Rabbit Diarrhea

by Alison
(Australia)

I have used strawberry yoghurt in a syringe to feed young rabbits that have diarrhea,and it helps as they go back to normal droppings within a couple of days. I have also lost a couple but it seems to help put back the bacteria.

****Karen Sez****
Yes, I have heard of giving yoghurt for rabbit diarrhea. Have to think, though, that using plain (live culture) yoghurt should be far better than sugar-loaded flavored yoghurts, and here's why:

The diarrhea is caused by a 'bloom' of unhealthy bacteria due to excess carbs that reach the hind gut. On the one hand, yoghurt cultures do indeed offer friendly bacteria that can help correct the imbalance between healthy bacteria and disease bacteria. On the other hand, the high sugar content of flavored yoghurts greatly favors the very disease bacteria causing the problem. The bad guys may flourish, which is not good.

Depending on age of rabbit and symptoms, here are three additional options for handling rabbit diarrhea, assuming the bunny is not on death's door:
1) A healthy rabbit's cecotropes
2) Benebac
3) Withhold all feed except fiber forages such as straw or grass hay for 24-48 hours. (Or, give plain yoghurt as you withhold other feed except fiber forages.) (Always give plenty of water.)

Enterotoxemia can be life-threatening; I don't know a rabbit breeder that hasn't 'lost a couple.' But the above may help tip the scales in favor of restoring health.

Thanks for your information.