Gastrointestinal stasis and obstruction in domestic rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus): review

Abstract

With the increasing number of rabbit’s pets, the so called non-conventional type, it is extremely important that all veterinary doctors are aware of its specific illness, and also its environmental and feeding management. Gastrointestinal stasis and obstruction are some of its main diseases, characterized by reduction or absence of fecal pellets, anorexic, abdominal pain, palpation discomfort, all considered emergencies to be dealt with utmost priority and quickness, both in differential diagnosis and therapy, as most of the clinical signals are similar, but have different approaches, which proves to be a challenge for the veterinary doctor with its complex therapy and slow results. This revision objective was to approach the gastrointestinal stasis and obstruction theme in domestic rabbits.