Hi my rabbit was fine earlier eating and drinking and then strangely when it came to being put outside for exercise he just layed down, he did do some toilets but less poops than usual. Ever since he was put back he just layed in the same place. I have no idea what is wrong. We have used a syringe to get him to drink some water but could not get him to eat. For now we have put him back and drawn a marker on the water bottle to check if it goes down. I am worried as he was fine one moment and then all of a sudden just will not eat. Does anyone know if it is a virus or other condition?
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Rabbit sudden change
- Thread starter Scrufox86
- Start date
Update. I check on him a couple of hours after we had brought him inside to get him to eat and i saw him eating away. Also earlier this morning he was moving like his usual self and had drunk from his water bottle as well as eaten a lot more food. I have no idea what happened but he is back to normal now. Anyone ever had this happen before? He went a bit like it once before but it didn't last long so i put it down to him sulking coz he was unable to get outside as there was a storm. Could it have been an upset stomach?
prettylupin
Wise Old Thumper
Yes it could have been an acute bloat or ileus from stress or another underlying cause, they can recover from these episodes by themselves sometimes but I would personally never take that chance and would seek vet attention if I were you next time it happens. He does seem to have a history of this so I think a vet check up would be a good idea tomorrow to check for any underlying health issues. If it was a bloat/ilues these can lurk around and persist on and off for a few weeks so again a vet check up is a good idea. I'm glad he's feeling better.....I would encourage him to eat lots of nice yummy leaves/hay today to try and knock this on the head.
Edited to say I think there could potentially be something like underlying dental issues and these episodes could be pain related so I would def suggest a check up with a good rabbit vet. good luck
I agree totally with prettylupin & her advice.
Re. your question, I've had these short episodes twice before - he'd blocked his lower bowel with fur balls, & managed to pass them on his own just before an emergency vets appointment! That was simply good fortune.
He also has dental problems. Treating his teeth, helped his diet & has virtually stopped the stomach problems, some of which were life threatening & needed hospital admission.
There are many other causes for this problem which is why you need a good rabbit vet.
I've had many longer lasting episodes for a different reason. Early diagnosis & treatment was literally life saving. I never know if it will be a short or long problem.
Rabbits don't sulk like this just cos they can't go out. May have a temper tantrum or be very naughty!!!!
Hope this helps. Judy & Thumper.
