
Spaying/Neutering is the number 1 most responsible thing you can do for your pet rabbit. If you’ve recently welcomed a rabbit into your home, you may be wondering how best to care for them and keep them happy. One of the most impactful steps you can take is to have your rabbit spayed or neutered. Not only can it prevent aggressive behaviors like biting and territorial marking, but it can also significantly reduce health risks, especially reproductive cancers that are common in rabbits. Whether your rabbit is a solo pet or part of a bonded pair, spaying or neutering is a simple way to ensure a peaceful, healthy home.
Another way to look at it is, every year, thousands of rabbits end up in shelters, often because of behaviors or issues that could have been prevented with early spaying or neutering. As a responsible pet owner, it’s crucial to understand how spaying/neutering can contribute to reducing the number of unwanted bunnies. By making this choice, you’re not only investing in your pet’s health and happiness but also supporting humane rabbit care overall.
Spaying/Neutering Pros vs. Cons

Benefits of Spaying/Neutering
The most obvious benefit of spaying/neutering is the elimination of unwanted pregnancy especially if you have a male rabbit nearby. One un-spayed female can produce up to 14 kits in each litter. With a litter every month, that means she could have up to 168 kits annually. Overpopulation can lead to many rabbits being surrendered to shelters or living in poor conditions. But there are other medical and behavioral benefits to having your rabbit fixed.
Medical Benefits
Reduced Risk of Reproductive Cancer: Spaying female rabbits significantly lowers the risk of ovarian, uterine, and mammary gland cancers. One study showed that up to 85% of females un-spayed by age 3 will develop reproductive cancers.
“pseudo-pregnancy”, also known as a false pregnancy, is a condition an intact female may develop. She will start nest building, produce milk, and experience maternal aggression towards people and other animals. In some cases, this condition can lead to mastitis (infection of the mammary glands).
Elimination of Uterine Infection (Pyometra): Spaying prevents pyometra, a life-threatening infection of the uterus that can occur in un-spayed females.
Prevention of Prostate Issues: Neutering male rabbits can prevent prostate problems, including the enlargement of the prostate and testicular cancers.
Longer Lifespan: Spayed and neutered rabbits tend to live longer and healthier lives, as they are less prone to the diseases associated with their reproductive systems.
Behavioral
Less Aggression and Territorial Behavior: Intact rabbits may exhibit aggressive or territorial behaviors, such as biting and fighting. Spaying/neutering will make it less likely for them to display these undesirable behaviors.
Reduction in Mounting and Humping: These behaviors are often linked to hormonal urges, and they can be less frequent or stop altogether after the procedure.
Less Urine Marking: Rabbits that have yet to be fixed are notorious for marking their territory by spraying urine. It is a messy, stinky business so spaying/neutering can significantly reduce or eliminate this behavior.
Better Socialization: It is much easier to bond rabbits that have been spayed or neutered. They are often more compatible with other rabbits and are less likely to fight making the bonding process more successful.
Improved Litter Box Habits: Spaying/neutering your rabbit can help improve its litter box habits, as hormonal changes can contribute to inconsistent or inappropriate elimination behavior.
Overall Demeanor: Spaying/neutering can lead to a calmer, more relaxed rabbit. Without the hormonal influences that drive mating behavior, your rabbit may be less hyperactive, easier to manage, and more affectionate.
Caveat: spaying/neutering does not rid your rabbit of all of their hormones…testosterone for males and oestrogen for females. Because of this, you may see a slight spike in romantic behavior usually in the spring time.
Ideal Age For Spaying/Neutering
Yes, age does matter when it comes to spaying/neutering and so does physical maturity as well as the overall health of your rabbit. The best time to spay a female is when she reaches sexual maturity, (3 to 6 months of age). However, some veterinarians prefer to wait until 5 to 6 months old because this invasive surgery is riskier on a younger rabbit. The best time to neuter a male rabbit is when his testicles have descended, which is usually around 8 to 12 weeks. However, some recommend waiting until the rabbit is 5 or 6 months old. Performing the surgery after a rabbit is physically mature but still young reduces anesthesia risks and complications. Young rabbits typically recover more quickly than older ones. Rabbits of any age that weigh under 1kg cannot be intubated and therefore are not candidates for surgery. Females over ages 5-6 years of age are usually considered too old for the risks of the surgery.
Questions to Ask Your Exotic Vet
Spaying/neutering, while relatively risk free straight forward procedures, still need to be performed by an experienced qualified rabbit vet. The quality of pre-op, surgical and post-op care is of the utmost importance for your rabbit. Always consult with an experienced rabbit-savvy vet to discuss the specifics of the procedure and ensure the best care for your rabbit.
