Bloat / GI Stasis (chinchillas)

Bloat and gastrointestinal stasis represent serious, potentially life-threatening digestive emergencies in chinchillas that require immediate veterinary intervention. GI stasis, also known as ileus, refers to a dangerous slowing or complete stoppage of normal gut motility, causing food and gas to accumulate in the digestive tract rather than moving through normally. Bloat occurs when gas becomes trapped in the stomach or intestines, causing painful distension that can rapidly compromise circulation and breathing. These conditions can occur independently or together, and both require urgent treatment to prevent fatal outcomes.

Chinchillas are particularly susceptible to gastrointestinal disturbances due to their specialized digestive system, which evolved to process a high-fiber diet of grasses and hay in their native Andean mountain habitat. Their hindgut fermentation system relies on a delicate balance of beneficial bacteria and consistent gut motility to function properly. When this balance is disrupted by dietary changes, stress, dehydration, or other factors, the entire digestive process can grind to a halt. Unlike some species that can vomit to relieve gastrointestinal pressure, chinchillas cannot vomit, making gas and food accumulation particularly dangerous.

The impact of bloat and GI stasis on a chinchilla's health is severe and rapidly progressive. As gut motility decreases, bacteria in the digestive tract continue to ferment food and produce gas, but this gas cannot be effectively expelled. The resulting distension causes significant pain and can compress other organs, interfere with breathing, and compromise blood circulation. Toxins may be released as gut bacteria die or become imbalanced. Without treatment, chinchillas with severe bloat or GI stasis can deteriorate within hours, making this a true veterinary emergency.

Early recognition and immediate treatment are critical for survival in chinchillas with bloat or GI stasis. Pet owners who notice their chinchilla showing signs of discomfort, reduced fecal output, or decreased appetite should seek veterinary care promptly rather than waiting to see if symptoms improve on their own. Because chinchillas are prey animals that instinctively hide illness, by the time obvious symptoms are apparent, the condition may already be advanced. Treatment success depends heavily on how quickly intervention begins, emphasizing the importance of recognizing early warning signs and having access to a veterinarian experienced in exotic small mammal medicine.

The primary causes of bloat and GI stasis in chinchillas relate to disruptions in normal digestive function, which can result from dietary factors, environmental stressors, or underlying health problems. Inappropriate diet is among the most common triggers, particularly sudden dietary changes or feeding foods that chinchillas cannot properly digest. Chinchillas require a diet high in fiber, primarily from unlimited timothy hay, to maintain proper gut motility. Diets too high in pellets, treats, or inappropriate foods such as sugary fruits, vegetables high in moisture, or foods meant for other species can disrupt the delicate balance of gut flora and motility.

Species-specific risk factors make chinchillas particularly vulnerable to gastrointestinal emergencies. Their digestive system is adapted for processing dry, fibrous material, and their inability to vomit means they cannot relieve gastric distension in ways that other animals can. Chinchillas that do not consume adequate hay are at significantly increased risk, as fiber is essential for maintaining gut motility and healthy bacterial populations. Young chinchillas transitioning between diets, older chinchillas with reduced gut function, and chinchillas with dental problems that prevent proper hay consumption are all at elevated risk for GI stasis and bloat.

Environmental and husbandry factors play a substantial role in predisposing chinchillas to gastrointestinal problems. Stress is a major trigger for GI stasis, and chinchillas are highly sensitive to environmental stressors. Changes in routine, housing, or social groupings can initiate digestive slowdown. Temperature stress is particularly dangerous for chinchillas, which are adapted to cool mountain environments and become severely stressed when temperatures exceed 75 degrees Fahrenheit. Inadequate water intake, whether due to malfunctioning water bottles, unpalatable water, or reduced drinking from any cause, contributes to dehydration and reduced gut motility. Lack of exercise from inappropriate housing or limited out-of-cage time can also affect digestive function.

Dietary factors extend beyond simply what foods are offered to include how feeding is managed. Inconsistent feeding schedules can disrupt digestive rhythms. Sudden changes in pellet brands or hay types can trigger GI upset even if the new foods are appropriate. Treats, even those marketed for chinchillas, can cause problems if offered too frequently or in excessive quantities. Foods high in simple carbohydrates promote abnormal bacterial fermentation and gas production. Moldy hay or pellets can introduce toxins and pathogenic bacteria that disrupt normal gut function. Inadequate hay availability, whether due to insufficient quantity or poor quality hay that chinchillas refuse to eat, is a consistent risk factor.

