GI STASIS

Did you know rabbits produce two types of “poop”?

Fecal pellets, the hard round marbles we are used to seeing in the litter box, and cecotropes, soft grape-like “poops” which are nutrient-dense and normally reingested by your rabbit.

When a rabbit is stressed, dehydrated, in pain or sick, suffering from intestinal blockage, dental disease, or not taking in enough fiber (hay), their gastrointestinal tract slows down or stops. This will result in death in a very short period of time, possibly within 24 hours, if left untreated.

If your rabbit stops eating or slows down/stops production of fecal matter for 12 hours, get them immediate veterinary attention.

Symptoms of GI Stasis include, but are not limited to:

Very small or no fecal pellets that sometimes attach to your bunnies bottom.

Very small pellets that may be encased in a yellowish mucous - this should be treated as an emergency.

Your rabbits normal quiet tummy sounds will be replaced with either loud, violent gurgles, or be completely silent.

Your rabbit may be hunched in a ball, become completely lethargic, have zero appetite, or loudly crunch their teeth in distress.

For more information on GI Stasis, please follow the links below to further your education.

If you think your rabbit may be experiencing GI Stasis, get them immediate Veterinary attention from their regular doctor, take them to an emergency vet after hours or drive to K-State if you have to. If left untreated your rabbit will die.