- What are your credentials? Do you have an advanced care degree specializing in exotics? Do you keep up to date with the latest medical news pertaining to rabbits?
- How many rabbits do you see annually?
- How many spays/neuters have you done? What is your success rate? Have you ever lost a rabbit? (if so what was the cause?)
- What is the process for spaying/neutering? Please describe the surgery
- What is your pre-op care?
- Does my rabbit need to fast? (ABSOLUTELY THE ANSWER SHOULD BE NO)
- What is the post-op care
- What is the home care recovery plan?
- What medications will you be using/ prescribing including anesthesia?
- What do I need to bring the day of surgery? When will my rabbit be released to come home?
The Procedure
Spaying/neutering are relatively straightforward and safe procedures when performed by an experienced veterinarian. While the surgery does carry some risks, the health and behavioral benefits of spaying are well worth it. With proper care before, during, and after the surgery, most rabbits recover quickly and live healthier, longer lives free from reproductive health issues. Always consult with an experienced rabbit-savvy vet to discuss the specifics of the procedure and ensure the best care for your rabbit.
Pre-Surgery
- Health Evaluation: Before the procedure, the rabbit will undergo a thorough health check by the vet to ensure it is fit for surgery. The vet may check for signs of illness, dehydration, or any other health concerns that could affect the surgery.
- Fasting: Rabbits are NOT fasted before surgery as humans or some other animals are, since they are unable to vomit.
- Pre-Surgical Blood Work: In some cases, a blood test may be done to check for underlying health issues, especially in older rabbits, to ensure they can tolerate anesthesia.
Anesthesia
- General Anesthesia: Spaying/neutering requires general anesthesia, meaning the rabbit will be unconscious and completely unaware during the procedure. The vet will use injectable or gas anesthesia to sedate the rabbit and ensure they don’t feel pain. Typically a neuter is much quicker and therefore males will not be under as long as a female.
- Monitoring: Throughout the procedure, your rabbit will be closely monitored by the veterinary team. They will check vital signs such as heart rate, respiration, and temperature to make sure he or she is stable under anesthesia.
Spaying Procedure
Spaying, also known as an ovariohysterectomy, is a surgical procedure in which both the ovaries and the uterus are removed. The operation is performed through a small incision, typically 1 to 2 inches long, just below the umbilical area. The hair will be shaved and surgically prepared prior to the surgery. The incision will be closed with several layers of dissolvable sutures through the muscle and skin. Occasionally, rabbits will chew the sutures and open the surgical wound. This needs immediate veterinary attention. If sutures are placed on top of the skin, many rabbits will chew them and open the surgical wound. If sutures are placed outside the skin, they will need to be removed in seven to ten days. Sutures placed under the skin should dissolve in 14-21 days.
Neutering Procedure
Neutering, also called an orchidectomy or castration, is the surgical removal of the testicles. The vet will make a small incision in the scrotal sac (the skin that contains the testicles). Unlike spaying, which involves an abdominal incision, neutering typically involves a much smaller incision, which is a relatively quick and less invasive procedure. The testicles are carefully removed through this incision. Since the procedure is relatively simple, there’s minimal tissue trauma. After removal, the spermatic cords (which carry blood and nerves to the testicles) are tied off to prevent bleeding. The incision is usually small and may be closed with a few sutures, but in many cases, the sutures used are absorbable, meaning they dissolve on their own without needing to be removed.
Long Beach Animal Hospital has developed an alternate procedure for neutering using lasers. They state “Our rabbit patients appreciate the fact that after surgery there is negligible pain, swelling, and inflammation.”
Post Surgical Care
- Recovery from Anesthesia: After the surgery is complete, your rabbit is allowed to wake up from the anesthesia in a quiet, warm, and comfortable area. Recovery time can vary, but rabbits typically recover from anesthesia more quickly than other animals.
- Pain Management: The vet may prescribe pain medications (such as injectable painkillers or oral meds) to keep the rabbit comfortable after surgery. Rabbits are very sensitive to pain, so pain management is essential for their recovery.
- Observation: Your rabbit will be monitored for signs of complications, such as excessive bleeding, infection, or problems with the anesthesia. Some vets may recommend keeping the rabbit in the clinic for a few hours or overnight to ensure there are no immediate complications.
Home Care & Recovery
- Rest and Observation: After returning home, your rabbit should be kept in a calm, quiet environment where they can rest. Avoid handling them too much for the first few days to allow them to heal.
- Food and Water: Make sure your rabbit has access to fresh hay, water, and food immediately after the procedure. It’s important for rabbits to eat and drink as soon as possible after surgery to avoid gastrointestinal stasis (a potentially serious condition). Your rabbit should be eating, drinking, defecating, and urinating within 12-24 hours of the operation.