The pathophysiology of bloat and GI stasis involves a dangerous cascade of events once gut motility begins to slow. As food moves more slowly through the digestive tract, it remains in contact with gut bacteria for longer periods, resulting in increased fermentation and gas production. The accumulated gas distends the stomach and intestines, causing pain that further suppresses appetite and gut motility, creating a vicious cycle. As the gut environment changes, beneficial bacteria may die off while harmful bacteria proliferate, potentially releasing toxins. The distended gastrointestinal tract can compress blood vessels and other organs. Dehydration worsens as the chinchilla stops eating and drinking, further thickening gut contents and making them harder to move. Without intervention, this cascade leads to systemic shock and death.

Early warning signs of bloat and GI stasis in chinchillas may be subtle but are critical to recognize for early intervention. Reduced appetite is often the first sign, with chinchillas showing less interest in their usual food, particularly hay. Changes in fecal pellet production are highly significant, as any decrease in the number, size, or consistency of droppings indicates digestive dysfunction. Early on, droppings may become smaller, darker, or irregularly shaped before production decreases significantly. Behavioral changes such as reduced activity, less interest in treats, or subtle changes in posture may precede more obvious symptoms. Owners who handle their chinchillas regularly may notice decreased enthusiasm for interaction or playtime.

As the condition progresses, more visible symptoms develop that clearly indicate gastrointestinal distress. Abdominal distension becomes noticeable as gas accumulates, causing the belly to appear swollen, rounded, or tight. When gently touched, the abdomen may feel firm or drum-like rather than soft and pliable. Affected chinchillas often show signs of pain, including teeth grinding (bruxism), which produces a distinctive sound. Pressing the body against the cage floor or corners may indicate an attempt to relieve abdominal discomfort. The chinchilla may assume a hunched posture, appearing uncomfortable and reluctant to move normally.

Behavioral changes associated with bloat and GI stasis reflect the animal's increasing discomfort and deteriorating condition. Activity levels typically drop dramatically, with affected chinchillas becoming lethargic and spending most of their time sitting still rather than engaging in normal behaviors. Complete loss of appetite develops as the condition worsens, with chinchillas refusing even favorite treats. Hiding behavior increases as the animal seeks seclusion and quiet. Social chinchillas may become withdrawn from cage mates or irritable when approached. Some chinchillas may exhibit restlessness, repeatedly changing positions as they try to find relief from discomfort.

Physical signs of advanced bloat and GI stasis include visible abdominal enlargement that progresses as gas continues to accumulate. Fecal pellet production may cease entirely, representing a critical sign requiring immediate veterinary attention. The chinchilla's coat may appear dull or ruffled as grooming decreases. Eyes may appear dull or squinted in pain. Body temperature may drop as the condition progresses toward shock. Difficulty breathing may develop if abdominal distension presses against the diaphragm. Weight loss can occur rapidly due to lack of food intake and dehydration.

Symptom progression in bloat and GI stasis can be alarmingly rapid, with chinchillas deteriorating from early warning signs to critical condition within hours to a day or two. The timeline depends on the severity of the underlying cause and the degree of gut dysfunction. Mild GI slowdown may progress gradually over several days if not addressed, while severe bloat can become life-threatening within hours. The unpredictable nature of progression underscores the importance of seeking veterinary care at the first sign of digestive disturbance rather than waiting to see if symptoms resolve on their own.

Emergency symptoms requiring immediate veterinary intervention include complete cessation of fecal pellet production for more than twelve hours, severe abdominal distension, labored or rapid breathing, extreme lethargy or unresponsiveness, lying on the side rather than sitting normally, cold extremities indicating shock, and collapse. Any chinchilla showing these signs should be considered a critical emergency. While awaiting veterinary care, keep the chinchilla warm and minimize handling stress, but do not delay seeking professional help. Attempting home treatment for severe bloat or GI stasis without veterinary guidance can waste precious time and may cause harm.

