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Why is my rabbit sick, not eating, has diarrhea, and is lethargic?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Small Animal | Rabbit | Female | unspayed

Hello. Our rabbit isn’t well at all. Isn’t eating or drinking much at all. He faeces is very loose and wet. She hardly moves at all.

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2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Rebeccah Wood

Licensed Veterinary Technician, Registered Laboratory Animal Technologist

Published on October 22nd, 2017

Hello there! I'm so sorry to hear that Flop is sick. Her condition sounds very serious, and I strongly suggest that you get her to a veterinarian immediately. Loose stool is abnormal for a rabbit, and can cause dehydration if it continues for more than a couple days - especially if she hasn't been drinking. Dehydration may be what is causing her to be lethargic, but her symptoms are relatively vague so I can't tell you from the information provided what is wrong with her. Parasites, bacterial or viral infection, foreign object ingestion, nutritional issues, and hairball impaction could all be possible causes, and without a veterinarian's help, a diagnosis will be difficult. At the vet's office, Flop will receive a full physical exam, and they will likely recommend x-rays and/or bloodwork to determine the cause of her illness. She will likely need fluid replacement therapy at the very least. Something you can do to detect dehydration at home is a turgor test. When an animal has good skin turgor, it is hydrated - skin that snaps back into place when picked up has good turgor. Pick up a small amount of skin behind Flop's shoulders, and drop it - if it stays standing up or is slow to return to normal, she is likely dehydrated and needs immediate help. Do not force her to drink liquids as she may aspirate it into her lungs. Good luck, and I hope that Flop gets well!

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on February 5th, 2020

    Thank you for contacting Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach with your question about Camilla. I agree, she doesn't look well and she sounds pretty sick. I think her symptoms are very serious and warrant an immediate vet visit. I strongly urge you to take her into a vet now. Best of luck.

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