Companion Rabbit GI Stasis Emergency Welfare

Gastrointestinal stasis - a life-threatening slowing or cessation of gut motility - is one of the most common and serious welfare emergencies in companion rabbits.

Key Facts

GI stasis can develop within hours and become life-threatening within 24 hours without veterinary intervention.
Common causes include inadequate hay intake, stress, pain from other conditions, dehydration, and dietary imbalance.
Rabbits hide signs of illness due to prey animal instincts, meaning GI stasis is often not detected until it is advanced.
Treatment requires urgent veterinary care including fluid therapy, gut motility drugs, pain relief, and nutritional support.
Prevention is centered on providing unlimited access to fresh hay, which maintains gut motility through constant mechanical stimulation.

Welfare Considerations

GI stasis is a medical emergency that causes significant pain and distress. The cessation of gut movement allows gas to accumulate causing painful bloating, and the rabbit quickly becomes anorexic and inactive. Because rabbits conceal illness, owners may not recognize the emergency until the animal is in severe distress. Early warning signs - reduced droppings, reduced food intake, hunched posture, and teeth grinding - should prompt immediate veterinary contact. The most effective welfare measure is prevention: hay must form at least 80% of a rabbit's diet, water must always be available, and stress must be minimized through appropriate housing, social companionship, and stable routine.

What You Can Do

Ensure your rabbit always has unlimited fresh hay - this is the most important preventive measure.
Learn the early warning signs of GI stasis and seek veterinary advice immediately if concerned.
Find a rabbit-experienced vet before an emergency - not all small animal practices have expertise.
Provide a stable, low-stress environment with appropriate rabbit social companionship.