Constipation in our rabbit can go unnoticed because they are not animals that easily show symptoms of illness. That is why we must pay attention to them, since constipation, intestinal stasis or hypomotility or paralytic ileus is a serious problem that occurs relatively frequently.
Although at first glance it may seem like a minor disorder, the truth is that in rabbits it can be fatal in most cases. There are several causes that cause it, but it is always a veterinary emergency Continue reading this article on our site if you want to know more aboutconstipation in rabbits , its symptoms and treatment.
Symptoms of constipation in rabbits
The appearance of symptoms such as the following is more than enough reason for us to contact a veterinarian immediately:
- Abdominal swelling.
- Stomach ache.
- Gases.
- Anorexy.
- Dehydration.
- Lethargy.
- Hunched posture.
- Thick saliva.
- Decreased amount of urine excreted.
- If there are stools, they will be different than usual and may be covered with whitish mucus.
If there is a total absence of faeces, it will be necessary to go to the emergency vet, since the animal could die.
My rabbit doesn't poop, what do I do?
Constipation in rabbits requires veterinary attention. If stools occur but are abnormal, very small or look different than usual, we also need to seek professional help, as constipation can be total or partial.
Causes of constipation in rabbits
There are several causes that trigger it and it will be the veterinarian who must offer us a diagnosis.
- Inadequate diet: it is often due to a poor diet, with an excess of carbohydrates or protein. As we indicate in this article on What do rabbits eat?, the rabbit's diet should be based on fresh green food, plenty of hay and very few pellets.
- Change in diet: a sudden change in diet can also prevent our rabbit from pooping. Changes in the diet of rabbits should be done very gradually and gradually.
- Stress: due to the nature of the rabbit as a prey animal, they are very delicate in situations of stress, so being in a noisy or new environment, where the animal is afraid, can cause intestinal arrest due to stress.
- Pain: Pain from other he alth problems can also cause constipation in rabbits. In this case, the vet will prescribe painkillers for our furry companion. So that you know how to recognize the signs of pain in rabbits, you can read this other article called 15 signs of pain in rabbits.
- Poisoning: if our rabbit has eaten something bad or some type of food that is difficult for him to digest, it can also cause a intestinal stoppage, most of the time temporary.
- If he stops eating: it may also be the case that, due to dental problems or insufficient physical activity, our rabbit may stop eating. eating, leading to intestinal arrest.
- Post-Surgery: If the rabbit has undergone abdominal surgery, constipation may also be due to adhesions.
- Intestinal Obstructions: A prominent cause of constipation in rabbits is obstruction caused by foreign bodies, hairballs, swellings or masses.
- Dehydration: In severely dehydrated rabbits, the contents of their digestive system also become dehydrated and stop circulating, leading to constipation.
In any case, due to the characteristics of the digestive system of this species, hypomotility has repercussions on glucose production, being the cause of hypoglycemia in rabbits that can result in hepatic lipidosis andthe death of the animal Therefore, partial or total constipation is an emergency that should make us run to the vet at the first symptom. The rabbit's survival depends on it.
How to cure constipation in rabbits: treatment
Since there is more than one possible cause of constipation in rabbits, the veterinarian will ask us about their living conditions, their symptoms or changes in their routine and will examine and palpate the abdomen in search of the origin of the problem. If necessary, he or she may X-ray to observe the state of the digestive system, although sometimes an obstruction cannot be seen. An ultrasound may also be done. The blood test is recommended to obtain general information on the state of the rabbit.
Medicine for constipation in rabbits
Medications for constipation in rabbits will largely depend on the state of the rabbit and the cause of the constipation:
- Illness treatment: if any illness is detected, the vet will prescribe a specific treatment to combat it. Here we leave you the most common diseases of rabbits.
- Constipation medicine: To stimulate intestinal motility, you can prescribe a medicine for constipation in rabbits, as long as the cause is not an obstruction. Massages and physical activity will also facilitate evacuation.
- Fluid administration: In the most severe cases, intravenous or intraosseous fluid administration may also be chosen, since the Good hydration is essential for bowel movement. Fluids may also be injected subcutaneously or given orally using a nasogastric tube. Feeding, since it is essential for the rabbit to eat, will be continued by the veterinarian with a probe or syringe, administering a special preparation for rabbits in this situation.
- Pain relievers and gas drugs: if the rabbit is very sore, it will also give us pain relievers, gas drugs and, of course,, will indicate the most appropriate diet rich in fiber to prevent constipation from recurring.
- Antibiotics: In some cases, antibiotics are necessary because constipation increases intestinal bacteria, which would greatly aggravate the condition.
- Gastric protectors: Gastric protectors are also used to prevent ulcers caused by constipation. These can perforate the lining of the stomach and cause peritonitis.
- M alt for cats: in the case of hairballs, m alt for cats can be administered, to take advantage of its laxative effect, or natural pineapple juice, which rehydrates accumulated feces.
- Surgery: If the rabbit does not improve, the last resort is surgery. The forecast will then be reserved.
Once the rabbit recovers, a correct diet, sufficient exercise and good management that minimizes stress, will be the keys to good intestinal he alth and prevent constipation from recurring.
