High🐰
My rabbit stopped eating (GI stasis)
In rabbits, not eating for > 12 h is an emergency: their gut must move constantly.
Critical window: 12–24 h.
Danger
High
Timing
Critical window: 12–24 h.
Severity
Vet advice required
Symptoms to watch
- No droppings or tiny ones
- Bloated or silent belly
- Hunched, listless posture
- Refuses hay
Do immediately
- 1Gently warm the rabbit if cold.
- 2Offer fresh hay and grass.
- 3Contact an exotic-pet vet urgently (fluids, syringe feeding).
Absolutely avoid
- No dry pellets if the rabbit isn't drinking.
- Don't wait 'until tomorrow': 24 h can be fatal.
When to call the vet
Always treat as an emergency.
FAQ
Should I wait for symptoms?
No. In pet emergencies, symptoms can be delayed: call a vet as soon as exposure or doubt occurs.
Can I give a home remedy?
Avoid home remedies without veterinary advice: some worsen poisoning, pain or aspiration risk.
Prevention tips
- Keep medicines, toxins and small objects in closed cabinets.
- Watch for changes in appetite, stool, breathing or behaviour.
- Prepare a card with weight, history and vet contact for your pet.
Other emergencies to know
This content is educational and does not replace a veterinary consultation.