Companion Animals

GI Motility Disorders and Welfare in Rabbits

Gastrointestinal motility disorders including GI stasis are among the leading welfare emergencies in pet rabbits, causing rapid deterioration if not treated promptly.

Key Facts

GI stasis occurs when gut movement slows or stops, allowing gas and cecotropes to accumulate
Stasis is rapidly life-threatening; rabbits can deteriorate within 12-24 hours
Common triggers include stress, pain, inappropriate diet and dehydration
High-fibre hay diets are the cornerstone of GI health prevention
Pain assessment and analgesia are central to appropriate treatment

Welfare Considerations

GI stasis causes extreme abdominal pain from gas accumulation, leading to hunched posture, tooth grinding and progressive deterioration. The condition can progress to fatal gut torsion or cecal impaction. Rabbits are highly stoic and may mask early signs, meaning the condition can be advanced before owners recognise it. Prompt veterinary assessment and treatment dramatically improves welfare outcomes.

What You Can Do

Provide unlimited hay as the basis of your rabbit's diet
Monitor daily gut sounds, faecal output and appetite in your rabbits
Seek immediate veterinary attention if your rabbit stops eating or defecating
Reduce stress in rabbit environments through appropriate housing and socialisation
Learn to recognise early signs of GI stasis through rabbit welfare resources