Target species
Rabbit
Indications for use, specifying the target species
For the prevention of blowfly strike (Lucilia sericata) in domestic rabbits for up to 10 weeks after dosing
Contraindications
Not to be used on rabbits less than 10 weeks of age. Do not apply to broken skin.
Special warnings for each target species
If the rabbit is continually attractive to flies, this may be due to an underlying disease e.g. diarrhoea or incontinence, or a lack of hygiene within it’s housing. In such cases further advice should be sought from your veterinary surgeon.
Special precautions for use
Special precautions for use in animals
Care should be taken in the treatment of old, sick or debilitated rabbits.
Special precautions to be taken by the person administering the veterinary medicinal product to animals
Wash hands and exposed skin after use.
Wash splashes from skin and eyes immediately.
Do not smoke whilst using the product.
Adverse reactions (frequency and seriousness)
Treated rabbits may show a transient reduction in appetite in the 24-48 hours following treatment.
Use during pregnancy, lactation or lay
Not to be used in pregnant or breeding females.
Interaction with other medicinal products and other forms of interaction
None known
Amounts to be administered and administration route
Rearguard comes supplied ready-to-use in a bottle with built-in applicator sponge. Gently depress the sponge to break the valve before applying.
Apply the product using the sponge applicator, ensuring that the rabbit’s fur is thoroughly wetted with the solution from the middle of the back to the tip of the tail. Special attention should be paid to the areas under the tail and between the back legs. Do not allow the product to run off the animal.
Rabbits should be first treated in early summer before any flies are seen. Rearguard will not kill adult maggots but works by preventing any eggs laid by flies developing.
Rabbits should be treated at 8-10 week intervals under conditions of repeated blowfly challenge. Bathing or washing the rabbit after application may result in a reduction of efficacy.
In cases of existing flystrike, adult maggots should be removed by mechanical means and appropriate supportive treatment given. Rearguard should then be applied to the fur to prevent development of new larvae and re-strike.
Overdose (symptoms, emergency procedures, antidotes), if necessary
Not applicable.
Withdrawal period(s)
Not to be used on rabbits intended for human consumption.