV.

if you’re considering boarding your rabbit, some facilities may require proof of certain vaccinations. ask before booking.

the practical vaccination decision

if you decide to vaccinate:

1. confirm availability with your vet (likely requires advance ordering)
2. schedule the appointment when the vet has the vaccine on hand
3. understand the cost (per dose) and annual schedule
4. monitor your rabbit for normal vaccination reactions (mild lethargy for 24-48 hours is normal; significant reaction warrants vet contact)

if you decide not to vaccinate:

• ensure the rabbit’s environment minimises exposure pathways
• maintain general health vigilance
• if you ever travel or move to a higher-risk region, reassess

costs over time

annual vaccination:

• single vaccine dose: SGD 100-200
• including consultation: SGD 200-300

over 10 years of rabbit life: SGD 2000-3000

vs. risk of disease for indoor SG rabbit: very low.

the math typically favors not vaccinating for indoor-only HDB rabbits in SG. for higher-risk lifestyles, the math reverses.

other considerations

multi-pet households. if you have multiple rabbits, the risk of disease spread within the home is higher. vaccination of one means consideration of others.

boarding. some boarding facilities prefer vaccinated rabbits. check policies before deciding.

rabbit shows. if attending shows, vaccination is sometimes required.

imported rabbits. if you have a rabbit imported from a high-risk region, the rabbit may have been vaccinated previously. check records.

the future

vaccination guidance can change. monitoring SG case reports of myxomatosis or RHDV (rare) and AVS guidance is worthwhile. if either disease becomes more prevalent locally, recommendations would shift.

what owners often get wrong

three patterns:

• automatically asking for “the rabbit vaccinations” without specifics. in SG, vaccinations are not routine. understand what you’re asking for and why
• declining vaccinations for a high-risk lifestyle rabbit. boarding, shows, or imported rabbits have different risk profiles
• assuming vaccinations alone protect. environment, hygiene, and minimizing exposure pathways matter alongside any vaccination

related reading

• first vet visit checklist for SG rabbit owners — discussion points with your vet
• annual vet checkup — what to include — preventive care framework
• adopt vs buy — SG rescues vs breeders honestly compared — for rabbit sourcing decisions
• our vet directory — exotic clinics that stock vaccines

community-sourced information here is not veterinary advice. for any health concern see a licensed SG exotic vet.