Gastrointestinal stasis is the leading cause of veterinary emergency in pet rabbits. It is almost entirely preventable through correct diet, and its prevention is a core rabbit welfare requirement.
GI stasis is a welfare crisis that is almost entirely preventable. The pain of gut stasis is significant — rabbits in stasis show teeth grinding, hunched posture, and refusal to move. Without emergency treatment, affected rabbits die in distress. The root cause is dietary: the widespread availability and marketing of inappropriate commercial rabbit foods creates the conditions for stasis. Owner education about hay as the primary diet is the single most important rabbit welfare intervention.