Why is My Pet Rabbit Suddenly Lethargic and Refusing to Eat?

Dear VetBabble,

I recently experienced a situation with my pet rabbit, who appeared perfectly fine one day but then seemed unusually still and didn’t want to move or eat by the early morning. I wasn’t sure what was wrong with her, and I wondered if she had injured herself during the night. She was clearly in distress, but I didn’t know enough to determine the cause. Could this be a disease, or could she have eaten something harmful? What should I do in situations like this?

Understanding Your Rabbit’s Behavior

As a concerned pet owner, it’s essential to understand our pets’ behaviors and identify when they’re in distress. Rabbits, in particular, are known for their timid nature and may display sudden changes in behavior, such as refusing food or staying unusually still, as an indication that something isn’t right.

One of the primary concerns when your rabbit exhibits such behaviors is determining the cause. It could be related to a disease, an injury, or even something they ingested. Since rabbits are quite fragile and vulnerable, it’s crucial to know the essential aspects of their care. Our Rabbit Care Guide covers everything you need to know to keep your bunny healthy and happy.

Possible Causes of Distress in Rabbits

Here are some potential reasons that could explain your rabbit’s sudden change in behavior:

1. Ingesting foreign objects: Like other pets, rabbits can sometimes eat things that they shouldn’t. This can result in your rabbit experiencing pain or discomfort. For more information on this issue, check out our article on Foreign Bodies: I Think My Pet Ate Something It Shouldn’t!
2. Injuries: Rabbits are quite agile and can sometimes hurt themselves without their owners realizing it. Your rabbit could have injured herself during the night and now may be experiencing pain or discomfort. It’s essential to have her checked by a vet to identify any possible injuries.
3. Illness: Although the quick onset and severity of your rabbit’s behavior may suggest that her condition is not due to an illness, it’s still essential to consider this possibility. Rabbits, like all animals, can suffer from various ailments that can cause them to become lethargic or lose interest in food.

What to Do if Your Rabbit Is in Distress

When our pets are in distress, it’s crucial to act swiftly to get them the help they need. Here are some steps to follow if you find your rabbit unwell:

1. Contact your vet: The moment you notice any abnormal behavior in your pet, reach out to your vet to discuss your concerns. They will provide guidance on whether you should bring your rabbit in for an examination or if there are any at-home care recommendations to follow.
2. Emergency care: If your regular vet is unavailable, it’s essential to seek help from an emergency vet clinic. Your rabbit’s health could be at risk, and prompt attention is crucial to ensuring their well-being and recovery.
3. Monitor your rabbit closely: As you wait for your appointment or instructions from your vet, keep a close eye on your rabbit. Observe their behavior, food and water intake, and any other symptoms that may help your vet determine the cause of your rabbit’s distress.

In conclusion, any sudden or unexplained changes in your rabbit’s behavior, such as refusing food or staying unusually still, warrant immediate attention from a veterinarian. Whether it’s a potential injury, illness, or ingestion of foreign objects, it’s crucial to act quickly to ensure your rabbit’s health and well-being.

For more information on related topics, check out our articles on Is My Puppy Tired or Lethargic? and Vomiting in Dogs: Causes, Treatment & When to Worry.