Rabbit GI Stasis: Emergency Recognition and Care

Gastrointestinal stasis is a life-threatening emergency in rabbits where gut motility stops, requiring immediate veterinary intervention.

Key Facts

GI stasis occurs when gut motility slows or stops, causing painful gas and toxin buildup
It is one of the leading causes of death in pet rabbits
Causes include inadequate hay intake, stress, pain, dehydration, and dietary changes
Signs include hunched posture, tooth grinding, reluctance to move, and no droppings
Cecotrope consumption stops early in GI stasis episodes
Treatment involves fluid therapy, pain relief, gut motility drugs, and syringe feeding
A rabbit not eating for more than 12-24 hours requires urgent veterinary attention

Welfare Considerations

GI stasis causes severe, escalating pain in rabbits. The condition is often fatal without prompt treatment, and the suffering involved is profound. Rabbits instinctively hide pain and illness, meaning owners may not recognize stasis until it is advanced. Prevention through unlimited hay, fresh water, and a low-stress environment is far preferable to emergency treatment. Owners who recognize early signs and seek same-day veterinary care save their rabbit's life.

What You Can Do

Provide unlimited high-quality grass hay as the foundation of your rabbit's diet
Monitor daily for normal droppings, eating, and cecotrope consumption
Seek emergency veterinary care if your rabbit stops eating or producing droppings
Minimize sudden dietary changes and stress in your rabbit's environment
Establish a relationship with a rabbit-savvy vet before emergencies occur