Management of Acute Gastric Dilation in Rabbits

Rabbits that have sudden onset anorexia commonly present to veterinary practices with dilated stomachs. Postmortem examination or surgical investigation often identifies the underlying etiology of the gastric dilation as small intestinal obstruction. The condition is frequently fatal if left untreated, but protocols for diagnosis and treatment have not been established. This article attempts to clarify diagnosis of the condition by clinical and radiographical signs, as well as providing a guide to the management of these difficult cases. With appropriate decision making and treatment, the prognosis for small intestinal obstruction in rabbits can be dramatically improved.