Rabbit Poo & Cecotropes: What's Normal?

Rabbit Poo - What's Normal & What's Not?

Your rabbit’s droppings are one of the easiest ways to keep track of their digestive health. Rabbits have very sensitive guts, and changes in their poops or cecotropes can be an early sign something is wrong. Checking your rabbit’s droppings daily helps you spot issues quickly.

👍 What's Normal for Rabbit Poo

🟤 Fecal Pellets

Healthy rabbit poop consists of numerous round, dry pellets that are uniform in size and shape — typically about the size of a pea. They should be dry, firm, and odourless. A healthy rabbit can produce 200–300 pellets per day due to their high‑fibre diet.

🍇 Cecotropes (Soft Droppings)

Rabbits also produce cecotropes — soft, grape‑like clusters that are nutrient‑rich and meant to be eaten directly from the anus. This is a completely normal and healthy behaviour. You may rarely see these, as rabbits usually eat them straight away.

👎 What's Not Normal for Rabbit Poo

Diarrhea: Soft, watery, or mushy poos are a sign of diarrhea. This can be caused by dietary issues, infections, or parasites. Diarrhea is serious and requires immediate veterinary attention.

Dry, Hard or Clumpy (pictured): If the poos are very dry and hard, your rabbit might be dehydrated or not consuming enough fibre. Ensure they have access to fresh water and plenty of hay. Older rabbits can also display these types of poos.

Odd Shapes or Sizes: Irregular, misshapen, or very small poos can indicate digestive issues, stress, or other health problems.

Color Changes: A sudden change in color, such as very light or greenish poos, can indicate dietary issues or illnesses. Red or black poos might indicate blood, which is a medical emergency.

Excess Mucus: If the poos are coated in mucus, this can be a sign of digestive distress or infection.

Unusual Smell: While rabbit poos have a mild odour, an unusually strong or foul smell can indicate a health issue.

Gut health is crucial for your rabbit's wellbeing. If you notice any abnormal poos or other signs of illness, such as lethargy, lack of appetite, or weight loss in your rabbit, consult your nearest exotics vet immediately!

Find your nearest exotics vet here.