Rabbits, including the wild European rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus) and domestic breeds, face continuous threats to survival. Mortality factors range from natural biological and environmental causes to intentional or accidental human intervention, such as pest control measures and household dangers.
Biological Threats and Fatal Diseases
Wild rabbits are naturally subject to high mortality rates, with predation being a constant pressure. Common predators like coyotes, foxes, and various raptors (hawks and owls) actively hunt rabbit populations. These predators generally target the young, weak, or sick individuals.
Beyond predation, highly virulent pathogens threaten both wild and domestic rabbits. The two most devastating diseases are Rabbit Hemorrhagic Disease Virus (RHDV) and Myxomatosis. The newer strain, RHDV Serotype 2 (RHDV2), is highly contagious and affects all species of rabbits, hares, and pikas, often causing sudden death with few prior symptoms.
Myxomatosis, caused by a poxvirus, is primarily transmitted by blood-sucking insects like fleas and mosquitoes. Symptoms include swelling around the eyes, genitals, and face, often leading to secondary bacterial infections like pneumonia. For unvaccinated domestic rabbits, both diseases carry an extremely high fatality rate, sometimes reaching 90% or more.
Risks Associated with Toxic Substances
The use of toxic substances for rabbit control is highly regulated. In many jurisdictions, no poisons are specifically registered or legal for direct use against rabbits. Professional pest management emphasizes that using non-specific poisons, such as rodenticides, poses severe risks to non-target wildlife, pets, and livestock. Common poisons used in large-scale control, such as sodium monofluoroacetate (1080) and Pindone, are restricted substances requiring professional licensing.
Anticoagulant rodenticides, if ingested by a rabbit, cause death by internal hemorrhage, which can take several days and is considered inhumane. Secondary poisoning is a significant concern, where predators or scavengers (like domestic cats or dogs) consume a poisoned rabbit carcass and become ill or die. Common household chemicals or automotive fluids, such as antifreeze, also represent a lethal risk if left accessible outdoors.
Many of the products used in regulated control, like 1080, are highly toxic and can cause lethargy, convulsions, and respiratory distress, with death occurring within a few hours. Pindone, another anticoagulant, works slower, leading to internal bleeding and pain over several days before death. Strict regulations exist because these chemicals persist in the environment and pose a danger to the wider ecological system, including soil and water contamination.
Humane Alternatives and Exclusion Methods
For property owners seeking to prevent rabbit damage, non-lethal exclusion methods are the most effective and responsible approach. Physical barriers, specifically fencing, provide the best long-term solution for protecting gardens and landscaping. Effective rabbit fencing must utilize wire mesh with openings no larger than 1.5 inches and stand at least 30 to 36 inches high to prevent jumping.
Preventing rabbits from digging underneath the fence is crucial. This is achieved by burying the bottom edge at least six inches deep into the soil. Alternatively, the bottom six inches of wire mesh can be bent outward at a 90-degree angle and secured to the ground, creating an effective apron barrier.
Habitat modification can reduce the area’s appeal to rabbits. Removing dense brush piles, tall weeds, and debris eliminates safe harbor and nesting locations. Non-toxic repellents use strong scents or tastes that deter rabbits from feeding on treated plants. Motion-activated sprinkler systems can also provide a temporary deterrent by startling the animals.
Common Household Dangers to Pet Rabbits
Domestic pet rabbits are vulnerable to many common household items and substances harmless to humans. Their innate chewing behavior often leads to the ingestion of dangerous materials. Electrical cords are a significant hazard; when chewed, they can cause severe burns, electrocution, or internal injuries.
Numerous common houseplants and garden plants are highly toxic to rabbits, including lilies, foxglove, ivy, and all bulb-growing plants like tulips and daffodils. Certain human foods, such as avocado, chocolate, and rhubarb, contain compounds that can cause serious gastrointestinal distress or life-threatening heart and lung issues.
Accidental ingestion of cleaning supplies (bleach or ammonia-based products) is a major threat, as are certain products meant for other pets. Flea products containing fipronil, which are safe for dogs and cats, are extremely toxic to rabbits and can lead to severe neurological symptoms and death. Pet owners must ensure all cleaning chemicals and medications are securely stored and that the rabbit’s living space is free of these hazards.