- Litter Box Use: Ensure your rabbit uses their litter box and has access to it. Their stool may be a little softer than usual, but they should still be able to eat, drink, and eliminate waste normally. I like to use washable pee pads during this time for easier access.
- Activity Restrictions: Limit your rabbit’s activity for at least 7-10 days after the procedure. Avoid any rough play or activities that could cause injury or strain the surgical site.
- Incision Care: Check the incision site daily for any signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, or discharge. If the incision looks red or starts to ooze, contact the vet immediately. Many rabbits may try to lick or chew at the incision site, which could lead to infection or the sutures being pulled out prematurely. If needed, a soft Elizabethan collar (cone) may be used to prevent them from reaching the incision.
- Follow-up Appointment: A follow-up visit is usually scheduled within 7-10 days after the surgery to ensure proper healing and to remove any non-dissolvable sutures if necessary.
Drugs Prescribed
The drugs used in spaying/neutering perioperative (before and during surgery) and postoperative (after surgery) care of rabbits are selected carefully to account for their unique physiology and sensitivity to certain medications. It’s essential for the veterinarian to be experienced with rabbits, as incorrect dosing or certain drugs can be highly risky.
Pre-Operative Drugs
- Sedatives: Sedatives are often used to help reduce the rabbit’s anxiety and make handling easier. Common choices include:
- Midazolam: A benzodiazepine that acts as a sedative without strong respiratory depression. It is often combined with other agents.
- Butorphanol: This opioid is sometimes used to provide mild sedation and initial pain relief, especially for anxious rabbits.
Anticholinergics: Although not always used, some vets administer anticholinergics like atropine or glycopyrrolate to help manage salivation and maintain heart rate during anesthesia. However, these are used selectively, as they may interfere with the rabbit’s delicate digestive system.
Anesthesia
- Induction Agents: To induce anesthesia, vets often use:
- Propofol: A short-acting injectable anesthetic that helps induce anesthesia quickly, allowing for smoother intubation.
- Alfaxalone: Another induction agent that’s commonly used in rabbits for a smoother, less stressful induction, especially for sensitive animals.
- Inhalant Anesthetics: Once the rabbit is under anesthesia, an inhalant anesthetic is typically used for maintenance:
- Isoflurane or Sevoflurane: These are common inhalant anesthetics that are safer for rabbits due to their rapid onset and recovery times, minimizing respiratory risks.
- Local Anesthetics: Some vets may also use local anesthetics to reduce pain at the incision site, such as:
- Lidocaine or Bupivacaine: These can be used in small doses directly at the surgical site for added pain control without the need for high systemic doses.
Post-Operative
- Recovery:
- Meloxicam: A nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) commonly prescribed for rabbits due to its effectiveness in controlling pain and inflammation. Doses are tailored carefully, as rabbits can be sensitive to NSAIDs.
- Buprenorphine: A partial opioid that offers strong pain relief with fewer side effects. It’s commonly used in the first day or two after surgery to manage moderate to severe pain.
- Anti-Inflammatories: Besides meloxicam, some veterinarians may use additional NSAIDs if warranted, but these are prescribed cautiously to avoid gastrointestinal upset.
- Prokinetics: Since rabbits are prone to gastrointestinal stasis after surgery, prokinetic agents susch a Bene-bac may be prescribed to keep the digestive system moving.
- Appetite Stimulants: If a rabbit is reluctant to eat after surgery, appetite stimulants may be used, though this is less common and typically considered after other interventions.
- Subcutaneous or Intravenous Fluids: Fluid therapy is essential, especially if the rabbit is not eating or drinking. Lactated Ringer’s solution (LRS) is often used to maintain hydration and support recovery.
Potential Risks of Spaying/Neutering
As with any surgical procedure, spaying/neutering a rabbit carries certain risks and possible complications. However with todays advanced technology, monitoring equipment and a qualified surgical team, your rabbit should come through surgery just fine.
1. Anesthesia Risks
- Sensitivity to Anesthesia: Rabbits are more sensitive to anesthesia than many other pets. They have unique metabolic and respiratory systems, so precise dosing and monitoring by an experienced veterinarian is crucial. That being said, these reactions are on the rare side.
- Respiratory Complications: Some rabbits may have trouble breathing under anesthesia, especially if they’re already stressed.
- Digestive Stasis: Anesthesia and the stress of surgery can disrupt a rabbit’s delicate digestive system, potentially leading to gastrointestinal (GI) stasis, a life-threatening condition where the digestive system slows or stops.
