GorbyJobRabbits
Well-Known Member
A family friend just got a rabbit through rescue that is VERY underweight. Is there any way to help him quickly but safely gain weight back.
Ways for bun to gain weight quickly/healthily
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ra7751
Well-Known Member
Weight gainor loss should be a gradual deal. Many rescues that come in underweight have underlying health problems.....most of the time intestinal parasites that need to be dealt with. And we never offer lots of food to a starving animal. I would start ramping up the calories slowly and offer lots of hay. Nothing good happens fast. I do not offer such old school foods as oats or sunflower seeds. Keep things as basic as possible. The use of a probiotic such as Bene Bac will be useful in stabilizing the pH in the gut for the population of beneficial bacteria. Maintain hydration.
Randy
Randy
naturestee
Well-Known Member
:yeahthat:
If the reason for his low weight isn't known, make sure he's checked for parasites. I just work them up to what they should be eating (I feed unlimited hay, small amount of pellets, and a variety of veggies), maybe add slightly more, then reassess after a few weeks.
It seems counter intuitive, but exercise also helps. Start with short exercise times, especially if he seems to get tired. A lot of those skinny rescue buns have no muscles to speak of which just makes them feel more bony. Allowing them to exercise helps them build muscle instead of fat and will increase their overall health.
If the reason for his low weight isn't known, make sure he's checked for parasites. I just work them up to what they should be eating (I feed unlimited hay, small amount of pellets, and a variety of veggies), maybe add slightly more, then reassess after a few weeks.
It seems counter intuitive, but exercise also helps. Start with short exercise times, especially if he seems to get tired. A lot of those skinny rescue buns have no muscles to speak of which just makes them feel more bony. Allowing them to exercise helps them build muscle instead of fat and will increase their overall health.
