Stasis of course. GI stasis to be more specific. There are lots of great sites with tons of information out there on how it happens, how to make a stasis care kit, what to do, etc. Let’s talk instead about what to look for in your bunny because that’s often one of the hardest things to detect and they can be well along in stasis before you realize what’s happening.
Here are the top three things that get my nose twitching (and having been through this with Blue about four times now I’m getting pretty good at this unfortunately):
- Be aware of food avoidance or disinterest. Let’s face it, bunnies are very food motivated (sort of like I am so I can totally relate) but if your bunny’s tummy is bothering him/her, they will definitely refuse their favorite treats or food or only take a bite and that’s it. As soon as that happens, all my bunny senses are on high alert and I’m pretty much ready to dial the vet.
- The eyes are a mirror to the soul (or, in this case, a bunny’s pain). You know your rabbit and you know when they are “bright eyed and bushy tailed” but a bunny in stasis (or suffering from any kind of ailment) will not look happy. Blue will be sort of squinty-eyed and just look sad/mad/peeved. Look back at your happy bun photos and you will be able to see the difference.
- Wriggling and writhing. When Blue can’t get comfy, stays mostly in one spot, and seems to be pressing his belly to the ground I know immediately there is an issue. He will lay down and get up. He will twist his body to the side and his nose will go like crazy. We all spend a lot of time looking at our buns (just admit it) so if their body posture suddenly seems off, it’s time to pay attention.
So, those are my top three stasis signs and since the first time this happened, I’ve been correct in my diagnosis (sadly) every single time. Don’t waste time if you aren’t sure and don’t try to be a detective for a day. Stasis moves fast so call the vet if you have any inkling that there is an issue. This is definitely a time to trust your gut instincts (pun intended)!
PS – what signs do you notice when your bunny is getting stasis?
GI stasis, pain, stasis
