Companion Animal Welfare

Rabbit GI Stasis Emergency Recognition

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

Key Facts

GI stasis can become fatal within 24-48 hours without treatment
Signs include no faeces production, hunched posture, grinding teeth and refusing food
Dehydration, stress, low-fibre diet and insufficient exercise are key contributing factors
Gut contents can harden and become impacted, requiring fluid therapy and gut motility drugs
Early treatment with analgesics, fluid support and syringe feeding dramatically improves survival

Welfare Considerations

GI stasis causes intense pain and distress. Every rabbit owner should recognise the signs and treat this as a veterinary emergency requiring same-day attention.

What You Can Do

Monitor daily faeces production - any reduction is an urgent warning sign
Ensure your rabbit has unlimited access to hay and fresh water at all times
Keep an emergency vet contact ready; never wait until morning if stasis is suspected