How do I get a rabbit to pass a hairball?

[Alder]

I woke up this morning to our rabbit not moving from one spot for hours, even when I put food out for her. and I think she has a hairball. She is shedding crazily right now and it’s everywhere, no matter if I vacuum, brush her or anything. Please tell me!

 

[Mileybun]

She should really see a vet ASAP. There is no guarantee it is a hairball, there's so many other things that could be going on, and if she isn't eating she is at risk of gut stasis. It sounds like she is in discomfort.

Even if it is a hairball, she won't be able to pass it. Rabbits can't be sick and it's extremely unlikely she will be able to poop it out.

Please get her to the vet ASAP! Good luck!

 

[Preitler]

My vet treats this with about 1ml of paraffin oil, additionally to the ather stasis treatment I give like making the bunny move, belly massages, giving water and simethicone.

Oil is somewhat controversial because of the risk of aspiration and lung damage, so it's not something I would recommend to others without warning.

Anyway, best see a vet asap. But you can start by giving belly massages, making her hop etc.

 

[JBun]

I try the simethicone baby gas drops, 3 doses an hour apart, as mentioned in the HRS article, unless my rabbit is showing signs of true bloat, true diarrhea, or any other emergency condition, then it's getting bun to the vet immediately.

Veterinary emergencies

Veterinary emergencies. What to look for, preparing for a visit to an emergency center, and links for rabbits.

wabbitwiki.com

But if it's not an immediate emergency, I'll give the baby gas drops, maybe some gentle belly massage, and also very important to keep bun warm as they commonly get chilled when feeling sick (I check by feeling their ears).

I wouldn't give anything else, because it's not recommended when there's any chance of there being a complete digestive blockage. And like mentioned, if there's any chance of bloat or you're unsure, don't give anything as it can increase stomach pressure and risk serious complications. But get your rabbit to the vet immediately. True bloat is very dangerous and needs prompt veterinary care for any chance of saving the rabbit.

If I've decided it's safe to give the baby gas drops and given the 3 doses, or if buns condition worsens, and/or if it's been more than 12-24 hours since bun last ate, or if any of the above emergency conditions occur, it's time to get bun to a knowledgeable rabbit vet. If in doubt or having any concerns about a rabbit having medical issues, it's always best to first consult with a knowledgeable rabbit vet.

Gastrointestinal Stasis: The Silent Killer | House Rabbit Society

rabbit.org

Gastrointestinal stasis

wabbitwiki.com

Choosing a rabbit veterinarian

wabbitwiki.com

Rabbit Vets Near Me | House Rabbit Society

rabbit.org

 

[jacobyjl]

I give my rabbit digestive treats daily when he starts shedding now. Last year, he had emergency surgery due to a large hairball that he couldn't pass and I'm so glad he is still here with me today!