2. Infection
- Incision Site Infection: Any surgery that involves incisions carries the risk of infection. Careful monitoring of the incision area and keeping it clean can reduce this risk. Some rabbits may react poorly to sutures or try to chew them, which can cause wound reopening or infection. Living in a damp environment, excreting in an unclean litter box or excessive licking can cause a breeding ground for bacteria leading to infection.
- Internal Infections: There’s also a risk of infection internally if bacteria are introduced during the procedure or if the immune system is compromised due to stress.
- Abscess Formation: Sometimes infection can lead to abscesses around the surgical site in males, which will then require further treatment.
3. Post-Surgical Complications
- Pain and Discomfort: After surgery, rabbits may experience pain or discomfort that could affect their eating and movement. Pain management is essential, as discomfort can lead to GI stasis.
- Swelling and Inflammation: Males may experience mild swelling which is normal, but excessive swelling or inflammation could indicate infection or other complications.
- Scrotal Hernia: Rarely, rabbits can develop scrotal hernias after neutering, where abdominal tissue protrudes through the surgical site. This may require additional surgery.
- Fluid Buildup: Sometimes, fluid can accumulate at the surgical site, which could lead to discomfort or infection.
- Loss of Appetite: A lack of appetite is common post-surgery, and it’s essential for rabbits to keep eating to maintain their gut health. This requires close monitoring, and syringe feeding may be necessary.
- Behavioral Changes: Some rabbits may experience behavioral changes, such as becoming withdrawn or aggressive, as they recover.
4. Hemorrhage
- Bleeding: Rabbits have fragile blood vessels, and there is a risk of internal bleeding during and after the procedure. If not addressed, excessive bleeding can lead to anemia or be fatal. Again, this is also rare and is more likely to occur if your rabbit is too active in the days following the surgery. Better to err on the side of caution and keep your bun quiet for several days. Signs to watch for include weakness, pale gums, depression/listlessness, lack of appetite, or a distended abdomen.
5. Stress-Related Complications
- Stress during Recovery: Rabbits are very sensitive creatures, and the stress of the spaying/neutering surgery and recovery can lead to shock or refusal to eat. This can be managed with a calm environment, plenty of familiar bedding, and monitoring. Some rabbits may become withdrawn, or conversely, more active post-surgery, as they adjust hormonally and recover.
Reducing risks is the best way to help your rabbit recover from spaying/neutering. First and foremost is to have the surgery done by an experienced exotic vet. next keep your rabbit in a quiet and clean environment. Monitor the incision every day. If you notice any signs of discomfort, bleeding, oozing, loss of appetite or not defecating, it is imperative to call your vet immediately.
Varying Costs
The average cost of spaying/neutering a rabbit in the U.S. varies widely depending on location, veterinary expertise, and clinic type. Spaying females can on average range from $150 to 500 while neutering on average can cost $75 to $300. This is due to the fact a female surgery is more invasive than the male. A possibility for financial help is through pet insurance although it would be cheapest to adopt a rabbit that has been previously spayed or neutered.
Factors Influencing Cost
- Location: Urban areas or places with fewer exotic pet vets tend to be more expensive.
- Specialized Veterinary Clinics: Clinics that specialize in exotic animals or rabbits often charge more due to their expertise.
- Low-Cost Clinics and Rescues: Some animal shelters, rabbit rescues, and low-cost spay/neuter clinics offer reduced rates, sometimes as low as $50 – $100.
- Additional Care: Costs may increase if pre-surgical bloodwork, pain medication, or post-operative care are included.
While both the U.S. and U.K. provide similar levels of care for spaying/neutering rabbits, costs in the U.S. are generally higher due to fewer low-cost options and a smaller pool of rabbit-specific vets. U.K. rabbit owners benefit from more affordable options and widespread insurance coverage, making procedures easier to access and often more affordable.
Spaying/Neutering Costs US vs. UK


In the U.K., there is a larger network of veterinarians who are trained to handle small animals like rabbits, as rabbits are a more popular pet, making access to care generally easier. U.K. clinics are more likely to offer a comprehensive package including follow-up checkups and pain management for a slightly lower fee. They also have more rabbit-specialized clinics that use less stressful handling techniques for rabbits, emphasizing post-surgery monitoring for faster recovery. Post-operative pain management is often bundled in the surgical cost, which can reduce overall expenses for aftercare. U.K. pet insurance often covers preventative care, making spaying/neutering procedures more accessible and affordable for rabbit owners.
Final Thoughts

With an overpopulation of rabbits world wide, spaying/neutering is the most responsible thing a pet rabbit owner can do. You have chosen this rabbit to be a part of your family, to give him or her their best life and by having them fixed you are protecting them from reproductive cancers and extending their life. We have so little time with them as it is, so why not do the best thing for them…and yourself.