Constipation in rabbits

Question
My daughter has a mini rex rabbit. He's 2 years old now. He seems to be constipated. We cleaned his cage yesterday and he hasn't gone since. Is there anything we can do for him as far as diet goes?

Answer
You're right to be concerned. He needs high-fiber foods if he will eat them, such as hay and alfalfa,
the fresher the better, fresh grass if you can get some untainted by pesticides or fertilizers, or other fibrous greens such as parsley, cilantro or carrot tops. However, if he stops eating or eats little, greens, carrots,
pellets, or even starches such as oats should be offered to keep food in his system.

If this does not resolve within 24 hours from now, he probably has the condition known as furblock, or more
recently as gastrointestinal (GI) stasis. This can be a minor problem or a
life-threatening disorder, depending on the severity of the case.

If your bunny seems bloated or acts as if he's got pain, try simethicone (this goes under the trade
names Gas-X, Phazyme and similar). This can do wonders to reduce bloating and pain. It's over the counter for humans and can be
administered at home.

Other home remedies include an over-the counter mineral laxative such as Laxatone or Petromalt; gentle stomach massage; syringe-feeding
and oral hydration if he ceases to eat; and fresh pineapple juice (diluted because of its acidic properties.

For more information about GI stasis and its treatment, see
http://www.rabbit.org/care/gi-stasis.html
and http://www.rabbit.org/journal/3-7/gi.html

If this gets to the point where the remedies aren't working, you will need to see a vet. Many vets who are very good with dogs and cats are clueless
about rabbits, especially their digestive system. The page
http://www.rabbit.org/faq/sections/vet.html has suggestions on how to find
one. There is a list of some vets at http://www.rabbit.org/care/vets.html

You can also contact a nearby House Rabbit Society  chapter or other
rabbit group for suggestions on good local vets. You may be able to find a
nearby group using the HRS contacts page
http://www.rabbit.org/links/index.html

Treatment that would need to be only given by a vet may include mineral oil,
if the vet thinks there is an actual blockage of mostly hair or foreign
objects;
subcutaneous hydration; a gut-motility drug; or
surgery to remove the blockage if the situation is critical.
Also, prescription injectible pain medications such
as banamine can be very helpful in getting the rabbit to start eating
again.

Good luck to all of you. Don't hesitate to write back with more questions.

Gina