Whimpering while using litterbox?

[Meowschnitzel]

So my rabbit, Poopy, is about six years old now, and he’s a type of rex rabbit- so he’s not a spry little bun anymore. Recently, he’s been doing this strange thing where he kind of whines/whimpers when using his litter box. At least, that’s the best I can describe the sound. He’s very well-trained with the box and uses it religiously, except for some little territorial poops left around the house. When he’s out and about the place, he doesn’t make any strange or unusual noises. It only happens when he’s using his box, and it doesn’t happen every time, but enough to cause concern. 

What confuses me even more is it’s not like he looks uncomfortable. He’s still nibbling on his hay while he’s using the box, his ears aren’t flat, he looks as alert and content as ever. I haven’t changed his litter or the litter box at all, so I doubt it’s an issue of environment. Outside of the box, I haven’t seen any indication of GI statis or gas build-up (he’s had GI stasis before, so I’m unfortunately well-acquainted with the warning signs). He doesn’t press his belly, his stomach isn’t hard, and he’s about as active as an older bunny should be. 

Is he actually whimpering? Or is he passing gas? Can rabbits fart? Sorry, guys, I don’t even really know what to ask.  But is this normal, or does this sound like a red flag?

[Wick & Fable]

Is the whimpering happen primarily while he’s grazing on hay? Some rabbits make tiny oink oink sounds sort of when they are eating/grooming themselves, and it’s not a negative sound.

If you find it occurring primarily when your rabbit is peeing/pooping, then I’d be concerned that he may have some pain/discomfort while urinating. Hypothetically, you may not see signs of it outside the litterbox because perhaps it only occurs when he’s urinating — but that’s just a thought that fits what you’re describing!

The answers provided in this discussion are for general guideline purposes only. The information is not intended to diagnose or treat your pet. Seek the advice of your veterinarian or a qualified behaviorist.

[Meowschnitzel]

Posted By Wick on 2/16/2019 3:21 PM

Is the whimpering happen primarily while he’s grazing on hay? Some rabbits make tiny oink oink sounds sort of when they are eating/grooming themselves, and it’s not a negative sound.

If you find it occurring primarily when your rabbit is peeing/pooping, then I’d be concerned that he may have some pain/discomfort while urinating. Hypothetically, you may not see signs of it outside the litterbox because perhaps it only occurs when he’s urinating — but that’s just a thought that fits what you’re describing!

He honks when he eats his hay and foods, but this is different from honking for sure. It sounds like a small whimper you’d hear from a tiny puppy.

I hadn’t considered an issue with peeing. That actually sounds like the most possible. I’ll take him to the vet this weekend then, for safe measure. Thank you!

[LBJ10]

I agree with Wick. It could be pain/discomfort while peeing. There are several things that could cause that including a UTI or crystals in the bladder. The only way to know for sure is to have a vet take a look. Good luck!

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