Changes

The treatment is to lower the energy and protein content of the diet and to feed higher amounts of fibre (hay and straw).  Restrict pellets to 10-20 gram per kg (20 g in fat rabbits for fear they become acetonaemic).  You often have to be very strict with owners, as in the treatment of canine obesity. Antibiotics may have very little use in the treatment of these animals but concomitant infections (eg respiratory diseases) may have to be addressed, in which case I recommend oxytetracycline S/C q 72hrs (Engemycin 5%; Intervet). To stimulate the resumption of gut motility the use of cisapride (Prepulsid;Janssen Cilag) 6-8hrs is recommended but may be difficult to obtain so metoclopramide may be used instead - PO q12h. Ranitidine (PO q12h) is mentioned as a substitute for cisapride.

The treatment is to lower the energy and protein content of the diet and to feed higher amounts of fibre (hay and straw).  Restrict pellets to 10-20 gram per kg (20 g in fat rabbits for fear they become acetonaemic).  You often have to be very strict with owners, as in the treatment of canine obesity. Antibiotics may have very little use in the treatment of these animals but concomitant infections (eg respiratory diseases) may have to be addressed, in which case I recommend oxytetracycline S/C q 72hrs (Engemycin 5%; Intervet). To stimulate the resumption of gut motility the use of cisapride (Prepulsid;Janssen Cilag) 6-8hrs is recommended but may be difficult to obtain so metoclopramide may be used instead - PO q12h. Ranitidine (PO q12h) is mentioned as a substitute for cisapride.