Mysterious death, accompanied by mysterious substance

[Becky]

So, I went out to check on my rabbits, and I found one of my nine-week-olds lying dead on the floor of the cage. More alarmingly, I found that its mouth was full of what looked like tiny off-white grains of rice. It hadn't had access to any food that looks like that. I feed my rabbits a mix of oats, wheat, and barley; they also have access to greens most days. Does anyone have any idea what the grainy stuff might be? Or the cause of death?

 

[Nyctra]

Sounds like fly eggs. :razz2:

 

[Miss M]

It's a common age for weaning-related deaths. I'd have to agree with Nyctra on the white things, unless you have more info... :x

 

[MaggieJ]

I saw what you posted in the Chatbox, Becky, about the second kit. This sounds very serious. You might be best to euthanize the one that is so ill. I'd bring the rest of them indoors, check them over carefully (especially both ends) for fly eggs, maggots etc. You will need to protect them indoors until you get to the root of the problem. <br /><br /> -- Fri May 22, 2015 7:23 pm -- <br /><br /> I've been thinking about your problem, Becky, and it occurs to me to wonder what in the way of greens you have been feeding? Also, do you feed hay? Some more information would help us help you.

 

[Miss M]

I saw what you posted in the Chatbox, Becky, about the second kit.

I am so glad you put that together! For anyone who might be able to get any clues from the second kit, this is what Becky posted in the chatbox at about 5pm Central:

Help! Nine week old rabbit was limp and squeaking, now limp and shaking. One of his littermates has already been found dead.

<br /><br /> -- Fri May 22, 2015 10:21 pm -- <br /><br />

I've been thinking about your problem, Becky, and it occurs to me to wonder what in the way of greens you have been feeding? Also, do you feed hay? Some more information would help us help you.

Yes, I am wondering if it might have taken in something toxic.