DENVER (KDVR) – Some rabbits in Colorado are sporting unusual wart- and tentacle-like growths, but officials say it's not something to worry about.
It's not entirely rare, either, according to Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW).
The black, twisted growths seen on Colorado rabbits come from the papillomavirus, and are spread by bites from insects (mostly ticks, according to researchers) that are more active in warmer months. The bites spread the viral disease and cause malignant tumors to grow in rabbits, often on their heads.
CPW says there's no threat of transmission to pets other than domesticated rabbits, but is still warning residents to be careful.
"There's no overt concern needed for pet owners, we would just say to keep those wildlife principles in mind when you do have them out: Keep them on leash, keep them away from wild animals just in case, but it is not something necessarily we see transferred from rabbits to dogs," said CPW spokesperson Kara Van Hoose.
Those who own domesticated rabbits are warned that housing them outside increases their chances of infection.
"In domestic rabbits, the disease is more severe than in wild rabbits and should be treated by a veterinarian," CPW said.
CPW also said that the rabbits can fight off the virus on their own, and the agency only gets concerned when the growths cover their eyes or impact their ability to eat.
