My rabbit got fixed today

Question
Today my rabbit got neutered and he hasn't eaten anything all day, he only has had water.
How long will it take until he starts eating before I should get worried?

Answer
Dear Jennifer,

It's not uncommon for a bunny to be inappetent right after surgery.  It's good that he's drinking.  That means he has enough spirit to keep himself hydrated.  But he's feeling sorry for himself, and might not want to eat anything for a half a day.

The sooner you can get him to eat, the better.  Coax him with fresh herbs (parsley, cilantro, mint, basil, dill, fennel, dandelion greens, kale (a real favorite!) and other unusual treats).  Fresh timothy hay is often the first thing a post-op bunny will want.  They usually will turn up their noses at their usual favorite treats--even raisins or banana slices!--until they start to feel better.

Did the vet give him any pain medication?  If he's still not eating by tomorrow, please call the vet and ask about getting bun some Banamine (flunixin meglumine), which is excellent for rabbits and horses (though not safe for dogs, cats, or ferrets; if your vet is afraid of using Banamine, s/he might not be up to date on the latest rabbit medicine!).  Another choice, not as powerful as Banamine, but better than nothing, is meloxicam (Metacam).

Check the surgical site for any sign of excessive swelling, inordinate bleeding, or (heaven forbid!) herniation (intestines coming out the surgical site--rare, but not unheard of).  If you see any of these things, contact the vet for advice.

If bunny is not eating by a day, please see:

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

and print the following for your vet:

www.bio.miami.edu/hare/ileus.pdf

I hope you won't need it.  

Give him lots of love, let him rest, and try the fresh herbs.  They usually do the trick.

Hope he's feeling better soon.  Please write back if you have any other questions or concerns.

Dana