QuestionMy five-year old rabbit died in our backyard in his play area. He was bloated and stiff as a rock within no more than a hour on a slightly warm summer day. He was resting near a crab apple tree. We know there have been black widows in our backyard. My question is what is the likely cause of death? We think it was a poisonness spider or he got stung by a bee or other similar insects that were attracted to the crab apples. I never saw a snake in the backyard. I want to let our new rabbit play in the backyard, but I am afraid I'll find him dead too. Could it have been that our rabbit had a stroke or heart attack. I want to have the new rabbit outside unsupervised if possible so he can get out while I care for my young child.
AnswerDear Vera,
Sorry for the delay. We had a bit of computer down time and I'm only now able to access AllExperts. :(
Unfortunately, without a necropsy including histopathology of all major organ tissues and a LOT more information, there is absolutely no way to determine the cause of death. It could have been any of a dozen different things, from acute bloat to a heart attack.
It's not all that likely that a venomous spider was the culprit if this was outdoors in an open area. I'm not sure what types of venomous snakes you might have there, but it's not likely a snake would strike and then not attempt to eat the prey.
It is never safe to have a bunny outdoors unsupervised for the sad reason you discovered. I wish it were otherwise. It would be safer for you to create a bunny-safe playroom where the bunny can have free running time without the fear of environmental dangers (of unknown source!) that can kill without warning.
I am very sorry about your loss.
Dana