Rabbit Condition

Question
Hi We have a pet rabbit that is about 7 years old and he has always been very healthy he dirty around his rear end and I noticed he had a small bit if mucus like a string attached to one of his stools. Would you think that you might know aht is going on with him? He is not lathargic or listless but some thing is going on with him. Thank you sincerely Jerry Lynn

Answer
Dear Jerry,

Mucus in the stool is a sign of enteritis (inflammation of the intestinal lining), and could be a problem if it continues.  If his bottom has been messy for a long time, this could be one reason for the inflammation.  Please read:

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

and find a good vet here to help you:

www.rabbit.org/vets

The most common reasons for intestinal problems in rabbits are incorrect diet, which you can check here:

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

and pain/stress from dental problems, such as molar spurs:

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

If his diet is fine, then be *sure* you ask the vet to do a deep oral exam to check for molar spurs and file them, as necessary.

I hope this helps.

Dana