If you have pet rabbits, spaying (ovariohysterectomy) or neutering (orchidectomy), or surgically removing their fertility, can help keep them happy and healthy. one of the best ways. Read the article below from Avian & Exotic Veterinary Hospital, Louisiana to see all the reasons why spaying and neutering your rabbit is important.
Benefits of spaying/neutering rabbits
Of course, no surgery is without risk. However, spaying/neutering has many benefits and minimal risks if performed by a veterinarian experienced in rabbit anesthesia and surgery.
Perhaps the most obvious advantage of this surgery is that rabbits do not have to experience pain, risk of death, or tedious care of offspring.
Additionally, spaying or neutering rabbits eliminates the risk of breast, uterine, and/or ovarian cancer in females or testicular cancer in males. For example, an intact (that is, not spayed) female rabbit has up to a 65 percent chance of developing the disease. uterine adenocarcinoma as an adult. Because this cancer can be life-threatening, prevention with oophohysterectomy is highly beneficial.
Additionally, spayed/neutered pets are generally more friendly and affectionate towards their owners and fellow animals. This is thought to be due, at least in part, to altered hormonal responses in rabbits and the fact that their deeply ingrained reproductive desires are eliminated.
What is the appropriate age for spaying/neutering a rabbit?
Whenever possible, rabbits should be spayed or neutered before associated concerns or behavior problems arise. Therefore, the best way to keep your pet healthy is to have surgery when they are young. And generally, when rabbits are around 4-6 months old (when females are sexually mature and males have drooping testicles), surgery can be safely performed. However, depending on the breed, size and health of your rabbit, your exotic veterinarian may advise waiting longer.
If you will be parenting a rabbit later in life, or if you have never considered spaying/neutering before your rabbit is already old, discuss the pros and cons of having the surgery with your veterinarian. Recommended. safety, life extension, etc.). Keep in mind that older animals usually require more preoperative care. Preoperative blood tests or radiographs may be required to assess the rabbit’s health prior to anesthesia and surgery.
Questions to ask an exotic veterinarian
Once your rabbit has been approved for spaying or neutering, there are a few questions you should ask your veterinarian to make sure your rabbit is properly fit and ready. They include:
- How long have you been treating rabbits?
- On average, how many rabbits do you see in your office each year?
- How many times a year do you spay/neuter rabbits?
- What is your success rate?
- Should rabbits be fasted before surgery?
- What is your anesthesia protocol?
- What precautions and support measures do you take before, during and after surgery?
- Could you explain the surgery?
- What is your post-operative plan?
what happens during surgery
Both spaying and neutering procedures require the rabbit to be fully anesthetized. After successful and safe anesthesia, vital signs (heart rate, respiratory rate/effort, blood pressure, temperature, etc.) are closely monitored.
contraceptive surgery
Female rabbits are spayed (ovariohysterectomy), which requires a veterinarian to shave the rabbit’s abdomen, clean the skin, and make an incision in the abdomen. Once the abdomen is opened, the uterus and ovaries are removed. Finally, layers of sutures are used to close the abdominal wall and skin.
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Castration (orchiectomy) is performed on male rabbits and is often a quicker procedure than spaying. For successful castration surgery, the rabbit’s scrotal and penile area must be shaved, the skin disinfected, and a surgical incision made to expose the left and right testicles. From there the testicle is tied off and excised, and the resulting incision is sutured closed.
It is important to note that males can store semen (sperm) in their bodies for up to 3 weeks after neutering. They should be kept away from intact females during that time to avoid unwanted pregnancies.
Postoperative considerations
Most rabbits recover well without incident. It is wise to keep a close eye on them, monitor cuts, and make sure they are eating and drinking. Remember that rabbits are predators, so they are wired to hide signs of pain or discomfort. As such, it is not always possible to know when they are in pain. As such, it is important to provide a safe and comfortable environment to make their healing as easy and efficient as possible. If you have any concerns after surgery, please contact our veterinary team.
It should also be noted that spaying/neutering to correct unwanted behavior is not always a quick fix. For example, hormone levels may take time to stabilize, so the undesirable pattern may continue for some time after surgery. Try to be as positive and patient as possible.
A Veterinarian in Metairie, Los Angeles Will Spay or Neuter Your Rabbit
Spaying and neutering rabbits has been shown to significantly improve their longevity, overall mood, bond with their owners, and many other aspects of their lives. However, all surgeries carry risks, so you should consult with your veterinarian to weigh all the positive benefits.
Spaying and neutering rabbits has been shown to significantly improve their longevity, overall mood, bond with their owners, and many other aspects of their lives. However, all surgeries carry risks, so you should discuss the surgery and its benefits with your veterinarian.
To make an appointment for a rabbit exam, call Louisiana Avian and Exotic Animal Hospital. (504) 455-6386.