My rabbit is quiet and hiding but eating. Is this a sign of illness?

Thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Rabbits sometimes do this behavior when they are scared or as a form of play. If Louie is not acting like himself, I recommend having him seen by a vet as soon as possible. If he has resumed normal behavior, you can monitor him at home to make sure he continues eating, drinking, and having normal bowel movements. I recommend filming the behavior of you are able to in case Louie continues doing it and I would be happy to take a look.

Hi there, and thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! I am very glad to hear that Monty is still interested in food, as anorexia is usually one of the first signs of illness in a rabbit. Is it possible that he could have injured himself? If he'll let you, feel around on his body to see if he winces or tenses up when you touch him in a particular place. Watch his movement for any limping or dragging of paws or feet. I would also see if he'll let you look into his ears to check for any parasites or goo that might be making him uncomfortable and droopy-eared. If the above seems normal and the behavior continues, it's time to call the vet. This is doubly true if he stops eating or has a decreased appetite. After all the medical possibilities have been ruled out, you can safely talk to your vet about behavior modification. Any major changes in the home (construction, new people) could also potentially make him act more aloof, so keep that in mind as well. Good luck, and I hope Monty goes back to normal soon!

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!

It sounds like Twitch might be a little shocked over his environmental change. If he was used to having free range over things like the bed and is now prohibited, this can be somewhat stressful. As long as he is eating a sufficient amount of food an continuing to poop close to his normal amount, I would not really start thinking he is truly ill just yet.

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.

A rabbit that is not eating is a potential veterinary emergency. Gut stasis can develop if he doesn't start eating soon. Have him examined by your veterinarian or a vet experienced in treating rabbits to diagnose illness or injury. Causes include dental disease, pain, stress, hairballs, GI obstruction, fecal impaction or a poor diet. Offer as much timothy hay or similar grasses as Keo wants to eat. The high fiber keeps his system moving. You can purchase a supplemental diet from Oxbow specifically for herbivores at your veterinary clinic or pet store. This special diet may stimulate his appetite.

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Loss of appetite and lack of drinking can be observed with many conditions such as gastroenteritis, dietary indiscretion, kidney disease, pancreatitis, among many other possibilities. I recommend that you have Walter evaluated by a veterinarian as soon as possible for further assessment and treatment. They would be able to check for these possibilities and others depending on the findings on exam. Treatment would be based on findings. Good luck and have a great day! Hoping for a speedy recovery!