Rabbits are often presented for the sudden onset of anorexia, lack of defecation and different degrees of gas build-up in the gastrointestinal tract. Due to the anatomical inability of the rabbit to vomit, these conditions typically result in life-threatening gastric and enteric distension. In this presentation we will evaluate what are the options to determine whether a rabbit requires additional imaging and treatment. Although in some cases medical treatment can be sufficient, there are conditions when surgical removal of a mechanical obstruction in the intestinal tract or of inflammation of the appendix is required. We will reviiew the major surgical approaches to the intestinal tract in rabbits, including enterotomy, enterectomy and appendectomy, with a special focus on finding the correct timing for these interventions.