In most cases, a rabbit laying on their side is just sleeping. They aren’t sick or dying in any way. Instead, this is a position rabbits will sleep in when they feel completely safe and secure in their environment. This is what’s called a rabbit flop.
What do I do if my rabbit is not moving?
If your rabbit is quieter than normal, is sitting still and hunched up, does not want to move about, or has not eaten for more than 12 hours, contact your vet as soon as possible.
Why is my rabbit limp and lifeless?
Rabbit is limp, floppy or cold
The common end point of dehydration, shock or sepsis is a weak floppy rabbit, often with cold ears. They tend to sit hunched in a corner and ‘feel funny’ when you pick them up. Wrap them up warmly and get to the vet ASAP.
How do I know if my rabbit is in pain?
Often a rabbit in pain will sit hunched up, unwilling to move. A rabbit that sits hunched up, with eyes half closed, and firm teeth grinding is likely in pain and needs a vet check form filled out and supervisor notified.
What are the symptoms of a sick bunny?
Subtle signs of illness in a rabbit vary and can include:
- Slow movement, staying still or hiding away.
- Breathing faster than usual or noisy breathing.
- Eating less and/or refusing certain foods.
- A change in thirst levels.
- Producing less stool or producing stool that looks different to normal.
Why is my bunny playing dead?
Playing dead is a rabbit’s last line of defense when in a state of abject terror. A rabbit pretends to be dead by lying on her back or side and not moving a muscle. A common reason for this is unwelcome handling. Rabbits like to keep all four paws on the ground.
How do you treat a sick rabbit at home?
While you seek treatment, try to keep your rabbit hydrated and warm. A syringe with water or soft foods (applesauce or baby food) can assist. Depending on the condition, your vet may prescribe prescription medication to help your rabbit’s condition.
What do rabbit positions mean?
The position of a rabbit’s ears says a lot about how it’s feeling. Ears that are almost touching mean a relaxed rabbit. Ears that are up and erect mean that a rabbit is alert to noises and sounds. If your rabbit’s ears are flattened, this means that it’s scared. Ears that are held back mean an angry rabbit.
Do rabbits flop when they are sick?
When a rabbit is extremely ill or dying, it will first stop eating and drinking. When its condition becomes critical, it may flop over onto its side. However, this won’t be a leisurely or comfortable “roll” onto its side. A sick rabbit will literally ‘flop’ or drop in a haphazard and sometimes dramatic fashion.
How can I comfort my rabbit in pain?
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS), such as aspirin, carprofen, flunixin meglumine, and meloxicam are able to decrease swelling and inflammation. The potency of different NSAIDS varies with each drug, dose and type of pain. Rabbits require high dosages of aspirin, but it can be a very effective analgesic.
How do I nurse my rabbit back to health?
Gather the wild baby rabbit in his blanket and feed him on his back, just as you would a human baby. Put the dropper to the baby rabbit’s mouth and allow him to suck the KMR at his own pace. Most baby rabbits will appreciate feedings twice a day. Once in the early morning and again late at night, just like in the wild.
Why is my bunny lying down and not eating?
The most common reason for a loss of appetite in rabbits is a gastrointestinal problem called ileus. Ileus occurs when normal peristalsis—the contractions in the intestines that push food through the gastrointestinal tract—decreases or stops.
Why is my bunny just laying around?
It means that your rabbit feels safe and comfortable in their environment. This is especially true if your rabbit is sprawled with their back legs stretched out or flopped over on their side. But, even a rabbit who chooses to settle into a loaf position is generally feeling quite comfortable and content.
Why is my bunny not moving but breathing?
If you have observed your rabbit is breathing, but not moving, it could be stress-related. We need to look at other symptoms of stress in rabbits, such as compulsive movements, overgrooming, scratching themselves raw or even self-mutilation.
What does a rabbit in shock look like?
A rabbit in shock may have a slow, faint pulse that is difficult to detect. Next lift up your rabbit’s lip to check her gum color. It should be a healthy pink. Bluish or pale gums indicate a severe circulatory problem.
What happens when a bunny dies?
When a rabbit passes away, you must remove their remains empathetically but legally. Animal body disposal laws vary from state to state. You may be permitted to put your rabbit in the garbage, but laws vary between states. If it’s legal, you can bury your rabbit in your yard.
How long does it take for a dead rabbit to go stiff?
The hotter the temperature, the faster the rate of decomposition. Be aware that rigor mortis, the stiffening of the joints, typically begins within 10 minutes to three hours after death and can last as long as 72 hours.
How long can a rabbit play dead for?
HOW LONG CAN RABBITS PLAY DEAD? Some rabbits play dead for a few seconds to ten minutes. If you know that the rabbit is scared and playing dead, you should create a favorable environment for your pet. You need to reassure that you are there and your pet is safe in your presence.
What do dead rabbits look like?
Dead rabbits can be recognized by their large, dark eyes, long ears, and mottled gray, brown, or white fur. Their bodies are typically found near their underground burrows or around fences and hedges.
How do I know if my rabbit has GI stasis?
Rabbits with GI stasis often look bloated, pass little to no stool, and have big, gas-filled stomachs and intestines on X-rays. Blood tests often reveal evidence of dehydration and abnormal electrolyte values. There may also be changes associated with other underlying diseases (such as kidney or liver disease).
Can a rabbit recover from paralysis?
Hindlimb paralysis can be a devastating condition. It is essential that your rabbit is treated quickly and kept as comfortable as possible. Some rabbits will recover fully with treatment. For those that are paralysed but pain free, a specially designed cart may allow them to move around comfortably.