Rabbit GI Stasis: Emergency Vet Guide

Last updated: April 2026

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Quick Answer

Gastrointestinal stasis (GI stasis) is a common and life-threatening condition for rabbits, which can become fatal within hours without intervention [https://drsipvet.com/articles/gi-stasis].
Symptoms include reduced appetite, less fecal output, abdominal pain, and lethargy [https://vetmed.illinois.edu/2024/06/04/rabbit-gi-stasis/].
Many factors can cause GI stasis, like pain, stress, excess fur, high-sugar diets, dehydration, or eating inappropriate items [https://drsipvet.com/articles/gi-stasis].
Acting quickly and understanding the signs can save your rabbit’s life, as GI stasis can be deadly overnight [https://rabbits.world/en/2018/12/01/rabbits-emergency-transit-stop/].

When a rabbit suddenly stops eating and producing feces, it is often experiencing gastrointestinal stasis (GI stasis), also known as rabbit GI syndrome (RGIS) [https://drsipvet.com/articles/gi-stasis]. This is one of the most common medical problems rabbits face, and it can quickly become life-threatening. Without prompt action, a rabbit's body temperature can fall, and its internal organs will become stressed, potentially leading to death within hours [https://drsipvet.com/articles/gi-stasis]. Recognizing the symptoms, such as reduced appetite, decreased fecal output, abdominal discomfort, and lethargy, is crucial for early intervention [https://vetmed.illinois.edu/2024/06/04/rabbit-gi-stasis/]. Owners must act quickly, as learning to sense this condition and taking simple actions can save a rabbit's life [https://rabbits.world/en/2018/12/01/rabbits-emergency-transit-stop/].

What Is Rabbit GI Stasis?

Rabbit GI stasis, or rabbit gastrointestinal syndrome (RGIS), is a very common and serious medical problem where a rabbit's digestive system slows down or stops completely. This condition occurs when a rabbit suddenly stops eating and producing normal feces [https://drsipvet.com/articles/gi-stasis]. It is not just a minor upset stomach; it is a critical emergency that can lead to severe health issues and even death if not treated quickly. When a rabbit stops eating, its body temperature can start to drop, and its internal organs come under significant stress. This rapid decline means that without immediate help, the rabbit's life can be in danger within a matter of hours [https://drsipvet.com/articles/gi-stasis]. Understanding the nature of GI stasis and its potential severity is the first step in protecting your rabbit.

Understanding the Digestive Process in Rabbits

Rabbits have a unique digestive system designed to process a high-fiber diet. Their gut is constantly moving, a process called peristalsis, which pushes food through their digestive tract. This continuous movement is vital for their health. Unlike many other animals, rabbits cannot vomit, which means anything they ingest must pass through their entire system. Their diet, primarily hay, provides the necessary fiber to keep their gut moving efficiently. When this process slows down or stops, food, hair, and gas can build up, leading to painful blockages and the dangerous condition known as GI stasis. The lack of food intake also means the rabbit's energy reserves deplete rapidly, further stressing its system.

The Immediate Dangers of GI Stasis

The most immediate danger of GI stasis is the rapid deterioration of the rabbit's health. When the gut stops moving, bacteria that normally live harmlessly in the rabbit's digestive tract can overgrow. This overgrowth produces excessive gas, leading to extreme pain and bloating. The pain itself can worsen the stasis, creating a vicious cycle. As the rabbit experiences more pain, it becomes even less likely to eat, further slowing its gut. The body's temperature drops as energy intake ceases, and the entire system begins to shut down. This cascade of events can be fatal in a very short timeframe. The stress on internal organs, including the liver and kidneys, can lead to secondary complications, making recovery more challenging even with veterinary intervention.

Why GI Stasis is an Emergency

GI stasis is always an emergency because of how quickly a rabbit's condition can worsen. What might seem like a minor loss of appetite in the morning can become a life-threatening situation by evening. Rabbits are prey animals, and they are masters at hiding signs of illness until they are severely unwell. By the time an owner notices a rabbit has stopped eating and pooping, the condition is often already advanced. This makes rapid diagnosis and treatment essential. Delaying veterinary care, even for a few hours, can significantly reduce the chances of a successful recovery. The longer the gut is static, the more damage can occur, and the more difficult it becomes to restart the digestive process. Recognizing this urgency is key for any rabbit owner.

