Understanding Gastrointestinal Stasis in Rabbits: Causes, Symptoms, and Prevention

As pet parents, one of the most important things we need to know about our rabbits is the risk of gastrointestinal stasis, a common and potentially life-threatening condition. GI stasis can occur quickly, so understanding its causes, recognizing the symptoms, and knowing how to prevent it is essential for every rabbit owner. Here’s everything you need to know to keep your bunny happy, healthy, and hopping!

What is Gastrointestinal Stasis?

Gastrointestinal stasis (GI stasis) occurs when a rabbit’s digestive system slows down or stops moving entirely. This leads to food, hair, and gas building up in the stomach and intestines, causing discomfort and potentially serious complications.

Rabbits rely on a constant flow of fibre through their digestive tract to keep things moving. When this process is disrupted, harmful bacteria can build up, leading to gas and bloating that can make the condition even worse. If left untreated, GI stasis can become life-threatening very quickly.

What Causes GI Stasis in Rabbits?

Several factors can contribute to GI stasis in rabbits, including:

• Dietary Issues: A diet low in fibre or lacking in hay can slow the digestive system.
• Dehydration: Insufficient water intake can cause food to move too slowly through the gut.
• Stress: Changes in the environment, loud noises, travel, or illness can stress rabbits and affect digestion.
• Lack of Exercise: Rabbits need regular movement to keep their digestion healthy.
• Dental Problems: Overgrown teeth can make eating difficult, reducing food intake.
• Underlying Illness: Other health issues, such as infections or pain, can cause rabbits to eat less.

Recognizing the Symptoms of GI Stasis

The earlier you spot the signs of GI stasis, the better the chances of recovery. Watch for the following symptoms:

• Lack of Appetite: Your rabbit refuses food, including their favourite treats.
• Reduced or No Faecal Pellets: A noticeable drop in the amount or size of droppings.
• Lethargy: Your rabbit becomes unusually quiet or reluctant to move.
• Hunched Posture: Rabbits in discomfort may hunch over or appear tense.
• Abdominal Discomfort: Signs of gas pain include pressing their belly to the ground or teeth grinding.

If you notice any of these signs, it’s crucial to seek veterinary attention immediately. GI stasis can worsen quickly, so don’t delay treatment.

Preventing Gastrointestinal Stasis

Prevention is key when it comes to GI stasis. Here are some steps you can take to keep your rabbit’s digestive system healthy:

1. Provide Unlimited Access to High-Fibre Hay

Hay is the cornerstone of a healthy rabbit diet. It’s rich in fiber, which helps keep the digestive tract moving smoothly – Timothy hay is an excellent choice.

• Tip: Always offer fresh and freely available hay and encourage your rabbits to graze constantly. Science Selective Timothy Hay is a great option, providing the essential fibre rabbits need for digestive health.

2. Feed a Balanced Diet

In addition to giving your rabbits free access to graze on fresh hay, provide:

• High-Quality Pellets: Science Selective Rabbit Food offers the right balance of fibre, vitamins, and nutrients.
• Fresh Greens: Leafy greens like romaine lettuce, parsley, and kale add variety and hydration.
• Treats in Moderation: Avoid sugary or starchy treats, as these can disrupt digestion.

3. Ensure Hydration

Rabbits need access to clean, fresh water at all times. Proper hydration helps food pass through their digestive system efficiently.

• Top Tip: Some rabbits drink more water when it’s offered in a bowl rather than a bottle. You could also try a rabbit water fountain to encourage drinking.

4. Support with Digestive Supplements

For rabbits prone to digestive issues or GI stasis, adding a digestive supplement to their diet can be beneficial.

• Science Selective Digestive Care Supplements: These easy-to-feed supplements feature natural prebiotics to help support a healthy gut microbiome and promote efficient digestion. They’re designed to complement a high-fibre diet, making them an excellent choice for rabbits who need extra digestive support.

5. Encourage Exercise

Regular activity helps stimulate your rabbit’s digestion and prevents the gut from slowing down.

• Provide plenty of space for your rabbit to hop, explore, and exercise every day.

6. Monitor Dental Health

Overgrown teeth can lead to reduced food intake and digestive problems. Regular vet check-ups and a diet high in hay will help keep your rabbit’s teeth in good shape.

What to Do if You Suspect GI Stasis

If you think your rabbit may have GI stasis, take the following steps:

1. Contact a Veterinarian Immediately: GI stasis is an emergency, and early treatment is critical.
2. Keep Your Rabbit Warm and Comfortable: Rabbits in distress can become cold, so ensure they are warm and in a quiet, stress-free environment.
3. Do Not Force Feed: Unless directed by a vet, avoid force-feeding your rabbit, as this can worsen the condition.

Your vet may prescribe treatments such as fluid therapy, pain relief, or motility medications to get the digestive system moving again.

After your rabbit has received veterinary treatment, your vet may advise you to assist feed to help get their digestive system functioning properly again. Science Selective Recovery Plus is a nutritionally complete rehydratable, syringe feeding diet designed to provide intensive nutritional support. It is ideal for syringe feeding or self-feeding from a bowl and full instructions are available from your prescribing vet or our Feeding Guide. It helps to aid effective recovery from GI Stasis and provides nutritional support during critical care situations.

The Role of Diet in Rabbit Health

A healthy diet is your rabbit’s best defence against GI stasis. At Supreme Petfoods, we understand the importance of providing species-specific nutrition that meets your rabbit’s unique needs. Our Science Selective range is designed to support digestive health with high fibre, natural ingredients, and no added sugars.

• Timothy Hay: Essential for fibre and dental health.
• Fresh Greens: Leafy greens like romaine lettuce, parsley, and kale add fibre to the diet and assist hydration.
• Rabbit Nuggets: Balanced nutrition tailored to life stages and lifestyles.
• Digestive Care Supplements: A targeted way to support your rabbit’s digestive health and prevent common issues like GI stasis.

By feeding a high-fibre diet and maintaining good care practices, you can help your rabbit stay healthy and avoid gastrointestinal issues.

Final Thoughts

Gastrointestinal stasis is a serious condition, but with the right care, diet, and awareness, it can often be prevented. Pay attention to your rabbit’s behaviour, provide a fibre-rich diet, try to avoid stressful situations, and ensure they have plenty of water and exercise. If you notice any symptoms of GI stasis, act quickly and consult your veterinarian immediately.

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