1) Prevention of pregnancy
This is the most common reason for neutering a rabbit; ideally a male and female should be kept as a neutered pair. There are an estimated 67,000 unwanted pet rabbits registered through rescue centres every year in the UK, we want to avoid breeding more! Beware….Does (female rabbits) are fertile within 24 hours of giving birth.
2) Prevention of uterine cancer
This is the most compelling medical reason to neuter female rabbits. 80% of females develop uterine cancer by the age of 3, regardless of breed of if she’s had a litter. Females develop malignant uterine adenocarcinoma; unfortunately this aggressive cancer can spread (metastasise) rapidly to other organs such as the lungs, liver and skin. The time of detection from tumour to death from metastases is 12-24 months. The saddest thing is that simply speying a female as soon as possible from the age of 6 months could prevent this and ensure a long happy life for the rabbit.
3) Prevention of other uterine diseases
Other common uterine diseases include pyometra (a pus filled uterus), uterine aneurism (a blood filled uterus), and endometritis (inflammation of the uterine lining). They are usually seen in rabbits over 2 years of age. Neutering a rabbit before they are 2 years old can prevent these diseases.
4) Prevention of false pregnancies
Females can go into a state where their body thinks it is pregnant but there is actually no pregnancy. Symptoms include nest building, milk production, weight loss, and aggressive protection of territory. Nest building is incredibly labour intensive; the female will pull out her own fur and become stressed for weeks at a time. The worst cases get repeated false pregnancies and are never fully able to recover. This exhausting condition is completely preventable by neutering females.
5) Prevention of mammary (breast) diseases
Mammary cancer is uncommon but spreads rapidly and can be difficult to treat; the most common form of mammary cancer is carcinoma and is almost always associated with uterine cancer. Females can develop mammary cysts, which are benign, but are uncomfortable for your rabbit. Neutering a female prior to 2 years of age will prevent both conditions.
6) Positive changes in behaviour
Neutered rabbits are much easier to litter train if kept indoors. Neutered outdoor rabbits are easier to clean out and they keep their hutch cleaner. When females are sexually mature, around 6-12 months of age, they can display aggressive behaviour. They do not want to be picked up or even touched, they may bite, strike, lunge or chase. Mature females can also mount each other or the owner as a natural instinct caused by high levels of hormones. Neutering rabbits will keep all this behaviour to a minimum.
7) Prevention of urine spraying
Females can spray urine on surfaces, each other and even you to mark their territory. If the behaviour becomes ‘learnt’ then it is impossible to completely stop it, however neutering can help nip this in the bud.