The Importance of Prompt Veterinary Care

Given the rapid progression and life-threatening nature of GI stasis, prompt veterinary care is non-negotiable. An exotic veterinarian can accurately diagnose the condition and rule out other serious issues, such as a complete blockage, which requires different and often more intensive treatment. They can provide medications to relieve pain, stimulate gut motility, and address dehydration. They can also offer supportive care, such as syringe feeding and warmth, which are critical for stabilizing the rabbit. Without professional intervention, the chances of a rabbit recovering from GI stasis are very low. Owners must understand that while some initial supportive measures can be taken at home, these are only temporary and should never replace an immediate visit to a qualified veterinarian. The information on emergency pages, combined with the owner's ability to act fast, is critical for survival [https://www.rmhrr.org/rabbit-emergency-information].

What Causes GI Stasis in Rabbits?

Gastrointestinal stasis in rabbits can stem from a variety of underlying issues, making it a complex condition to understand and prevent. Many factors can contribute to a GI stasis episode, and often, the exact cause is not immediately obvious [https://drsipvet.com/articles/gi-stasis]. However, common triggers include pain anywhere in the body, significant stress, an accumulation of excess fur in the digestive tract from grooming, a diet that is too high in sugars, dehydration, and the ingestion of inappropriate items. Each of these factors can disrupt the delicate balance of a rabbit's digestive system, leading to a slowdown or complete halt of gut motility. Identifying and addressing these potential causes is vital for both preventing future episodes and treating current ones effectively.

Pain as a Primary Trigger

Pain is one of the most significant contributors to GI stasis in rabbits. Any source of pain in the body can cause a rabbit to stop eating, which then initiates the cascade of events leading to stasis. This pain can come from various conditions, such as dental problems, urinary tract infections, arthritis, injuries, or even subtle internal discomfort. For example, overgrown teeth or dental spurs can make chewing extremely painful, causing the rabbit to refuse food. Similarly, bladder stones or infections can cause abdominal pain that leads to a loss of appetite. When a rabbit experiences pain, its natural instinct is often to stop moving and eating, which directly impacts gut motility. The body's response to pain can slow down the digestive system, making it more difficult for food to pass through. Addressing the source of pain is often a critical step in resolving GI stasis.

The Role of Stress in GI Stasis

Stress is another major trigger for GI stasis in rabbits. Rabbits are sensitive animals, and sudden changes in their environment or routine can cause significant stress. This can include moving to a new home, changes in cage mates, loud noises, the presence of predators (even if unseen), or even a change in food brand. When a rabbit is stressed, its body releases hormones that can slow down or shut down non-essential functions, including digestion. This physiological response is a survival mechanism, but it can be detrimental to a rabbit's health. A stressed rabbit may become lethargic, refuse to eat, and stop producing feces, all classic signs of GI stasis. Creating a stable, quiet, and predictable environment is crucial for reducing stress and preventing stress-induced GI stasis.

Excess Fur in the GI Tract

Excess fur in the gastrointestinal tract is a common issue, especially in long-haired breeds or during shedding seasons. Rabbits are meticulous groomers and naturally ingest some fur. Normally, this fur passes through their digestive system without problems due to a high-fiber diet and constant gut motility. However, if a rabbit's gut slows down for any reason, or if they ingest an unusually large amount of fur, it can accumulate in the stomach and intestines. This build-up of fur, often mixed with food particles, can form a "hairball" (trichobezoar) that obstructs the passage of food. While true blockages are less common than stasis, the presence of excess fur can certainly exacerbate a slowing gut. Regular grooming by owners, especially during shedding, can help reduce the amount of fur ingested. First Aid for Rabbit GI Stasis provides further context on this issue.

Impact of High-Sugar Diets

A diet high in sugars is a significant risk factor for GI stasis. Many commercial rabbit treats, fruits, carrots, and even some types of bread are loaded with sugar. While these might seem like harmless indulgences, they can disrupt the delicate balance of bacteria in a rabbit's gut. The beneficial fiber-digesting bacteria thrive on hay, while too much sugar can cause an overgrowth of harmful bacteria. This imbalance, known as dysbiosis, can lead to gas production, pain, and a slowdown of the digestive system. A proper rabbit diet should consist primarily of unlimited hay, a small amount of high-quality pellets, and a limited selection of fresh greens. Sugary items should be given very sparingly, if at all, to avoid contributing to GI issues.

