Loose stool in new rabbits

[leaveittoweaver]

 I took in two bunnies from a coworker at the pet store I work at yesterday, both spayed and very loving. Being fed oxbow pellets and good quality timothy hay. One and or both of them(I haven’t actually seen it happen) has been having diahhrea. It is not completely watery, just really mushy and in a puddle shape. I think it’s Ginger that’s having it as it’s mostly all on her bottom, I’m going to try one of the baby cornstarch powder dry baths on her to try to get it off as it’s really disgusting.

Do you think the diarrhea was just due to the stress of being in a new situation? I feel like that’s all it is but I wanted to ask and get some opinions first. I’m feeding the exact same diet the previous owner was feeding so I figure it’s stress or a serious medical issue. Thoughts?

Thanks!

[Sarita]

I would have the vet do a fecal test – it is extremely possible they have coccidia coming from a pet store and it is treatable if you get them treatment right away.

[leaveittoweaver]

 Oh I’m sorry, I didn’t make that clear. They aren’t actually from a pet store. I work at a pet store and the girl I work with had these rabbits at her house for a year and didn’t have the time anymore so I took them in. They weren’t actually in the store.

[Sarita]

Got it – I would ask your co-worker if they had this problem at her home and if not, then I would think the same as you, but if it does continue, then it could be something else. I would also ask her if she has ever taken them to a vet? If not, it’s always a good idea to get them to a vet for an initial wellness check.

Is that one of them in your avatar? Cute little rabbit.

[leaveittoweaver]

I’ll give her a call now since she should still be at work. I’m assuming she’s brought the to the vet at one point or another, as she works a second job as a veterinary receptionist but I’ll ask just to make sure.

Yes that’s Ginger I think she’s the one with the poo problem since her butt is a stinky mess! And thank you, they’re really adorable. They’re both lionheads.

[BinkyBunny]

What did she say?

[leaveittoweaver]

Could not get a hold of her, and she doesn’t work Sundays so I’ll give her a call tomorrow. The runny poo has stopped though so that’s a good sign?

[BearMom]

One of the big things to worry about with loose stool like you describe is dehydration, which can become a really big problem, really quick. Even if they are drinking, they often cant keep up with the amount they are losing.

I think its a good sign that it stopped, but I would get them to a rabbit vet on Monday, and definately get a fecal test. Some rabbits can have coccidia all their lives and not develop symptoms until something stressful happens. If thats the case, it would be worth it to get it treated so that it doesn’t flare up again.

Maybe the previous owner can get you in where she works, assuming they have a good rabbit vet.

Good luck with your new babies!

[Author]

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