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Just like cats, rabbits can develop problems with hairballs--the accumulation of hair in the stomach that can sometimes lead to intestinal problems. Cats can vomit up hairballs, but rabbits cannot vomit and the hair remains; resulting in a solid mass that overtime enlarges and will obstruct the gastrointestinal tract. Many factors can contribute to the formation of hairballs such as regular/excessive shedding (especially long-haired breeds such as Angoras), boredom, hormonal changes that cause eating of fur from self/cagemates, even some mineral deficiencies can cause the abnormal eating of fur.

Clinical signs of hairball obstruction range from mild to severe based upon the size of the hairball and the amount of obstruction of the digestive tract. Again, since rabbits do not vomit, vomiting is not a clinical sign seen in rabbits, unlike obstructions in dogs and cats. Signs of obstruction can be all or one of the following:

Anorexia (or refusal to eat pellets and will only eat treats, etc.)
Smaller fecal pellets being produced/no fecal pellets produced at all
Weakness
Weight Loss
Depression
Intestinal gas (can be felt by your veterinarian)
Diarrhea
Bloating
Dehydration
Hypothermia (decreased body temperature)
Shock (later stage)

Note: An obstructed rabbit may remain alert and active with no other clinical signs but anorexia in the initial stages of obstruction before the hair mass becomes large.

Diagnosis can be made from history, complete physical exam, ultrasound or contrast xrays, and bloodwork-especially in the severely debilitated animal.

Medical treatment in mild cases can consist of diet changes-the addition of fiber in the form of hay and fresh vegetables available at all times; the administration of oral cat laxatives, and giving fresh (not heat processes) pineapple juice for 2-3 consecutive days in a row to drink. Severe cases may involve surgical removal of the obstruction, intravenuous catheterization (if dehydration is present), and supportive treatment based on clinical/laboratory sign. Severely debilitated animals may succumb to death if left to go to long without treatment.

Always remember to provide enough fiber (hay and fresh vegetables) in your rabbit's diet--as fiber is necessary to help push hair through the digestive tract. Frequent brushing is also helpful in keeping the amount of hair ingested to a minimum.