Dehydration and Inappropriate Items

Dehydration can also contribute to GI stasis. If a rabbit is not drinking enough water, its digestive contents can become dry and compacted, making them harder to pass through the gut. This can slow down motility and lead to discomfort. Ensuring access to fresh water at all times, ideally through both a water bottle and a heavy ceramic bowl, is essential. Additionally, chewing or eating inappropriate items can cause GI stasis. Rabbits are curious and will often chew on things they shouldn't, such as carpet, plastic, houseplants, or electrical cords. Ingesting these non-food items can lead to physical obstructions or irritation in the digestive tract, triggering a stasis episode. Rabbit-proofing their environment is crucial for preventing such incidents.

How Do You Recognize GI Stasis Symptoms?

Recognizing the symptoms of GI stasis early is critical for a rabbit's survival, as the condition can worsen rapidly. Gastrointestinal stasis in rabbits is diagnosed based on a combination of clinical history and confirmation of several common clinical manifestations [https://vetmed.illinois.edu/2024/06/04/rabbit-gi-stasis/]. The primary signs to watch for include a reduced appetite, a significant decrease in fecal output, clear signs of abdominal discomfort, and a general state of lethargy. These symptoms often appear together and indicate that a rabbit's digestive system is in distress. Owners must be vigilant and observe their rabbit's daily habits closely to catch these subtle changes before they become severe.

Reduced Appetite

One of the first and most obvious signs of GI stasis is a reduced appetite or a complete refusal to eat. A healthy rabbit is almost always eating, especially hay. If your rabbit suddenly stops eating hay, pellets, or even its favorite treats, it is a major red flag. This can range from simply eating less than usual to not touching any food at all. Rabbits need a constant intake of fiber to keep their gut moving, so any interruption in eating can quickly lead to a further slowdown of the digestive system. Even if a rabbit seems interested in food but just picks at it or drops it, this should be a cause for concern. Monitoring your rabbit's food consumption daily is a simple yet effective way to detect early signs of a problem.

Decreased Fecal Output

A decrease in fecal output is another critical indicator of GI stasis. Healthy rabbits produce a large quantity of consistent, round, firm fecal pellets throughout the day. When GI stasis occurs, the production of these pellets will slow down significantly, or stop entirely. You might notice fewer pellets in the litter box, or the pellets might be smaller, misshapen, or strung together with hair. In some cases, there might be no fecal pellets at all. This lack of output means that food is not moving through the digestive tract as it should. The absence of normal feces, especially combined with a lack of appetite, is a strong signal that GI stasis is present and requires immediate attention. Rabbit GI Stasis Symptoms confirms these observations.

Abdominal Discomfort

Rabbits experiencing GI stasis often show clear signs of abdominal discomfort or pain. This can manifest in several ways. The rabbit might be hunched over, pressing its belly to the ground, or stretching out in unusual positions to try and relieve pressure. They might grind their teeth loudly, which is a sign of pain in rabbits. Their abdomen might feel tense or bloated to the touch due to gas buildup. Some rabbits may become restless, constantly shifting positions, while others might become completely withdrawn and unresponsive. Any change in posture, behavior, or apparent discomfort when touched around the belly area should be taken seriously. The pain from gas and a static gut can be excruciating for a rabbit and significantly contributes to their refusal to eat.

Lethargy and Changes in Behavior

Lethargy, or a general lack of energy, is a common symptom of GI stasis. A rabbit that is usually active and playful might become quiet, withdrawn, and unresponsive. They may sit in a hunched position, reluctant to move or interact. Their eyes might appear dull, and they might seem generally unwell. This lethargy is often accompanied by a disinterest in their surroundings and a lack of grooming, which can lead to a messy coat. A rabbit's body temperature may also start to fall when it stops eating, further contributing to its lethargic state. Any significant change in your rabbit's normal behavior, especially a sudden decrease in activity level, should prompt an immediate investigation for potential health issues, including GI stasis. Early detection of these behavioral changes can be life-saving.

Why Is Quick Action Crucial for Rabbit GI Stasis?

