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Neutering Rabbits

Neutering is divided into 2 seperate categories: Ovariohysterectomy for females and Castration for males.

Ovariohysterectomy

Indications:

Uterine adenocarcinoma
Uterine aneurysm
Pyometra
Unwanted pregnancy
Pseudopregnancy
Ovarian neoplasia
Behavioural modification in the management of aggression, sexual behaviour and territorial marking.

Of these Uterine adenocarcinoma is one of the most important. This cancer has been reported to affect over 80% of female rabbits over 5 years old. It is particular prevalent in Dutch, New Zealand and Californian breeds.

If it occurs then it is important to x-ray the chest to ensure that there are no metastasis in the lungs. Without treatment this cancer is fatal.

As with all cancers prevention is better than treatment, and with this very common cancer neutering non-breeding does between 4 months and 2 years is recommended.

Castration

Indications:

Prevention of breeding
Removal of retained testes (not descended)
Testicular neoplasia
Severe testicular trauma
Behavioural problems e.g. urine marking, territorial aggression.

Castration is usually performed in the rabbit over 4 months of age. Neutering is required if two or male rabbits are going to be housed together, to reduce aggression.