cecal pellet problems

[Jazzysmom]

I have a wooled rabbit named Jasmine. Her fur isabout two inches long. I brush her several times a week. About once amonth she produces alot of cecal pellets which become matted on herbottom. I end up having to cut them out of her fur. It is a real mess.It does seem to be just about every 20-25 days that it happens. She hasrecently turned her nose up at her hay and refuses to eat it. She lovesto chew up card board boxes, still eats her pellets and a small bit ofcarrot every day so I don't think its a tooth problem. She is one yearold. Could it be a hormonal thing? Thanks for any advice or experiencewith this!
-Lorrie

 

[pamnock]

Could be hormonal. This is not anuncommon problem in some of the wooled breeds. During the"high risk" times, you can give her additional hay, cut back on pelletsand add rolled oats to the diet.

Although rabbits are induced ovulators, they are reported to have ahormonal cycle and there are certain points in the month when they aremore receptive.

I would take a fecal and cecal sample to thevet to rule out parasites.

Pam

 

[edwinf8936]

Two of mine have that problem. One maleone female. I cut most of their vegies out and limit theirtreats. They are doing better and have an occasinal problem,but it is easier to deal with now. You might make sure youare not giving them too many pellets.

ed

 

[Jazzysmom]

Thanks to both of you for the advice. Her breederalso recommended cutting back pellets. I already eliminated treats and'junk food' she seems to have a quirky tummy. She won't touch her hayanymore. Other than to toss it all over her house and make a huge messfor me to clean up! I just ordered hay from Oxford Meadows Farm inCanada. It is very expensive but if she will eat it I'll buy it! I'lllet everyone know how that works out.
I did read the fantastic post from Buck on hay. I'll reread that I think he mentioned a place to buy good hay.