Quick action is not just recommended, but absolutely crucial when dealing with rabbit GI stasis because the condition can rapidly become fatal. GI stasis in rabbits can be deadly overnight [https://rabbits.world/en/2018/12/01/rabbits-emergency-transit-stop/]. This rapid progression means that what might seem like a mild issue in the morning can escalate into a life-threatening emergency within a few hours. Rabbits are prey animals and have evolved to hide signs of illness, often only showing symptoms when they are already very unwell. This makes the window for effective intervention incredibly narrow. Learning to recognize the symptoms and taking immediate, decisive actions can literally save your rabbit's life. Delaying treatment, even for a short period, can significantly reduce the chances of a successful recovery and lead to irreversible damage to their internal systems.

The Rapid Progression of the Condition

The primary reason for urgency is the speed at which GI stasis can progress. When a rabbit's gut stops moving, food and hair can accumulate, and gas can build up rapidly. This causes immense pain and discomfort, which in turn makes the rabbit even less likely to eat. Without food intake, the delicate balance of gut bacteria is disrupted, leading to an overgrowth of harmful bacteria and further gas production. This creates a dangerous cycle that quickly spirals out of control. Within hours, a rabbit can go from showing subtle signs to being in a critical state of shock, with severely compromised internal organ function. The body’s energy reserves are quickly depleted, and dehydration sets in, further complicating the condition. This rapid decline underscores the necessity of immediate intervention.

Consequences of Delayed Treatment

Delayed treatment for GI stasis can lead to severe and often irreversible consequences. The longer the gut remains static, the more likely it is for harmful toxins to build up in the system. The liver can become overwhelmed, leading to hepatic lipidosis (fatty liver disease), a serious condition that can be fatal. Prolonged pain and stress can also weaken the rabbit's immune system, making it more susceptible to secondary infections. If the gas buildup becomes extreme, it can put pressure on the diaphragm, making breathing difficult. In some cases, severe dehydration and electrolyte imbalances can lead to organ failure. Furthermore, a complete blockage, though less common than stasis, can be misdiagnosed if treatment is delayed, and requires immediate surgical intervention to save the rabbit's life. The information on emergency pages, combined with the owner's ability to act fast, is critical for survival [https://www.rmhrr.org/rabbit-emergency-information].

Why Rabbits Hide Their Illness

Rabbits are prey animals, and their instinct is to hide any signs of weakness or illness. In the wild, a sick rabbit is an easy target for predators. This ingrained behavior means that by the time a domestic rabbit shows obvious symptoms of GI stasis, the condition is often quite advanced. They will try to act normal for as long as possible, even when they are in significant pain or distress. This makes it challenging for owners to detect problems early. Therefore, owners must be highly observant of subtle changes in behavior, appetite, and fecal output. Relying on a rabbit to clearly signal its distress is a dangerous approach, as it often means the condition has already reached a critical stage. This innate behavior is precisely why quick action upon noticing any symptom is so vital.

The Life-Saving Role of Early Intervention

Early intervention significantly increases a rabbit's chances of survival and a full recovery. When GI stasis is caught in its initial stages, veterinary treatment is often more effective. Medications to relieve pain, stimulate gut motility, and rehydrate the rabbit can quickly reverse the progression of the disease. Supportive care, such as syringe feeding and warmth, can help stabilize the rabbit and provide the necessary energy to kickstart its digestive system. The quicker these treatments are administered, the less time the rabbit's body has to suffer the severe consequences of a static gut. Learning to sense the early signs and doing simple actions can save your rabbit’s life [https://rabbits.world/en/2018/12/01/rabbits-emergency-transit-stop/]. This proactive approach is the best defense against the deadly nature of GI stasis.

What Are the First Steps in a GI Stasis Emergency?

If you suspect your rabbit is suffering from GI stasis, taking immediate action is paramount. The very first and most crucial step is to contact your exotic veterinarian without delay. If your rabbit stops eating and pooping, it is an emergency that demands immediate professional attention. It is critical not to wait to see if your rabbit improves on its own, as GI stasis can become life-threatening within hours [https://drsipvet.com/articles/gi-stasis]. While waiting for veterinary advice or transport, you can administer any prescribed emergency medications you might have, but only under the guidance of your vet. These initial steps are vital for stabilizing your rabbit and preparing for professional medical care.

