What Are the Causes of Lowered Body Temperature in Rabbits?

Closely observing your pet rabbit can help you discover various ailments in a timely manner. A rabbit's normal body temperature ranges from 101 to 103 degrees Fahrenheit. If your pet companion has a lowered body temperature it can potentially be life-threatening. Recognizing the signs that indicate a medical condition and stabilizing your rabbit's body temperature can help you nurse him back to health.

  1. Lowered Body Temperature Due to Flatulence

    • Flatulence can cause your rabbit's body temperature to fall below 100 degrees Fahrenheit. Symptoms can include gurgling sounds from your rabbit's stomach, a decrease in appetite, and your pet companion may appear lethargic and sit in a hunched up position. Wrap warm water bottles in towels and place them against your rabbit's body to restore his temperature. To relieve the symptoms, use pediatric simethicone and pain medication according to your veterinarian's instructions.

    Lowered Body Temperature Due to Cold Weather

    • An outdoor rabbit that's exposed to extreme winter weather can suffer from a drop in body temperature if he doesn't have sufficient shelter from the elements. When his body temperature drops below 100 degrees Fahrenheit, he's unable to produce enough internal heat to restore it. His breathing and heart beat slow down. This condition, also referred to as hypothermia, can be reversed by gradually re-warming your rabbit. Bring him indoors so he slowly warms up. Place insulated warm water bottles next to his body to keep him warm while you seek medical care.

    Lowered Body Temperature Due to Gastrointestinal Stasis

    • Gastrointestinal stasis is a condition in which your rabbit's gastrointestinal tract shuts down. The impaired motility triggers food, mucus and hair to accumulate. Gastrointestinal stasis can be caused by various factors including stress, dehydration, a diet that lacks fiber and an intestinal blockage. Symptoms include anorexia, a drop in temperature, lethargy and a reduction of fecal production. Keep your bunny warm with towel-wrapped warm water bottles and tempt him with leafy, green vegetables, hay and water. Have your veterinarian examine your rabbit. He may recommend subcutaneous fluids and motility drugs.

    Lowered Body Temperature Due to a Parasite

    • When a parasite is transmitted to your rabbit it can result in a low body temperature, diarrhea, dehydration, weight loss and lethargy. An internal parasite, such as Giardia duodenalis, can be transmitted to your rabbit when he ingests cysts from cat or dog fecal matter. To combat this parasite, which is located in the small intestine, your rabbit may need fluids, nutritional supplements, heat, antibiotics and parasiticides.