Bloat is a condition where the stomach becomes stretched by excessive gas content.  The gas is caused by the bacteria in a rabbit's stomach multiplying excessively as a result of incorrect feeding. 

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SYMPTOMS

• hard, swollen 'balloon like' stomach

• trying to stretch out a lot

• stopped pooing

• shortness of breath

• restlessness

 

CAUSES

Bloat can be caused by rabbits eating too many greens, spoiled food, mouldy hay a lack of fibre in their diet, or stress. This causes an imbalance in the bacteria in the intestines and their gut stops working, resulting in a build up of gas in the stomach.

 

TREATMENT

Seek advice from your vet asap.

Bloat can be fatal within hours, it is extremely painful.

 

CARE/PREVENTION
You can reduce the likelyhood of your rabbit getting bloat by ensuring your rabbit eats fresh hay daily, this helps to keep their gut working and prevent the build-up of gas.

 

Avoid feeding your rabbit wet green food and keep to a regular feeding pattern with lots of hay. 

Never feed your bunny grass cuttings from lawn mowers.