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FORUM HOUSE RABBIT Q & A He won’t eat critical care

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    • Cas
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        I just had Pepper neutered a couple of days ago and he will NOT eat the apple/banana critical care that the vet sent home. I’ve tried mixing it with pellets, greens, blueberries (which he loves), raspberries, and I tried mint (which he loves) hoping it would overpower the apple/banana smell and flavor. He isn’t having any of it. The vet just said keep trying. Is there any weird trick anyone has tried that worked? He doesn’t seem to be having any problems but I’d feel a lot better if he would eat it.


      • sarahthegemini
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          Are you attempting to syringe/force feed?


        • Cas
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            Posted By sarahthegemini on 8/22/2018 7:43 AM
            Are you attempting to syringe/force feed?

            No. My vet told me I didnt need to force feed it to him. She said it’s not absolutely necessary.

            I can barely manage to give him his pain meds. I dont know that I could feed him. We just got him a few weeks ago so we haven’t bonded completely yet. He doesn’t trust me that much, I think.


          • sarahthegemini
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              I’m a little confused about your vet. If she has recommended critcal care, I assume that’s because your boy isn’t eating (enough) on his own? In which case, if he won’t take it willingly, he’ll need force feeding.

              If he IS eating plenty on his own, then he won’t need critical care at all.

              Force feeding can be incredibly difficult. And I can understand how daunting it is, especially as he’s still so ‘new’ to you. But if it’s needed, it’s needed.

              I have had to force feed my doe before a few times. We lured her into her carrier, then put the carrier on top of a high surface (breakfast bar/table), took the top of the carrier off and wrapped a blanket around her ‘burrito style’ I think that would probably be the most difficult bit tbh – the picking and wrapping but if you’re able to do that, syringe feeding is relatively easy. If you don’t know about the bunny burrito, check out youtube for a tutorial. Once bun is securely wrapped, they can’t wriggle or squirm free. You can then lift the upper lip and slot the syringe in the side of their mouth (there’s a gap between front teeth and back teeth – put the syringe there) The most important thing is to push the syringe slowly and stop regularly to ensure bun is able to swallow.

              Honestly, I can completely understand your hesitation. It’s scary having to pick up a rabbit when you’re not experienced or confident. I’ve had my boy for 2 years almost and have JUST started picking him up as he needs medication. First few times were stressful but we managed and it’s gotten a lot easier.


            • Cas
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                The vet sent it home because that’s what she does apparently. He’s eating tons of hay, his pellets, and greens. His appetite is just fine. I was under the impression he needed it no matter what to prevent some gut problems. If he doesn’t really need it, that would be reassuring.


              • sarahthegemini
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                  Then I wouldn’t bother with the CC. It’s really unnecessary if his appetite is great!


                • Cas
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                    Thank you so much! I’m so glad I asked.


                  • Bunny House
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                      Buns only need cc when they don’t eat on their own, and he might just prefer the different flavors they offer.

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                  FORUM HOUSE RABBIT Q & A He won’t eat critical care