Companion Animal Welfare

Rabbit GI Stasis Prevention Through Diet

Gastrointestinal stasis is a life-threatening condition in rabbits that is largely preventable through appropriate diet and husbandry.

Key Facts

GI stasis occurs when gut motility slows, allowing harmful gas accumulation
Hay should form 80-90% of a rabbit's diet to maintain gut motility
Insufficient fibre is the leading preventable cause of GI stasis
Signs include reduced droppings, hunched posture and loss of appetite
Emergency vet treatment is often required and delay can be fatal

Welfare Considerations

GI stasis causes significant acute pain and distress and kills many pet rabbits every year. Most cases are preventable through correct diet with unlimited high-quality hay as the foundation.

What You Can Do

Ensure your rabbit has constant access to unlimited high-quality hay
Limit pellets and treat vegetables that can displace hay from the diet
Learn the early signs of GI stasis and seek emergency veterinary care immediately