Bunny not eating – help!

[Ree]

Hi,

Went to feed my 2 year old male rabbit this morning, he’s normally very energetic and hops straight out of his pen to get his food.  But he was very quiet and not interested.  He is bonded with a female bunny but I seperated them when I left for work. I noticed he ate a tiny bit of hay before I left and had a bit of water, but I’m really worried about him This isn’t like him at all He’s been fine all weekend and ate all of his veg last night. Should I be worried? Has anyone had any similar instances?

I’ve looked things up on the internet but everything says about them not eating for 24 hours or more? As far as I’m aware there has only been a problem this morning I’m so worried about him.

Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Ree

[Roberta]

Firstly you need to book him into the vet. There is a standard protocol for this sort of thing but it is first aid only and should be followed up by a check up.
Not eating is usually caused by pain, possibly from teeth, gas, blockages or other problems. Encouraging gut movement can be achieved with gentle tummy massage and simethicone (baby gas drops from the chemist) Give one ml initially and a second dose 3 hrs later after that you can give it morning and evening. You need to get some food in there, Oxbow Critical Care is best and is fed with an oral syringe, usually 10 ml or more if possible. If you can’t get critical care you can make a slurry from crushed pellets, water and a little juice or mashed pumpkin. If he isn’t drinking you can also syringe feed small amounts of water. Try offering lots of his favourite greens especially the aromatic ones like cilantro, basil and parsley. Change his litter trays frequently so you can monitor poops and pee.

[Little Lion Head]

Is there a reason you separated the two if they are bonded? Maybe he was sad/depressed? How is he now?

[Roberta]

how is your bunny today ?

[Ree]

Hi All, Sorry it’s taken me so long to reply! Firstly – thank you everyone for your help. Secondly – all is well in Pickles world again I panicked when he wouldn’t eat anything that morning as it is so unlike him, I have no idea what was wrong with him. Now he is absolutely fine.

I seperated them just for the day so I could keep an eye on his eating and pooping. And I’m pleased to report he is absolutely fine now! I gave him a big batch of Timothy hay and he scoffed the lot, after that things seemed to return to normal. I even took him to the office with me the next day to make sure he was ok! I am officially the carzy bunny lady Thank you so much for your help all it really means alot xx

[drwil]

Separation can be stressful.

[Author]

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