Diagnosis of bloat and GI stasis in chinchillas begins with a thorough physical examination by a veterinarian experienced in exotic small mammal medicine. The veterinarian will assess the chinchilla's overall condition, including body weight, hydration status, and demeanor. Palpation of the abdomen is a key diagnostic step, allowing assessment of abdominal distension, the presence of gas or fluid, and identification of any painful areas or abnormal masses. Auscultation of the abdomen with a stethoscope evaluates gut sounds, which may be reduced or absent in GI stasis. Vital signs including heart rate, respiratory rate, and temperature provide information about the severity of the condition and presence of shock. A detailed history from the owner regarding diet, recent changes, fecal production, and symptom progression helps identify potential triggers.

Diagnostic imaging plays an important role in evaluating chinchillas with suspected bloat or GI stasis. Radiographs of the abdomen are particularly valuable, revealing the distribution of gas throughout the gastrointestinal tract, any foreign material that might be causing obstruction, and the degree of gastric or intestinal distension. In bloat, radiographs typically show a markedly gas-distended stomach or intestinal loops. Radiographs can also help rule out other conditions such as intestinal obstruction from foreign bodies or masses. Ultrasound may provide additional information about gut motility and the contents of the digestive tract, though it is less commonly used than radiography for initial assessment.

Species-specific diagnostic considerations are important when evaluating chinchillas for gastrointestinal emergencies. The chinchilla's delicate nature and sensitivity to stress mean that diagnostic procedures should be performed efficiently to minimize handling time and additional stress. Blood tests, including complete blood count and serum biochemistry, may be recommended to assess overall health status, hydration, and organ function, though obtaining blood samples from stressed chinchillas requires care. Dental examination is important because dental disease is common in chinchillas and can be an underlying cause of reduced hay intake leading to GI stasis. Evaluation of fecal samples, if any are available, may reveal parasites or abnormalities in bacterial populations.

Differential diagnosis for chinchillas presenting with signs of bloat or GI stasis includes several conditions that can produce similar symptoms. Intestinal obstruction from ingested foreign material or hair impaction presents similarly and may require different treatment approaches. Dental disease causing pain and reduced eating can lead to secondary GI stasis and should be evaluated as a potential underlying cause. Infectious enteritis from bacterial, viral, or parasitic causes can affect gut motility and may require specific treatment. Liver disease, kidney disease, and other systemic conditions can reduce appetite and secondarily affect gut function. Pain from any source, including musculoskeletal problems or other organ involvement, can trigger GI slowdown. The veterinarian integrates findings from examination, imaging, and history to determine the most likely diagnosis and appropriate treatment approach.

Emergency treatment for severe bloat in chinchillas may include gastric decompression to relieve life-threatening gas accumulation. This procedure involves passing a tube through the mouth into the stomach to release trapped gas, or in some cases, relieving gas through careful needle decompression under veterinary supervision. These procedures carry risks and should only be performed by experienced veterinary professionals. Intravenous or subcutaneous fluid therapy is typically initiated immediately to address dehydration and support circulation. Pain management is essential, as untreated pain perpetuates the cycle of gut immobility. Thermal support helps maintain body temperature in compromised patients. Oxygen therapy may be needed if respiratory function is compromised by abdominal distension.

Medical management of bloat and GI stasis focuses on restoring normal gut motility, addressing pain and dehydration, and preventing complications. Prokinetic medications such as metoclopramide or cisapride may be prescribed to stimulate gut movement and help move contents through the digestive tract. Simethicone, an anti-gas medication, helps break up gas bubbles and may provide some relief from bloating. Pain management with appropriate analgesics is critical because pain suppresses gut motility, creating a cycle that must be broken for recovery. Fluid therapy, either subcutaneous or intravenous depending on severity, addresses dehydration and helps rehydrate dried gut contents. Gut flora support through probiotics specifically formulated for hindgut fermenters may be beneficial once the acute crisis is managed.

Supportive feeding is a critical component of treatment for chinchillas with GI stasis. When chinchillas stop eating, manual feeding with an appropriate critical care formula designed for herbivores helps provide nutrition, fiber, and fluid while stimulating gut activity. Syringe feeding is typically performed every few hours in hospitalized patients or at home under veterinary guidance. The fiber in critical care formulas helps stimulate gut motility and provides substrate for beneficial gut bacteria. Hay should be offered continuously, as resumption of voluntary hay consumption is a key indicator of recovery. Fresh water must be readily available, and water intake should be encouraged.

