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When a rabbit eats its hemp mat, the behavior may seem harmless, even amusing. Yet this simple action hides real dangers to its health, particularly at the digestive level. Hemp is a natural material, often used for its absorbent properties and comfort. But that does not mean it is safe when ingested. Many owners, often poorly informed, discover this problem when it is already too late. This guide helps you understand why a rabbit eats its hemp mat, recognize the associated risks, adopt the right reflexes, and put in place long-term solutions to protect your companion’s health.

The digestive dangers of a hemp mat ingested by a rabbit

The rabbit’s digestive system is designed for the continuous passage of fiber-rich foods. It does not tolerate indigestible materials, especially when they are dry, thick, and non-soluble like hemp fibers. These fibers can clump together in the stomach or intestines and form a blockage, causing an intestinal obstruction. Unlike other animals, rabbits cannot vomit. A complete blockage of the digestive tract is therefore often fatal within 24 hours if it is not detected in time.

Beyond obstruction, regular ingestion of small amounts can lead to digestive stasis: transit slows down, the animal stops eating, stools decrease, and the condition progresses toward dehydration, abdominal pain, and an imbalance of the microbiota. This type of disorder requires urgent veterinary treatment, often involving hospitalization and prokinetic medications. Associated costs often exceed 400 to 700 euros, with no guarantee of success if intervention is delayed.

Why does a rabbit eat its hemp mat?

Several causes can explain this behavior. It is rarely random. The ingestion of non-food materials by a rabbit is often the symptom of a deeper imbalance.

Boredom and lack of stimulation push the rabbit to chew its mat

The rabbit is a herbivorous gnawer. It naturally spends more than 6 to 8 hours a day chewing: hay, branches, roots, grass. In captivity, if it lacks sufficient stimulation (outings, chew toys, interactions), it tries to satisfy this vital need by chewing whatever is available: its mat. The fibrous, plant-based texture of hemp attracts its attention.

This behavior can be intensified in rabbits kept alone, confined too long, or living in an environment lacking diversity. It is a fundamental ethological need, not a whim.

A diet low in hay drives the rabbit to look for fiber elsewhere

A rabbit’s diet must consist of 70% high-quality hay, rich in long fibers. Hay fibers stimulate intestinal peristalsis, clean the digestive tract, and prevent stasis. When a rabbit does not have access to enough hay (or eats too little of it), it instinctively seeks other sources of fiber: cardboard, fabrics, plants… or the hemp mat. Unfortunately, these fibers are not digestible.

Stress or pain: two common causes in a rabbit that eats its mat

A change in environment, the arrival of a new animal, a move, or even internal pain can prompt a rabbit to chew compulsively. This becomes a displacement behavior, comparable to a human biting their nails. Some rabbits express their distress by destroying whatever is within reach. In this case, the mat becomes an outlet.

Some rabbits eat hemp simply because they like the texture

Not all rabbits relate to objects in the same way. Some are destructive, others not at all. Hemp has a plant-like smell and a crunchy texture that some rabbits find particularly appealing. This factor must always be considered before introducing a hemp mat into the living space.

Symptoms to watch for if your rabbit has ingested hemp

A rabbit that eats its hemp mat will not necessarily show symptoms immediately. However, certain signs should raise concern:

• Absence of droppings for more than 12 hours

• Refusal to eat, even hay

• Hunched posture, remains withdrawn or isolated

• Teeth grinding (pain)

• Tense or bloated abdomen

• Body temperature below 38°C

In all cases, a rabbit-savvy veterinarian must be consulted without delay. Prognosis always depends on how early care is provided.

How to prevent a rabbit from eating its hemp mat

It is possible to act effectively on several levers to stop this behavior.

Give your rabbit something else to chew besides the mat

A well-occupied rabbit is a rabbit that does not chew just anything. Offer:

• Apple, hazelnut, or willow branches

• Willow or rush balls

• Cardboard to shred

• Woven grass tunnels

• Foraging toys containing treats

• Jerusalem artichoke chew sticks

These items should be renewed regularly to maintain the rabbit’s interest.