Contact Your Exotic Veterinarian Immediately

The most important first step is to call your veterinarian. Do not hesitate. Explain your rabbit's symptoms clearly: that it has stopped eating and pooping, and any other signs of discomfort or lethargy you have observed. Be prepared to take your rabbit to the clinic as soon as possible. Many general practice vets may not have sufficient experience with rabbits, so it is always best to seek an exotic veterinarian who specializes in their care. They will be best equipped to diagnose and treat GI stasis effectively. If your regular exotic vet is unavailable, inquire about emergency veterinary hospitals in your area that handle exotic pets. Having an emergency plan and knowing where to go beforehand can save precious time in a crisis.

Do Not Wait for Self-Improvement

A common mistake owners make is waiting to see if their rabbit will "perk up" or start eating on its own. This delay can be fatal. As previously mentioned, GI stasis progresses very quickly, and a rabbit's condition can deteriorate significantly in a matter of hours. Every minute counts. Waiting could mean the difference between a treatable condition and one that has advanced too far for recovery. Rabbits hide their pain, so by the time they show clear signs of being unwell, they are often in a critical state. Trust your instincts; if something feels wrong with your rabbit, it probably is. Immediate veterinary assessment is always the safest course of action.

Administer Prescribed Emergency Medications (If Available)

Some experienced rabbit owners might have an emergency kit prepared by their veterinarian, which could include pain medication (like meloxicam), gut motility drugs (like cisapride or metoclopramide), and critical care food. If your vet has previously prescribed these for emergency use and given you instructions, you may be able to administer them while you are on your way to the clinic or awaiting further instructions. However, it is crucial to only administer medications that have been specifically prescribed for your rabbit and under the direct guidance of your veterinarian during the current emergency. Never give over-the-counter human medications or medications prescribed for other animals, as these can be harmful or even deadly to rabbits. Always follow your vet's precise dosage and administration instructions. Emergency Tips for Rabbit GI Stasis emphasizes the importance of knowing what to do.

Provide Supportive Care While Awaiting Vet Visit

While you are preparing to go to the vet, there are a few supportive measures you can take to make your rabbit more comfortable. Keep your rabbit warm, as their body temperature can drop during GI stasis. A warm towel or a snuggled-up hot water bottle (wrapped in a towel to prevent burns) can help. Offer fresh water, perhaps in a shallow bowl, to encourage drinking, though many rabbits in stasis will refuse. You can also gently massage your rabbit's abdomen to potentially help stimulate gut movement and relieve some gas, but be very gentle and stop if your rabbit shows signs of increased pain. Do not force-feed your rabbit unless specifically instructed by your vet, as this can be dangerous if there is a complete obstruction. These are temporary measures only and do not replace professional veterinary care.

Can Adenovirus Affect Rabbits?

The current research and available information primarily focus on adenovirus infections in reptiles, not rabbits. Adenovirus infections have been recorded in a large number of reptile species, including snakes, dragons, skinks, geckos, chameleons, monitors, crocodiles, and tortoises [https://wildlifehealthaustralia.com.au/Portals/0/ResourceCentre/FactSheets/Reptiles/Adenovirus_Infection_In_Bearded_Dragons.pdf]. There is no information in the provided research to suggest that adenovirus affects rabbits or contributes to GI stasis in rabbits. This distinction is important for owners to understand, as viral infections in different species can have vastly different causes and presentations.

Adenovirus in Reptiles: A Detailed Look

Adenoviruses are medium-sized, non-enveloped viruses containing a double-stranded DNA genome [https://wildlifehealthaustralia.com.au/Portals/0/ResourceCentre/FactSheets/Reptiles/Adenovirus_Infection_In_Bearded_Dragons.pdf]. These viruses are generally regarded as being species-specific. For instance, Adenoviral hepatitis is a common cause of neonatal and juvenile mortality in captive bearded dragons (Pogona spp.) in the USA [https://wildlifehealthaustralia.com.au/Portals/0/ResourceCentre/FactSheets/Reptiles/Adenovirus_Infection_In_Bearded_Dragons.pdf]. The majority of infections in bearded dragons have been caused by Agamid adenovirus-1 (AgAdv-1), which has been confirmed through PCR testing [https://wildlifehealthaustralia.com.au/Portals/0/ResourceCentre/FactSheets/Reptiles/Adenovirus_Infection_In_Bearded_Dragons.pdf]. This specific virus has been found in various agamids of the Pogona genus, including the eastern bearded dragon (Pogona barbata), central bearded dragon (P. vitticeps), Downs bearded dragon (P. henrylawsoni), and western bearded dragon. AgAdv-1 has also been confirmed by PCR in the central netted dragon (Ctenophorus nuchalis), a species in the same subfamily as bearded dragons [https://wildlifehealthaustralia.com.au/Portals/0/ResourceCentre/FactSheets/Reptiles/Adenovirus_Infection_In_Bearded_Dragons.pdf].

