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Calcium Sludge in Rabbits

Recently, we have spoken to owners on the Burns helpline concerned that their rabbit has vomited because they have found thick white liquid in the hutch or cage.

Rabbits cannot vomit; this white sludge is actually urine which contains excess calcium. If your rabbit is suffering from this problem then veterinary attention is needed. Urinary problems can be very painful and as rabbits do not show pain in a vocal way you should be watching for signs such as lethargy, lack of appetite and changes in posture such as your rabbit sitting in a hunched position. If your rabbit is litter trained a loss of training may occur and you may also see blood in the urine or your rabbit may strain to urinate.

After veterinary attention the diet should be carefully and gradually modified to avoid this condition from reoccurring. A natural diet of hay, vegetables and herbs should be fed and high calcium dry pelleted foods cut down or cut out (if recommended by the vet).

Quantities of vegetables high in calcium such as kale, watercress, spinach and broccoli should be reduced. Alfalfa and other legume hay should be substituted for lower calcium grass hay such as green oat, meadow or timothy hay. Dry pelleted food should be reduced and replaced with high fibre herbs and plenty of grass hay. Overweight rabbits are more likely to suffer from these conditions so keeping your rabbit at a healthy weight is important.

Download the Natural Health Guide for Rabbits (.pdf)

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