Supportive care and environmental management are essential parts of treatment and recovery. Maintaining appropriate environmental temperature is crucial, as chinchillas are highly sensitive to heat and even moderate warming can worsen their condition. A quiet, stress-free environment supports recovery, as stress perpetuates GI dysfunction. Gentle abdominal massage may be recommended by some veterinarians to help move gas and stimulate motility, though this should only be performed as directed. Encouraging movement and gentle exercise, once the chinchilla is stable enough, can help stimulate gut activity. Monitoring fecal output closely provides objective evidence of whether treatment is succeeding.

Species-specific treatment considerations for chinchillas include their extreme sensitivity to heat, which means temperature regulation during treatment and hospitalization must be carefully managed. Chinchillas should never be warmed with heating pads or heat lamps as this can cause heat stroke. Their sensitivity to stress means handling should be minimized and environments kept quiet. Drug dosing must be calculated carefully for their body weight, and many medications require compounding into appropriate concentrations. Chinchillas cannot vomit, so there is no concern about aspiration with oral medications but also no natural relief mechanism for gastric distension. Antibiotic use must be approached cautiously in chinchillas, as many antibiotics can disrupt their essential gut flora.

Treatment challenges in chinchillas with bloat and GI stasis include their tendency to hide illness until severely compromised, meaning many cases present at advanced stages. Their small size makes procedures like intravenous catheterization technically challenging. Stress from hospitalization and handling can worsen the condition, requiring a balance between providing necessary care and minimizing additional stress. Some chinchillas are resistant to syringe feeding, complicating nutritional support. The potential for rapid deterioration means careful monitoring is essential, with readiness to escalate treatment if the chinchilla's condition worsens.

Recovery timeline for chinchillas with bloat and GI stasis varies depending on the severity of the condition at presentation and how quickly treatment was initiated. Mild cases of GI slowdown caught early may respond to treatment within twenty-four to forty-eight hours, with appetite and fecal production returning to normal within a few days. More severe cases, particularly those involving significant bloat or advanced GI stasis, may require several days to a week or more of intensive treatment before the chinchilla is stable. Complete recovery of normal gut function and return to full activity may take additional time even after the acute crisis has resolved.

Post-treatment care and monitoring are essential for ensuring complete recovery and preventing recurrence. Following discharge from hospitalization or resolution of the acute crisis, chinchillas should be monitored closely at home. Fecal pellet production should be tracked carefully, with owners counting droppings and assessing their size and consistency. Any decrease in fecal output should prompt immediate contact with the veterinarian. Appetite should be monitored, with particular attention to hay consumption as this is critical for maintaining gut health. Water intake should be observed to ensure adequate hydration. Follow-up veterinary visits may be recommended to confirm recovery and address any underlying issues that contributed to the episode.

Prognosis for chinchillas with bloat and GI stasis depends significantly on several factors. Early intervention substantially improves outcomes, with chinchillas treated promptly having much better survival rates than those presenting in advanced stages. The severity of the initial episode affects prognosis, with mild GI slowdown carrying a favorable prognosis while severe bloat with circulatory compromise is more guarded. Identification and correction of underlying causes, such as dietary problems or dental disease, influences the likelihood of recurrence and long-term outcome. The individual chinchilla's overall health status and response to treatment also play roles in determining prognosis.

Long-term outlook for chinchillas that survive an episode of bloat or GI stasis can be excellent if underlying causes are addressed and appropriate management is maintained. Many chinchillas recover fully and go on to live normal, healthy lives. However, chinchillas that have experienced GI stasis may be at increased risk for future episodes, making ongoing attention to diet, environment, and stress prevention essential. Identifying and addressing any contributing factors such as dental disease, inappropriate diet, or environmental stressors helps prevent recurrence. Owners should remain vigilant for early signs of digestive problems and seek veterinary care promptly if concerns arise.

Husbandry prevention of bloat and GI stasis in chinchillas centers on providing an appropriate environment that minimizes stress and supports healthy digestive function. Temperature control is paramount, with ambient temperatures maintained below seventy-five degrees Fahrenheit and ideally in the low sixties to avoid heat stress that can trigger GI problems. Good air circulation without direct drafts helps maintain air quality. Clean, appropriate bedding changed regularly prevents exposure to ammonia and potential pathogens. A quiet location for the cage away from loud noises, high traffic, and sudden disturbances reduces stress. Consistent routines for feeding, handling, and cage cleaning help chinchillas feel secure and reduce stress-related GI disruption.

