I think Simethicone is a great med for rabbit owners to have on hand- it is non prescription- and it is not absorbed into the stomach or GI tract- but it works to help break up gas bubbles- so it works “mechanically”. There are little to no side affects and to dose it when you are first noticing off symptoms is unlikely to harm the rabbit in any way. I suppose if the rabbit had a complete blockage in the gut or stomach it would not be suggesting to give anything orally- but most rabbits are treated medically with prescription meds to get the gut moving and surgery as a last resort- so I can’t imagine the small amount of Simethicone 1-3mls could pose that much of any issue.
As long as someone does not rely on Simethicone to nurse a bunny thru a bad bout of GI issues- I think it can be very helpful. WIth what I went thru with Schroeder a few months ago- he would not have made it without the pain meds, force feedings, and fluids.
But I have given it to Cotton once ot twice when she seemed “off”- not interested in treats, not as active- and within hours she was normal. Did the Simethicone help? I am not sure, but it is hard to see a bunny not begging for treats and anything that could help with a little to no chance of causing harm is worth it.