How is a stomach impaction due to reduced GIT motility treated? First, it is important to have a
thorough physical examination performed by your veterinarian before embarking on any form of
treatment. Your veterinarian may suggest x-rays or other lab work. Since this is n impaction problem,
the goal is to rehydrate the rabbit both through the circulatory system and through the GIT. Fluids are
administered either under the skin or in a vein. Liquid high fiber food is given by syringe or nasoesophageal
tube two to three times daily. Ground rabbit pellets or powdered alfalfa powder can be mixed
with blenderized green leafy vegetables and an oral electrolyte solution for these feedings. Medications
to stimulate the GIT and analgesics may also be used. It is rarely necessary to use antibiotics and in fact
these might cause further disturbance to an already compromised GIT. Some people like to use laxatives,
and enzymes. I too, have used these products in the past. But have found that they really aren’t
necessary. I have great success in treating this condition without enzymes. It is important to remember
that enzymes of any kind (pineapples, papaya or pancreatic) DO NOT actually dissolve hair. The real
keys to treating this problem are: hydration of the stomach/cecal contents and getting the GIT moving
again.