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Gas/Stasis

22 10:30:17

Question
Hi Dana - I need some help.

I am quite knowledgeable about gas and stasis, but right now I need some more information.

My bunny Basil has always had some bouts of gas - usually with a dose or two of ovol, he is fine within a couple of hours.  He always sits hunched and teeth grinding, etc. so it is very obvious.

Today at 1 pm I noticed he wasn't eating.  He ate all his food from last night, but didn't eat any today.  I have been giving him ovol all day and gave him some critical care.  How do I know when we are in trouble and perhaps it's more than gas?  I have read all the articles (rabbit.org etc.), but don't know what to do.  Is this stasis?  He hasn't pooped or eaten anything since 1 pm and it's now 10:30.  Do I need to rush him to a vet?  He is still hunched, not moving and seems to be shaking a bit.

Thanks,
Karen

Answer
Dear Karen,

When a rabbit acts this sick, it's time for a trip to the vet.  The internet is not usually going to provide an answer quickly enough, especially if you already know most of what to do.

Please see:

www.bio.miami.edu/hare/sickbun.html

for information on how to tell just how sick your bunny is, and what to do.  Taking his temperature is about the most important thing you can do when he's like this, since hypothermia can be extremely dangerous, and can result from something as simple as gas pain causing him to go shocky.

Hyperthermia would indicate an infection that needs veterinary treatment.

I hope your bunny is better now, and I hope this helps.

Dana