Lunar Rabbitry
should i spay and/or neuter?
This is always the first question I usually get asked by new bun parents. I always recommend spaying and/or neutering your pet bunny. The health benefits outweigh the risks in my opinion. There are always risks associated with any surgery, with anyone. I recommend spaying and/or neutering between the ages of 6 months to 4 years old for Does. Bucks can be neutered as soon as their testicles drop and are visible. Any surgery after 4 years old may bring more complications due to old age.
attitude adjustments
Hormonal behaviors may develop when your pet bunny matures. Spraying, excessive digging and boxing, moody behaviors in does and even mounting your feet and hands can happen once those hormones kick in. Some does will want to be pregnant so bad that they have false pregnancies and even pull fur and build a nest. Bunnies were designed to breed often and quickly. Spaying and neutering will help calm down those instincts and urges. They will be able to relax and be more carefree instead of constantly looking for a mate, resulting in a much better behaved pet bunny, much like the sweet cuddly baby that you brought home.
bonding
Depending on the rabbits personality, spaying and/or neutering is a crucial step in bonding bunnies. If you are wanting more than one bunny in your household to live peacefully and happily together, you will need to get them fixed. They will look to the other bunny as a companion, not a potential mate or threat. Rabbits can and will breed as often as possible. It only takes a few seconds and the deed is done, and they can even get pregnant with two different litters at the same time. it normally results in miscarriages and is very hard on the doe's body and health.
where and how much?
It is VERY important for you to find a good vet who has alot of experience in dealing with rabbits, and has done several of spaying and neutering. Most vets are not familiar with bunnies as they are considered exotic, much less have any good experience with them and you need someone with alot of experience because there is quite a bit that could go wrong. The actual surgery is not so much a problem, as being put under anesthesia is where it gets tricky. We are lucky here in Memphis, TN we have a spay and neuter center that specializes in just these surgeries. Memphis Spay and Neuter is also very affordable, while most vets will charge from $250 and up for surgery, bunnies can be fixed for just $60 and it includes pain medicines as well.