Rabbit died suddenly- has anyone experienced this?

[Jas2487]

Hello All,
My 3 year old boy Smudge died very suddenly last night. He had not been in poor health and has been eating and drinking as normal. He collapsed last night and was gone within about 15 minutes. Has anyone experienced this and any idea how he could go so suddenly?
He was a splayed rabbit but other than that has always been in good health.
Really wondering how this could happen so suddenly without any warning signs.

 

[bunnylove2024]

Had he been eating and drinking properly?

 

[Jas2487]

Had he been eating and drinking properly?

Yes, he was completely fine.. that’s why it’s been such a shock

 

[bunnylove2024]

I am sorry, one of my rabbits developed a splay over night but then he lasted for 4 days, the vet still doesn't know what happened and I don't have a clue. How long has your rabbit had a splay.

 

[Nancy McClelland]

We had one go like that too. Found out he had an enlarged heart and it was his time--only 3 years old.

 

[Niomi]

That happened to a cat I used to have, but he didn't have a splay. I was so upset that had an autopsy done. I found out that he was born with a heart defect and he had a heart attack.

So sorry for your loss.

 

[bunnylove2024]

So mabey he had a heart defect and it just stopped?

 

[Jas2487]

thank you everyone for taking the time to reply- I really appreciate it at this time..
He was splay since birth but had always managed as he has 2 brothers that really took care of him.
After your comments i’m starting to guess it was something to do with his heart..
will the 2 brothers be ok without him? They were very attached..

 

[Mariam+Theo]

I'm so sorry! They should be okay if you give them time to mourn. I would give them a blanket or toy of his that his smell is still on so that they can say their goodbyes.
Btw-Welcome to the forum! I'm sorry you are joining for this reason.

 

[Jas2487]

I'm so sorry! They should be okay if you give them time to mourn. I would give them a blanket or toy of his that his smell is still on so that they can say their goodbyes.
Btw-Welcome to the forum! I'm sorry you are joining for this reason.

Thank you so so much for your kind words.. thats wonderful advice, they have his blanket now so hoping that helps..

 

[bunnylove2024]

It will be tough for a bit, I know, but it will get better.

 

[Jas2487]

It will be tough for a bit, I know, but it will get better.

Thank you so much- means alot

 

[Mariam+Theo]

I have realized that people never "get over" the loss of an animal or family member, you just forget how much you loved them.

 

[bunnylove2024]

Thank you so much- means alot

Of course! I still miss my boy and I thought I would never get over it because I thought it was my fault he had gotten the splay... but its better now, and it will get better for you too!

 

[bunnylove2024]

I have realized that people never "get over" the loss of an animal or family member, you just forget how much you loved them.

I don't think you forget how much you love them I just think you begin to accept it.

 

[TheBuns]

I’m sorry for you lost 3 years that’s young.

 

[bunnylove2024]

It is really young...

 

[Jas2487]

Thank you everybody.. taking it one day at a time

 

[bunnylove2024]

Thank you everybody.. taking it one day at a time

That is the best way to do it! He had a good life with you!

 

[Jas2487]

Hello All,

I can’t believe I’m writing this. Last night, just 2 nights after Smudge passed away, his brother Woody has gone.. it was in exactly the same way, collapsed and a few moments later was gone. I am absolutely heartbroken and I have no idea how this could have happened. I’ve researched online and found something called RHD. Could it possiblly be this? I am so worried about the last brother that’s been left behind- firstly if the same thing is going to happen to him and also how he will manage without his brothers