Dietary prevention is perhaps the most critical factor in avoiding bloat and GI stasis in chinchillas. Unlimited access to high-quality timothy hay must be the foundation of the diet, providing the fiber essential for maintaining gut motility. Hay should be fresh, green, and aromatic, stored properly to prevent mold, and offered in quantities that allow the chinchilla to eat as much as desired. Pellets should be high-quality, chinchilla-specific formulations offered in limited quantities, typically one to two tablespoons daily. Treats should be given sparingly, consisting only of safe options like dried rose hips or small pieces of approved dried herbs, and never including sugary fruits, fresh vegetables, or inappropriate human foods. Dietary changes should be made gradually over one to two weeks to allow gut flora to adapt.

Stress reduction plays a significant role in preventing GI stasis in chinchillas. Appropriate cage size and setup with hiding places, platforms, and enrichment items helps chinchillas feel secure. Social needs should be met, with most chinchillas benefiting from same-sex companions, though some do well alone. Handling should be gentle and consistent, building trust over time rather than forcing interaction. New chinchillas should be given time to acclimate to their environment with minimal handling initially. Environmental changes should be minimized, and when necessary, introduced gradually. Recognizing individual stressors for each chinchilla allows targeted prevention strategies.

Regular health monitoring helps catch early signs of digestive problems before they progress to emergencies. Daily observation of fecal pellet production, appetite, and activity level establishes baselines that make detecting changes easier. Weekly weighing tracks body condition and may reveal weight loss before it becomes visually apparent. Checking hay and pellet consumption patterns helps identify early appetite changes. Understanding what is normal for each individual chinchilla improves ability to recognize abnormalities. Keeping a log of observations can help identify patterns or triggers for any digestive issues.

Veterinary check-ups with practitioners experienced in exotic small mammal medicine support overall health and help prevent GI problems. Regular dental examinations are particularly important because dental disease is common in chinchillas and can lead to reduced hay intake and secondary GI stasis. Annual or twice-yearly wellness visits allow professional assessment of health status. Establishing a relationship with an exotic veterinarian ensures expert care is available quickly if GI problems do develop. Discussing diet, husbandry, and any concerns with the veterinarian provides opportunities for guidance on prevention strategies tailored to individual chinchillas.

Ongoing daily care requirements for preventing and managing GI health in chinchillas focus on consistent routines that support healthy digestive function. Fresh timothy hay should be provided in unlimited quantities daily, with the hay rack or feeding area checked and refilled as needed. Hay quality should be assessed regularly, with any moldy, dusty, or yellowed hay discarded. Measured portions of appropriate pellets should be offered on a consistent schedule. Fresh, clean water must always be available, with water bottles checked daily for proper function and cleanliness. Daily observation of fecal pellet production provides ongoing assessment of gut health, with any changes in quantity, size, or consistency noted and addressed promptly.

Environmental management for GI health in chinchillas requires attention to temperature, cleanliness, and stress factors. Temperature should be monitored daily, especially during warm weather, with cooling measures such as air conditioning, fans, or granite cooling stones available if needed. Cage cleaning should follow a regular schedule, with spot cleaning daily and more thorough cleaning weekly or as needed. Bedding materials should be safe and dust-free. The cage environment should provide security through adequate hiding spaces while also offering enrichment through platforms, toys, and opportunities for activity. Exercise time outside the cage, in a safe and chinchilla-proofed area, supports overall health and gut motility.

Monitoring health indicators on an ongoing basis helps detect early signs of GI problems. Counting fecal pellets or at least assessing overall production provides objective data about gut function. Normal chinchilla droppings should be uniform, dry, oval-shaped pellets produced in consistent quantities. Any decrease in production, change in size or shape, or presence of soft or irregular droppings warrants attention. Appetite should be observed, with particular attention to hay consumption. Body weight tracked weekly helps detect subtle changes. Behavior and activity level serve as indicators of overall wellbeing, with lethargy or reduced activity potentially signaling health issues.

Quality of life considerations guide management decisions for chinchillas recovering from or prone to GI issues. The goal is maintaining a healthy, comfortable life through appropriate husbandry and diet. Balancing the chinchilla's need for a strict diet with their enjoyment of occasional safe treats requires judgment. Stress reduction should be prioritized, recognizing that individual chinchillas have different tolerances for handling, environmental changes, and social situations. Quality of life includes the ability to engage in normal chinchilla behaviors such as dust bathing, exploring, and interacting with owners or cage mates.

