Companion Animals

Rabbit GI Stasis Emergency Welfare

Gastrointestinal stasis is the most common veterinary emergency in pet rabbits, with cessation of gut movement being rapidly fatal without prompt treatment.

Key Facts

GI stasis can progress from onset to critical condition within hours
Pain from gut cramping causes rabbits to become still and stop eating
Causes include low fibre diet, dehydration, stress, and dental disease
Immediate veterinary attention is essential - gut stimulants, pain relief, and fluid therapy
Prevention through ad libitum hay provision is the most effective strategy

Welfare Considerations

GI stasis welfare requires rabbit owners to recognise early signs and seek veterinary attention urgently. The welfare cost of delayed treatment is severe. Prevention through appropriate diet with unlimited hay, water access, and stress minimisation is far more effective than treatment.

What You Can Do

Provide unlimited timothy hay as the main diet component to prevent GI stasis
Know the signs of GI stasis and have an emergency vet contact for rabbits
Seek veterinary attention within hours if your rabbit stops eating or producing droppings