Companion Animals

Rabbit GI Stasis Welfare and Prevention

Gastrointestinal stasis is a life-threatening emergency in rabbits causing severe abdominal pain, often preventable through diet, exercise, and early detection of slowing gut motility.

Key Facts

GI stasis occurs when normal gut motility slows or stops, allowing gas accumulation
Rabbits in GI stasis may die within 48 hours from toxins absorbed from stagnant gut contents
Inadequate fibre from hay and insufficient exercise are the primary risk factors
Early signs include reduced appetite, small or absent faecal pellets, and hunched posture
Gut motility drugs, pain relief, fluid therapy, and syringe feeding are standard treatment

Welfare Considerations

GI stasis causes intense pain and can be fatal within hours. Prevention through adequate hay, exercise, and prompt veterinary attention saves rabbits from unnecessary suffering.

What You Can Do

Provide unlimited fresh hay as the primary dietary component for pet rabbits
Ensure rabbits have daily exercise in a large space rather than remaining in a hutch
Monitor faecal output daily as an early welfare indicator
Seek emergency veterinary care if your rabbit stops eating or producing droppings