A BUNNY which suffered such serious neglect that its insides were slowly eaten away by maggots is being used as an example by an animal rescue charity to highlight the plight of rabbits.

18-month-old Angus was found suffering from fly strike after he was left behind when his owners moved house.

This is a potentially fatal condition principally caused by neglect when rabbits are left in dirty hutches and flies, attracted by the smell, lay eggs on the animals. The hatched maggots then climb inside the rabbit and eat its flesh.

Lorraine Mawdsley, a volunteer for Warrington Animal Welfare where Angus, an albino rabbit, is waiting for a new home, said: “Rabbits are very affectionate but are the most overlooked and neglected family pets.

“It is a must for a healthy happy rabbit to have daily exercise in a large, safe grassy area.

“It’s so cruel to have a pet rabbit just to condem it to a lonely life living in a wooden box.”

With International Rabbit Day today, Thursday, vets are also encouraging owners to look after their pets.

Hestla Bink, of Beech House veterinary surgery on Wilderspool Causeway, said: “A pet rabbit needs constant handling, fresh bedding, checking they do not get fly strike and, most importantly, six monthly vaccinations against Myxamatosis.”

Anyone looking to adopt or foster a rescued bunny should contact Warrington Animal Welfare on 07837 344418 or 07772 722709.