Caregiver support and resources help owners manage their chinchilla's GI health effectively. Understanding the critical importance of diet and the serious nature of GI stasis empowers owners to prioritize prevention. Connecting with chinchilla owner communities provides peer support and information sharing. Having contact information for an exotic veterinarian readily available ensures quick access to care when needed. Learning to recognize early warning signs of GI problems enables prompt intervention. Preparing for emergencies by having critical care formula on hand allows immediate supportive care while arranging veterinary evaluation. Educating household members about proper chinchilla care ensures consistent management.

All chinchillas are inherently susceptible to bloat and GI stasis due to their specialized digestive system and the delicate balance required to maintain healthy gut function. However, certain populations face elevated risk. Chinchillas fed inappropriate diets, particularly those receiving insufficient hay or excessive treats and pellets, are at significantly increased risk for GI problems. Those housed in environments where temperatures regularly exceed seventy-five degrees Fahrenheit experience chronic heat stress that predisposes to digestive issues. Chinchillas in high-stress situations, whether from inappropriate housing, lack of hiding spaces, excessive handling, or incompatible cage mates, face increased likelihood of stress-induced GI stasis.

Age and health status influence susceptibility to bloat and GI stasis. Young chinchillas, particularly those recently weaned or transitioning between diets, may be more vulnerable to digestive upset as their gut flora establishes. Older chinchillas, especially those over ten years of age, may have reduced gut motility and be more prone to GI slowdown. Chinchillas with dental disease, which is extremely common in the species, may reduce their hay intake due to oral pain, directly leading to decreased fiber consumption and increased risk of GI stasis. Those with other chronic health conditions or compromised immune systems may be less able to recover from digestive disturbances.

Species-specific susceptibilities make chinchillas uniquely vulnerable to gastrointestinal emergencies compared to some other small mammals. Their hindgut fermentation digestive system is highly specialized and less adaptable than the digestive systems of omnivorous species. Their inability to vomit eliminates one potential relief mechanism for gastric distension. Their evolutionary adaptation to cool, dry mountain environments makes them poorly equipped to handle heat stress, which can trigger GI shutdown. Their status as prey animals leads them to hide illness, often delaying recognition of GI problems until they are advanced. These biological factors underscore the importance of preventive management for all chinchillas, regardless of individual risk factors.

Several conditions commonly co-occur with or contribute to bloat and GI stasis in chinchillas. Dental disease, characterized by overgrown or maloccluded teeth, is extremely common in chinchillas and frequently underlies GI stasis by causing pain that reduces hay consumption. Dental problems should be evaluated in any chinchilla with GI issues, as addressing dental disease is essential for long-term prevention of recurrence. Hepatic lipidosis, or fatty liver disease, can develop when chinchillas stop eating, creating a secondary complication that worsens prognosis. Dehydration accompanies GI stasis and becomes a significant concern requiring aggressive fluid therapy.

Conditions with similar clinical presentations to bloat and GI stasis include intestinal obstruction from ingested foreign material or hair impaction, which can produce identical symptoms but may require surgical intervention. Infectious enteritis from bacterial or parasitic causes can affect gut motility and may require specific antimicrobial treatment in addition to supportive care. Megacolon, an abnormal dilation of the colon, is seen in some chinchillas and causes chronic digestive dysfunction. Pain from any source, including urinary stones, reproductive problems, or musculoskeletal injuries, can trigger secondary GI stasis. Accurate diagnosis is important because treatment may differ depending on the underlying cause.

Secondary complications of bloat and GI stasis can be serious and affect prognosis. Hepatic lipidosis may develop within days of anorexia, damaging the liver and complicating recovery. Severe dysbiosis, or disruption of normal gut bacteria, can lead to overgrowth of pathogenic organisms and enterotoxemia. Shock from circulatory compromise in severe bloat can cause multi-organ damage. Aspiration pneumonia can occur if critical care feeding is performed improperly. Adhesions from severe intestinal inflammation may cause chronic digestive problems even after the acute episode resolves. Recurrence is a significant concern, with chinchillas that have experienced GI stasis being at increased risk for future episodes.