The short answer is – YES! Rabbits do fart. You likely won’t hear your bunny fart and that’s completely fine, as long as they’re not getting trapped wind.
Rabbits are herbivores, which means that they feed on plants.They have a monogastric digestive system that is similar to ours.
Rabbits have enlarged bowels, which gives the plant materials more time to digest. However, rabbits usually have a low-fiber diet, which is high in carbohydrates.
So, rabbits not only fart – but they have to do it in order to avoid a gas build-up, which can be deadly to them if not treated on time.
Rabbit farts are inaudible and have no smell most of the time, but you should notice them sometimes.
If your rabbit has a change in their diet, you may hear or smell farts more often
If you notice that your bunny doesn’t fart at all, there might a problem with its digestive system.
A lack of farts can cause a gas build-up, which can be extremely painful for your bunny and might escalate very quickly into something known as stomach bloat.
So, what if you've never heard your rabbit fart?
If your bunny acts normal, you probably shouldn’t worry.
But if you notice some changes in its behavior, loud noises coming from its stomach, and a low body temperature, then it might be GI Stasis!
There are several ways to treat rabbit gas.
First, you have to keep your bunny warm with blankets, hot water bottles, or heating pads. After that, you can try gently massaging its stomach.
Much like ourselves, rabbits are more likely to pass gas if you get them moving.
Encouraging movement by giving their bottoms a little nudge should help with passing gas!
There are also over the counter medications you can try but it's best to check with your vet first!
If your rabbit appears lethargic, in pain, or is grunting, it may be suffering from GI Stasis which is a critical condition and should be fixed by calling your vet urgently.
What food causes rabbit gas?
Broccoli, cabbage, carrots & sprouts (provide small amounts only!)
Chocolates & Sugar treats (these are poisonous to a rabbit’s digestive system)
Eating too fast, stress, and dehydration can also cause gas for your bunny!
Can rabbits die from gas?
Yes, they can! If GI Stasis appears, it's life threatening so get your bunny to the vet.
Regular rabbit gas, on the other hand, is nothing to panic about!