Overproducing cecals

Question
I recently adopted an estimated 4 year old rabbit from a dog only shelter about a week ago. The shelter was feeding him cabbage and carrots (they didn't know anything about rabbits) for the 3 days he was there. So I have no clue what his previous diet was like.

I started him on Timothy hay and Oxbow Bunny Basics T rabbit food and fresh water. I noticed this weird smear of something that smelled horrible the next morning. I was already taking him to the vet so mentioned it and they kept him overnight to observe feeding him what I feed and the vet said it was him overproducing cecotropes.

I have not used this vet before and this is only my second rabbit ever so while I know quite a bit I only really trust my regular vet who was unfortunately not available.

I was told to put him on a hay and water only diet for a week and a half then start by giving 10 pellets and slowly give more. Does this sound right with overproducing cecals?

The vet did a fecal exam multiple times and found nothing medically that would cause it so came to the conclusion it was from the diet.

Answer
Hi Callie,

If he was getting the incorrect diet he may not be eating the cecotropes.  Since you have corrected the diet you should see him start to eat his cecotropes and there shouldn't be an excess anymore.  I really don't know the science behind it but you can try asking Dana Krempels.  She has some great articles on bunny poop and proper diet.

Sorry I can't be of more assistance.

Pam