Although constipation in rabbits can be somewhat temporary and relatively easy to cure, sometimes it may require a much more specific and careful treatment. In this post, we will see how to identify the signs of constipation in rabbits and what is the most appropriate treatment for them.

¿What are the causes of constipation in rabbits?

There are several causes that can trigger constipation in rabbits. By their nature, these animals need to evacuate several times a day so a problem of gastrointestinal stasis, as it is known to constipation in rabbits, can lead to serious health problems.

Some of the triggers of constipation in rabbits is the lack of physical activity of the animal, high levels of stress, stressful situations, poor eating or some other related diseases or pathologies.

Signs of intestinal stasis

It is usually easy to detect symptoms of constipation or intestinal stasis in rabbits. In principle, our pet may stop eating food as usual.

The depositions of rabbits are small and round in appearance, with an average length of 1cm in diameter. When these bowel movements are not seen in your sandbox, the rabbit may have stopped evacuating.

Also, it is possible to find in your sandbox very small stools and with a yellowish mucus.

The belly of constipated rabbits is usually inflamed and lacks the characteristic sound of peristaltic bowel movements.

In addition, the rabbit is likely to be lethargic, without energy or lying in its cage. You may also grind your aching teeth.

Treatment of constipation in rabbits

Once the signs of constipation in the rabbit have been detected, it is convenient to take our pet to a consultation with the veterinarian, in order to determine the severity of the pathology.

The specialist, through an x-ray, can analyze the condition of the intestine and determine the best possible treatment alternative.

From the diagnosis of constipation or intestinal stasis, the veterinarian can prescribe medications that decrease gas production, in order to reduce pain in the animal.

The veterinarian can also administer antibiotics to reduce the amount of bacteria that are lodged in the intestine of the rabbit and prevent the normal evacuation of the animal.

Occasionally, treatment may include intravenous fluid injection in order to soften the mass found in the intestines.

Food quality is essential in the treatment of constipation in rabbits. The veterinarian recommends the intake of fresh hay and green vegetables, which help normalize bowel movements.

With a balanced diet and constant physical activity, it is possible to avoid the risk of intestinal stasis or constipation in rabbits. Remember that eating fresh hay is essential to keep your digestive system operational under optimal conditions.