Presentation Purpose: Gastric dilatation and volvulus (GDV) is a condition reported in species such as dogs and guinea pigs, but not rabbits. Clinical signs resemble severe gastrointestinal stasis or metabolic disease but can lead to a life-threatening accumulation of ingesta, gastric fluid, and gas, prompting emergency surgery. In guinea pigs, GDV carries a poor prognosis. This paper demonstrates a case of GDV in a rabbit that was confirmed during exploratory laparotomy and treated surgically. The patient survived discharge and continues to do well >12 months post-surgery. Protocol: A 2-year-old male-neutered New Zealand rabbit was presented with severe gastrointestinal signs. Prior diagnostics suggested liver disease with top differentials being liver lobe torsion, neoplasia, or infectious/inflammatory hepatopathy. However, this was not supported with advanced diagnostics, and no evidence of peritoneal effusion was found. With concerns for imminent shock and metabolic compromise, an exploratory laparotomy was performed. Notably, the pylorus was on the left side of the abdomen with mesenteric twisting. The stomach was de-rotated, a gastrotomy performed, and liver biopsies submitted. The patient was hospitalized with supportive care, then began to eat and pass regular feces prior to discharge. There was complete resolution of clinical signs at his follow-up. Practical Application: Previously, a GDV-like syndrome in rabbits has not been described, with associated prognoses being uncertain as well. This case demonstrates successful resolution of GDV in a rabbit, which may help elucidate treatment recommendations and prognostic outcomes for exotic species. More research is needed to understand the etiology of GDV in rabbits.
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