Neutering Rabbits is Best: Vet‑Approved 2025 Guide by Dr Duncan Houston 🐇✂️

Introduction

Spaying and neutering rabbits isn't just about preventing baby bunnies—it's one of the most powerful decisions a rabbit owner can make to protect their pet's health and wellbeing. In this 2025 vet-approved guide, Dr Duncan Houston explains why neutering is a must-do for both male and female rabbits. 🩺

1. What Is Neutering?

Neutering refers to the surgical removal of reproductive organs in both male and female rabbits. 💉

• Males: Castration (removal of testicles)
• Females: Ovariohysterectomy (removal of ovaries + uterus)

2. Why Neuter Your Rabbit? 🐰❤️

🚫 Prevent Unwanted Pregnancies

Housing mixed-sex rabbits leads to rapid reproduction. A single unneutered pair can produce hundreds of babies per year. Overpopulation leads to abandonment and neglect—neutering is responsible rabbit ownership.

🛡️ Prevent Uterine Cancer in Females

The most compelling medical reason to spay female rabbits is uterine adenocarcinoma. In some rabbit populations, this aggressive cancer affects up to 80% of females. It spreads to lungs, liver, even skin, and is fatal when metastatic. Spaying before age 2 offers near-total protection. 🎯

💉 Prevent Other Uterine Diseases

• Pyometra: infected pus-filled uterus
• Uterine aneurysm: uterus filled with blood
• Endometritis: inflamed uterine lining

All are more common in rabbits over 2 years old. Spaying eliminates the risk. 🩸

🥚 Prevent False Pregnancies

Ovarian hormones can trick the body into acting pregnant. This leads to nest-building, milk production, and even aggression. Though not physically harmful, it's emotionally stressful for your bunny—and often unpleasant for owners. Spaying stops the cycle. 🧠💤

🧬 Prevent Mammary Gland Disease

• Mammary carcinoma: aggressive, often linked to uterine cancer
• Mammary dysplasia: benign but uncomfortable swelling

Both are prevented by early spaying (before age 2). 🩺

😤 Prevent Aggression

Unneutered rabbits often become territorial and aggressive after reaching sexual maturity (6–12 months). Lunging, biting, chasing, and cage aggression are common. Neutering around this time often curbs these behaviors. 🛑

🚽 Prevent Urine Spraying

Unneutered males spray vertical surfaces (and sometimes people!) to mark territory. Female urine-marking is less frequent, but can happen. Neutering stops this habit—and the strong-smelling urine of intact males. 🧼

💥 Prevent Testicular Disease in Males

Though rare, intact males can develop testicular abscesses, hematomas, and tumors. Castration eliminates these risks. 🎯

3. When to Neuter 🗓️

• Ideal age: 4–6 months for small breeds; up to 9 months for giants
• Too young? Reproductive organs may be too small.
• Too old? Increased surgical risks—spay before age 2 if possible.

Obese or ill rabbits should delay surgery until health improves. Your vet may run diagnostics to assess readiness. 🩻

4. What Happens During Surgery? 🏥

🧔 Castration (Male)

The testicles are completely removed. Two options:

• Single incision: in front of the scrotum
• Two incisions: one over each scrotal sac

Post-surgery swelling is normal for 48 hours. Do not place neutered males with females for 3 weeks—they may still have viable sperm and mating drive. Sperm in the vas deferens can survive up to 14 days! 🧬

👩 Spaying (Female)

Ovaries, uterus, and both cervices are removed via a small abdominal incision. Rabbits have two cervices—unlike humans and most pets. Sutures are buried under the skin to prevent nibbling. Dissolvable materials are used. 🧵

🆕 Alternate Procedure

Some vets now advocate ovariectomy (ovaries only) for rabbits < 2 years. It's less invasive, but may not prevent uterine cancer. Discuss pros/cons with your exotic animal vet. If age is unknown (rescue rabbits), opt for full removal to be safe. ⚖️

5. Post‑Surgical Recovery 🛏️

Most rabbits recover in 5–7 days with proper care. 💚

• Check the incision twice daily for redness, swelling, discharge, or dehiscence.
• Temporary appetite loss, stool changes, or lethargy are normal for 1–2 days.
• Always provide pain relief (vet prescribed).
• Antibiotics are rarely needed unless there are complications.

If your rabbit isn't eating, pooping, or moving, call your vet immediately! 🆘

6. Summary of Benefits 📋

7. Dr Duncan Houston’s 2025 Top Tips ✅

• 🐇 Spay females before age 2 to prevent uterine and mammary tumors.
• 🧒 Supervise handling of recovering rabbits to prevent injury.
• 🛏️ Use soft, absorbent bedding post-surgery—avoid straw or wired floors.
• 🚿 Provide clean, quiet environments for healing.
• 👩‍⚕️ Have post-op pain meds on hand.
• ⏱️ Monitor appetite, poop, behavior—log changes daily.
• 🩺 Contact your vet immediately if anything seems off!

Conclusion 🐇💖

Neutering is more than birth control—it’s cancer prevention, behavioral improvement, and the foundation of responsible rabbit care. By neutering your bunny, you're giving them the healthiest, happiest life possible. Trust the science, trust your vet, and support your rabbit every step of the way. 💕

Ask A Vet for Help 📱

Need post-op advice or unsure if your rabbit’s ready for surgery? Download the Ask A Vet app or visit AskAVet.com for support from small animal experts. 🐾

Disclaimer

This article is for educational purposes and does not replace veterinary care. Always consult your vet for individual guidance.