Spay/Neuter

Spay/Neuter Information  Print This Page
Note: “Neuter” can refer to operations on either male or female rabbits. “Spay” refers only to females.

Why is it essential to neuter my pet rabbit?
Rabbits must be neutered for reasons of overpopulation, health, behavior, happiness, and companionship. Please see the article Five Reasons to Spay or Neuter Your Rabbit.

At what age is it safe to neuter a rabbit?
Most female rabbits should be spayed at four months of age. Male rabbits can be neutered as soon as their testicles descend, at about 10-14 weeks of age. Some veterinarians feel more comfortable waiting until males are a minimum of three months of age. Older rabbits can also be neutered if they are in good health. Since females are prone to developing reproductive organ cancers, there is even more reason to spay an older intact female, to remove any cancer that may have already developed. You will want to have your older rabbit examined and a blood test done prior to neuter, and we do recommend that neutering of older rabbits be done by a specialist with a high success rate.

Where should I take my rabbit to be neutered?
Spay/neuter options for rabbits vary by location. If you live in the Los Angeles area, see our list of S/N Clinics and our list of rabbit veterinarians.

What do I need to know before my rabbit’s operation?
Your rabbit should NOT be fasted prior to the operation. Instead, try to get your rabbit to eat something as close to the time of operation as possible, and bring along some of your bunny’s food in case there’s a wait. To minimize stress, do not leave your rabbit at the neuter clinic or veterinary hospital any more in advance of the operation than is absolutely necessary. Rabbits should be transported in a hard plastic carrier with liner such as artificial lambswool to keep them from sliding around and soiling themselves as they wait for surgery or are transported back home. When transporting, be aware that rabbits overheat easily–never leave a rabbit in a closed vehicle.

What should I do after my rabbit’s operation?
See our post-op instruction page here.

What will it cost to have my rabbit neutered?
Costs vary between $55 for a low-cost neuter to $500 for a spay done by an exotic specialist. There is minimal financial aid available at this time. See our S/N Clinics list for more information.