My rabbit is quiet after a new bunny. Is she sick or just sulking?

Hi, It sounds like Luna may just be tired from the increased activity earlier in the day. However, if her appetite and defecation decrease or her behavior is otherwise altered, then that could certainly be a sign of illness. I think it’s fine to wait and monitor her, as long as she keeps eating and defeating nornally. If in doubt, don’t hesitate to take her in to see her veterinarian. Good luck!

Hello, and thank you for your question. Rabbits do not always show obvious signs of pain or illness; oftentimes being more quiet or eating a bit less, or pooping less are the first signs that something is wrong. It does sound like her symptoms may be related to the issue she had in June (gut stasis). Other possibilities would be pain from another area such as her teeth or an injury, or focal or systemic infection. I would recommend having her checked out by the vet within the next 12 hours if she is still acting very quiet. In the meantime, keep her hay and pellets close by to encourage eating, as well as her water, and monitor her poop output closely. If her appetite or energy are worsening over the next few hours, if she is producing very little to no poop, I would get her to the vet sooner, as gut stasis in rabbits can quickly become an emergency. I hope this helps, and that Miss Cottontail feels better soon!

With this abrupt change in behavior I would be concerned that something is going on with Binky, like the early signs of an illness. Since he is still eating and drinking there is not much that can be done at this time. Ensure that Binky is still making stool. Also, watch him and his food intake very closely. If you notice his appetite or pooping decrease at all, take him to the vet as soon as possible. I hope this helps. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. Best of luck.

Poor Rica! And I am sorry the loss of your two rabbits. This can be a little stressful for them if they are really attached to their partner. Most rabbits adjust normally and continue to eat and continue their routine. I would watch Rica closely to ensure she is continuing to eat and act like herself. Also give her some extra TLC if she likes to be handled by humans. As far as knowing when they are not feeling well can be difficult. Some of the main things to look for is appetite, and activity level. You can also look to see whether or not there is any eye or nose discharge, sneezing/coughing, rapid breathing or diarrhea. Also, make sure there is plenty of room for two rabbits on their habitats. Small quarters can cause more stress. I hope this helps!

Thanks for reaching out about Snickers and including photos. It is probably recommended that a veterinary visit happen, as to ascertain health, especially as a new acquisition. It could be possible he is just getting used to his new home and slightly stressed. Monitor appetite, water intake, urination and defecation. If you continue to be concerned, a veterinary visit is recommended. Good luck.

Carefully check his teeth to see if they are overgrown or misaligned. If his front teeth are fine, have him examined by your veterinarian to check his cheek teeth. These teeth need regular trimming to prevent sharp points from developing. These points can cause discomfort and may affect appetite.

I am so sorry that you lost your other bunny. I can understand that this is hard for you and for Sugar as well. It is normal for one pet to grieve when another has passed away. This can be a very stressful time for your rabbit. The biggest concern is that she’s not eating well. A rabbit that stops eating is at risk for developing gastric stasis which can be very painful and possible life-threatening condition. Continue doing your best to encourage her to eat and drink. Offer her her favorite snacks and treats if that is all she will take for now. Try to interact with her and pay more attention to her than you usually do to help comfort her. If she continues to not want to eat you may want to look into getting a critical care diet for herbivores such as Oxbow Critical Care to help supplement her eating. If she goes for more than 24 hours without eating then you should take her to the vet to help prevent gastric stasis from occurring. Again, I am so sorry for your loss. I hope this helps. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. Best of luck.