What Is the Most Common Rabbit Diseases ? A Guide for Australian Rabbit Owners

A gentle guide to the early signs, common triggers and quiet illnesses that rabbits often hide.

Understanding common rabbit diseases is essential for every Australian rabbit owner. Rabbits rarely reveal discomfort in obvious ways. They stay quiet, keep moving and continue acting “normal” even when something isn’t right. This instinct protects them in the wild – but for pet owners, it means early awareness of common rabbit diseases is essential. Among all rabbit illnesses, one condition appears more often than any other: gastrointestinal stasis, also known as gut stasis.

What Is the Most Common Rabbit Disease? Gut Stasis Explained

Gut stasis happens when a rabbit’s digestive system slows down or stops. Their gut is designed for constant movement, powered by a high-fibre diet and steady daily habits. When something interrupts that rhythm — stress, dental pain, dehydration or a sudden change in diet — the gut becomes sluggish. Gas builds up, appetite decreases and the cycle deepens.

This is why gut stasis is one of the most frequently diagnosed rabbit emergencies in Australia, and why early recognition can make such a difference.

Early Signs to Look For

The first signs of gut stasis are gentle shifts in your rabbit’s everyday patterns. Nothing dramatic –  but everything meaningful.

Look for:

• Eating less hay or refusing pellets
• Smaller, fewer or unusually shaped droppings
• A belly that feels tight or bloated
• A hunched posture or signs of discomfort
• A quieter, more withdrawn mood
• Teeth grinding, which can indicate pain

If your rabbit stops eating or stops producing normal droppings, consider it urgent and contact a rabbit-savvy vet immediately.

Other Common Rabbit Diseases Australian Owners Should Know

While gut stasis is the most common condition, several other health issues often appear alongside it. Understanding these helps you spot the early signs more easily.

1. Dental Disease

Rabbit teeth grow continuously. Without enough fibre or when teeth become misaligned, sharp points can form and make eating painful – often triggering gut stasis.

2. Parasites

Mites and fleas are common in Australia and can affect both indoor and outdoor rabbits. Itching, dandruff-like flakes or bald patches may be the first clues.

3. Respiratory Infections

Sneezing, watery eyes or noisy breathing can signal an infection that needs treatment.

4. Ear Infections

Lop-eared rabbits are especially prone. Head shaking, scratching or balance changes can be subtle but significant.

5. Urinary Problems

Thick, chalky urine, straining or strong odours can point to bladder sludge or infection.

When to See a Vet

Rabbits decline quietly and quickly. Seek veterinary care promptly if your rabbit:

• Stops eating
• Stops producing droppings
• Shows signs of pain
• Becomes unusually still or withdrawn

Fast action greatly improves recovery for gut stasis and many other illnesses.

The Small Things Matter Most

Caring for a rabbit begins with noticing the gentle, everyday patterns: how they eat, how they rest, how they leave their droppings on a good day. These small details become your guide. And often, your first clue.

Because while rabbits rarely speak loudly, they are always telling you something. Discover more rabbit-care guides at WeLoveMochi.