Other Reptile Species Affected by Adenovirus

Beyond bearded dragons, adenovirus infections have been reported in a wide array of other reptile species. A similar virus was reported in a group of genetically related pygmy bearded dragons, Pogona henrylawsoni, in the USA. Adenoviral infection has also been reported in a savannah monitor (Varanus exanthematicus) that died without showing premonitory signs. In the USA, PCR studies also confirmed the presence of adenovirus in a blue-tongued skink (Tiliqua scincoides scincoides). The diverse range of affected species highlights the prevalence of adenovirus within the reptile community, with different strains or types often being species-specific. This wide distribution across various reptile families underscores the importance of understanding the specific pathogens that affect different exotic pet species.

Key Characteristics of Reptile Adenovirus

Reptile adenoviruses can cause a range of symptoms depending on the species and the specific strain of the virus. In bearded dragons, adenoviral hepatitis is a significant concern, leading to high mortality rates in young animals. These viruses are non-enveloped, meaning they are quite resistant to many disinfectants and can survive in the environment for extended periods, making biosecurity measures crucial in captive reptile collections. Diagnosis typically involves PCR testing to identify the specific viral DNA. While the presence of adenovirus has been confirmed in both captive and free-living bearded dragons in Australia, most disease associated with adenovirus has only been reported in captive bearded dragons, suggesting environmental factors or stress in captivity may play a role in disease manifestation.

No Evidence Linking Adenovirus to Rabbit GI Stasis

Based on the provided research, there is no scientific evidence or mention of adenovirus affecting rabbits or being a cause of rabbit GI stasis. The information exclusively details adenovirus infections in various reptile species. Therefore, when considering the causes of GI stasis in rabbits, owners should focus on known rabbit-specific triggers such as diet, pain, stress, dehydration, and fur ingestion, as outlined earlier in this guide. It is important not to confuse diseases or pathogens that affect one exotic animal species with those that affect another, as their biology and susceptibility to different viruses can vary greatly. The current scientific understanding, as presented in the sources, does not support a connection between adenovirus and rabbit health issues.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is GI stasis?

GI stasis, or gastrointestinal stasis, is a serious medical condition in rabbits where their digestive system slows down or stops moving entirely. This leads to a lack of appetite, reduced or absent fecal output, and abdominal discomfort. It is one of the most common medical problems for rabbits and can become life-threatening within hours if not treated [https://drsipvet.com/articles/gi-stasis].

How quickly can GI stasis become serious?

GI stasis can become serious very quickly. Without intervention, the condition can become life-threatening within hours, potentially deadly overnight [https://drsipvet.com/articles/gi-stasis], [https://rabbits.world/en/2018/12/01/rabbits-emergency-transit-stop/]. Rabbits are prey animals and often hide their symptoms until they are severely ill, making rapid action crucial.

What are the main symptoms of GI stasis in rabbits?

The main symptoms of GI stasis in rabbits include a reduced appetite, a significant decrease in fecal output, signs of abdominal discomfort (like hunching or teeth grinding), and lethargy [https://vetmed.illinois.edu/2024/06/04/rabbit-gi-stasis/]. Any combination of these signs warrants immediate veterinary attention.

What should I do immediately if I suspect GI stasis?

If you suspect GI stasis, contact your exotic veterinarian immediately. Do not wait to see if your rabbit improves on its own [https://drsipvet.com/articles/gi-stasis]. While waiting for your vet, you can try to keep your rabbit warm and gently massage its abdomen, but these are temporary measures and not a substitute for professional medical care.

Can diet prevent GI stasis?

Yes, a proper diet is crucial in preventing GI stasis. A diet high in fiber, primarily unlimited hay, helps keep a rabbit's gut moving correctly. Diets high in sugars, like excessive fruit or treats, can disrupt gut bacteria and increase the risk of stasis [https://drsipvet.com/articles/gi-stasis]. Ensuring constant access to fresh water is also vital for digestive health.