http://www.bio.miami.edu/hare/ileus.html

I suggest you read this article by Dana Krempels and it will answer all your questions.

I believe in other animals & people it is called Colic.

Thanks Sarita.  I am printing this out for the file!!!

I too would refer you to the article by Dana Krempels.  Sage Cat is correct that in humans and horses it is referred to as colic.

Here is some more information on GI stasis.  I am referring you to articles written by some very rabbit savvy people (Dana Kremples & a vet) because I think it is best to present it in a way such that you read the information exactly how it was presented:

http://www.bio.miami.edu/hare/ileus.html

http://www.veterinarypartner.com/Content.plx?P=A&A=484

If you want to discuss it further, just post your questions here and we can have like a “book club” discussion.

A condition becomes stasis when the GI tract becomes “static” or stops.

Some symptoms – not eating, hunched up in pain, lethargy, straining to poop, really small poop (which tells you the GI tract may be partially blocked – not to be confused with cecotropes), grinding of teeth in pain and even really loud noises from the stomach.

Immediate course of action – Read Dana Kremples’ article for this info CALL YOUR VET ASAP

Preventative measures – Even the most diligent person feeding the best diet, giving the best care can have a rabbit go into GI stasis as it can even be caused by stress.  Really a balanced diet, plenty of fiber, toys, a meaningful, enjoyable life. : )

Know to call your vet before you post here.  Every minute counts!  Study up/print out the article and memorize what you should do.  So, if it does happen, you can spring into action quickly.

I think it’s imperative for all bunny owners to know about statis, the symptoms and remedies. Time is crucial when dealing with this and I’ve had a rabbit die from gastrointestinal statis (at least that’s what I strongly believe it was) in a mere few hours despite doing everything I could (there were no rabbit vets to help on Sunday )

It’s a good idea (when I went to Florida I did this) to make up an emergency Gastrointestinal Statis TO DO list for any rabbit sitters if you go away as not every rabbit owner has dealt with this before. It’s also nice to have because some of us (no…not me…lol (hint of sarcasm) tend to panic and get stressed when a bun gets sick, it’s nice to have these steps written down as a guideline. I need to make another one (which maybe I should post?) as my list got misplaced.

Also if you are bringing bunny to the vet and suspect statis, it’s a good idea to tell them when you get there so they can check those symptoms first.

OK so am I going to have to worry about this when I leave Edson with a bunny sitter for 10 days?  She’s a rabbit savvy person so she would definitely know what to do but now I’m worried he will get stressed out at a new place!!!

Don’t stress, write up detailed instructions and how your rabbit usually acts, keep the routine the same, take familiar things like a blanket, some toys, food dish, water bottle or crock to help ease any anxiety. I also does mine with some Rescue Remedy and ask that it be placed in the water for them during the entire time I am gone.

When Sprinkles had about of stasis I rushed her straight to the vet … she was with the ex and he had no idea … he was umming and aarring … imperative that immediate action is taken.

Oh Knowltons4 I can sympathise with you about leaving Edson for 10 days with a sitter.  I am also going off to Bali for 10 days and a friend of mine is actually coming to the house to see to Luey … the piggies are going to my sister’s though.  I hope Luey will be ok by himself for those days and I will be worrying crazy about him … but I am sure that things will be ok for you too.

Luey might even miss me

This is another good one from Dana Krempels.  It is intended for vets, it is very helpful if you have to go to an emegency vet who is not comfortable with rabits  http://www.rabbitcare.org/ileus.pdf

Oh, and for all of these Dana Krempels references!

FYI – I am also adding this to our FAQ section under GI Stasis.