click to enlargeCastration is the surgical removal of the testicles. When a rabbit is castrated, his sexual instincts are reduced and the rabbit becomes sterile. Undesirable behaviors such as urine marking, fighting and general dominance (common in intact male rabbits) are largely eliminated. The objectionable urine odor of the male rabbit is also reduced.

Prior to the surgery your pet will be given a physical examination to help ensure his safety during anesthesia and surgery. Pain medication is then administered to help out with post-surgical discomfort. The operation is performed under general anesthesia (isoflurane gas). Both testicles are surgically removed without the need for any subsequent suture removal. Recovery is generally uneventful, the hospital stay is short, and aftercare is minimal.

Home Care

1. Diet: Feed the normal diet. Call us if your rabbit is not eating normally by the day following surgery or if stools are small and misshapen.
2. Exercise: Keep your rabbit quiet and restrict activity/play for 7 days.

click to enlargeNotify the Doctor if Any of the Following Occur:

• Your rabbit is reluctant to eat
• Stools are small and less frequent
• Your rabbit seems depressed or lethargic
• The incisions bleed or open up
• The surgical site swells