Transmission of pasteurellosis from an infected rabbit is through direct contact with nasal secretions, including transmission through the air when the infected rabbit sneezes. The spread can also occur through licking open wounds; sharing water and food bowls, litter boxes, and toys; and carrying the bacteria on caregiver’s skin or clothing. The disease can be shared during mating (genital infections), and a mother rabbit can pass infection to her kits.
Each rabbit is unique, and it’s impossible to predict how a bunny will react to the presence of P. multocida. To paraphrase Dr. Meredith: some rabbits will resist infection, others will succumb; some rabbits will expel the bacterium, others will become carriers; some rabbits will develop a less serious chronic condition, others will suffer from acute disease.
When there is more than one group of rabbits in a home, keeping the groups separate may be recommended, especially if one group is predisposed to pasteurellosis. It’s been shown that a separation of as little as four feet can slow transmission. If possible, separating the groups into different areas of the house will be helpful. Remember that we, as caregivers, can spread the bacteria from one group to another.
