Information on Assist Feeding Critical Care.

About Critical Care

Critical Care is a commonly used emergency recovery food for rabbits, but it must only be given under the direct guidance of your Exotic DVM.

Storage and Shelf Life

  • The product is a dry powder and should be stored in the freezer to prolong shelf life.

  • It can be used beyond the expiration date if unopened and properly stored.

  • Keep a supply on hand in case of emergencies.

Mixing Instructions

  • Mix the powder with warm water.

  • The consistency should be neither too thick nor too watery—you may need a few tries to get it right.

  • The exact amount and frequency (e.g., Sugarplum required 25 ml, 3 times daily) will be given by your Exotic DVM.

It is important that you should never Critical Care without the direction of your Exotic Rabbit Vet. You may see from social media or rabbit rescue group website to give critical care if your Rabbit is in GI Stasis until you can see a rabbit vet. If your rabbit is in GI Stasis only your Exotic Rabbit Vet during a physical exam and xrays can determine if your rabbit has a blockage in the GI Track. Critical Care if your rabbit has a blockage can make the condition worse.

You should also consult with your Exotic Rabbit Vet what should your rabbit’s temperature be before giving critical care.  There are cases where the rabbit’s temperature might be too low to digest the critical care. You can have your Exotic Rabbit Vet teach you how to take your rabbit’s temperature. You should also ask about how to provide heat support for your rabbit. Heat support is usually and electric blanket set to low and on 24/7.  It can be placed under their willow tent or similar. They should have the ability to hop on and off as needed.

Syringes

  • Preferred syringe: 35 ml catheter tip syringe — works best for smooth feeding.

  • Backup option: 1 ml syringe — useful for small portions but requires frequent refilling.

  • Ask your DVM for 2–3 extra 35 ml syringes, as they wear out with use.

A bag of Oxbow Critical Care Herbivore formula, a syringe filled with liquid, a small vial, and a small syringe, all placed on a cloth with nurse-themed print and text.
A close-up of a large hypodermic syringe lying on a nurse's uniform with the word 'NURSE' visible in red lettering.

Tips for Feeding

  • Rabbits may back up or resist during feeding, so it can get messy.

  • Be patient, gentle, and consistent.

  • Watch the demonstration video of Sugarplum being fed by her member of her Exotic DVM staff for guidance.