Your Pocket Pet

Your "Pocket Pet"

Q: I have a female rabbit and a friend of mine recently gave me a male rabbit. I would like to keep them together, but I don't want them to breed. Is it safe to have one or both of them neutered?

A: Yes. Female rabbits can be spayed and male rabbits can be neutered in much the same way as cats and dogs. Female rabbits can develop cancer of the uterus as they age, so we advise spaying the female first.

You should still consider having the male neutered at a later date. Male rabbits can be rather aggressive, and neutering will curb their territorial tendencies.

Q: My rabbit isn't eating, what should I do?

When GI stasis occurs, the normal gut flora continues to produce gases and potential toxins. These gases and toxins become trapped in the non-moving GI tract and cause distention of the bowel, which causes stress and pain, which exacerbates the condition. These rabbits need to be seen by a veterinarian as soon as possible. It is likely that your veterinarian will recommend X-rays and possibly bloodwork. In some cases, hospitalization may be necessary.

Call a veterinarian, immediately. There are several possible reasons why your rabbit may not be eating, however, this may be a sign of something called gastrointestinal stasis (or ileus). The normal rabbit GI tract contracts at a fairly normal interval, thereby ensuring that ingesta moves through. When GI stasis occurs, these contractions stop. There are numerous reasons why this normal GI contraction can stop. The most common reason is related to diet. All rabbits need to have free choice Timothy hay (not alfalfa) to eat, and few (if any) rabbit pellets. This provides them with fiber and other nutrients, but more importantly, it keeps their teeth in optimal condition, thereby helping to keep the rest of the digestive system in optimal condition.