THE RSPCA has received a number of calls from members of the public concerned about myxomatosis among the rabbits on Freedom Bridge Roundabout at Wisbech. We would like to reassure readers that our officers have attended on a number of occasions and have

THE RSPCA has received a number of calls from members of the public concerned about myxomatosis among the rabbits on Freedom Bridge Roundabout at Wisbech.

We would like to reassure readers that our officers have attended on a number of occasions and have managed to catch some of the rabbits, although those which are still active are retreating to their burrows.

Many people may not be aware that myxomatosis has no cure or treatment and is endemic in the wild rabbit population.

An animal suffering from myxomatosis may endure a long slow death. If a wild rabbit is suffering from the disease it will usually be put to sleep to prevent it suffering further.

The RSPCA will respond to reports of injured or suffering animals. The national helpline number is 0300 1234 999.

If a member of the public has contained one of the affected rabbits and we are unable to attend immediately they may be asked to take the animal to a

veterinary surgery.

Any relocation of infected rabbits from the roundabout could be illegal. To ensure the movement of rabbits is legal, each rabbit would have to be taken into captivity for a significant length of time to be tested for the disease, causing a large amount of unnecessary distress.

Owners of domestic rabbits should ensure that their pets are vaccinated regularly against myxomatosis.

SOPHIE WILKINSON

Regional press officer

RSPCA East

Peterborough