Vaccinating your rabbit is an important way to keep him/her healthy. In Australia, the only rabbit vaccines available is for the Calici virus, which causes rabbit viral haemorrhagic disease. There are currently two vaccines available in Australia.
What’s the difference between Cylap and Filavac?
Filavac K C + V is an inactivated vaccine for rabbits against RHDV (Rabbit Haemorrhagic Disease Virus) types 1 and 2. The type 2 strain is derived from the European rather than Australian strain and while specific cover against the current dominant Australian strain is unknown, it is expected to be good.
Cylap RCD is an inactivated vaccine for rabbits against RHDV (Rabbit Haemorrhagic Disease Virus) type 1.
How often and when does my bunny get the vaccine?
Filavac
Filavac is a single vaccination from 10 weeks of age that provides immunity 7 days later and lasts 12 months, an annual booster should be given every 12 months for life.
It is recommended that your bunny still has a general check-up every 6 months.
Cylap
Cylap is a single vaccination is given at 8 weeks of age with a booster 4 weeks later, Cylap is then given every 6 months for life.
Cylap is not fully protective against RHDV2. However, there is evidence of some cross-protection between type 1 and type 2 viruses with regular vaccinating every 6 months.
Frequently asked questions
How long before I can give my bunny Filavac after Cylap? There should be 6 months between Cylap and Filavac.
Filavac isn’t available! What do I do? Give Cylap every 6 months, if the rabbit is receiving its first Cylap vaccine after having a Filavac, no booster is required
What side effects are there?
Filavac
- fever
- lethargy
- a subcutaneous nodule at the vaccination site
Cylap
- Hair loss
- Lump
- Scab
- Lethargy
- Reduced appetite
- Limping
We only have Filavac vaccines available and our veterinarians will assist you with any questions or concerns.
We will endeavor to always have an option available for our clients.