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My spayed bunny can't get up after flopping. Is her IV site sore?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Small Animal | Rabbit | Female | spayed | 1 year and 1 month old | 4 lbs

Hi there. My bunny was spayed yesterday and today she has been eating lots and pooping and peeing regularly. Before she was spayed she loved to flop down on her side to lay down but now when she tries she cannot get herself back up and kind of freaks out and flops back and forth. Before she does it she sort of leans to one side (the side with the ear where they put the IV. They also tried to put the IV on her front paw on the same side but couldn’t find a vein so it’s quite raw)

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Mariya Gugel, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on June 9th, 2018

Thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! It is definitely a great decision to have Bubba spayed. It’s also great that she has been eating and having regular bowel movements. It maybe a bit awkward for her to lay down at first, especially if she has a cone. I recommend monitoring her incision site closely for any redness, swelling, or discharge as these can be signs of an infection. Unfortunately, rabbits have notoriously small veins, so it is difficult to place an IV catheter, but Bubba’s ear and paw should heal quickly. The hair regrowth may be patchy, so do not be alarmed. I hope all is well and am happy to answer any other questions you have!

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