Rabbit neutering (female)
Typical UK price: £120–£300
What is rabbit neutering (female)?
Female rabbit neutering (spaying) is a surgical procedure to remove the ovaries and uterus under general anaesthetic. It is strongly recommended for all female rabbits: uterine cancer affects up to 80% of unspayed does over the age of 4. The procedure is more complex in rabbits than in cats or dogs due to their unique physiology, and should be performed by a vet experienced with exotic species.
Why do prices vary between vets?
- Specialist exotic-pet expertise — rabbit surgery requires more skill and knowledge than cat or dog neutering, and practices with rabbit-experienced vets may charge accordingly
- Anaesthetic risk management — rabbits are sensitive to anaesthesia and require additional monitoring and warming, increasing costs
- Practice location — city practices and specialist exotic centres charge more than general practices
- Post-operative care — the duration of hospitalisation and level of nursing care varies between practices
Frequently asked questions
Why is it so important to neuter female rabbits?
Uterine adenocarcinoma (uterine cancer) affects up to 80% of unspayed female rabbits by the age of 5–6 years. It is one of the most common causes of death in female rabbits. Spaying eliminates this risk entirely. It also prevents false pregnancies and makes bonding with a partner easier.
What age should a female rabbit be neutered?
Most vets recommend spaying at 4–6 months, once the rabbit is sexually mature and large enough for surgery. It can be performed up to any age in healthy rabbits, though anaesthetic risk increases with age. Spaying before 2 years eliminates nearly all risk of uterine cancer.
Is rabbit anaesthesia safe?
Rabbits carry a higher anaesthetic risk than cats or dogs, but in the hands of an experienced rabbit vet with appropriate monitoring, the procedure is considered safe and routine. Choose a practice experienced with rabbits. Do not withhold food the night before — unlike cats and dogs, rabbits should eat right up to their appointment.
CMA Veterinary Market Investigation Order
From September 2026, the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) requires all UK vet practices to publish prices for this procedure on their website. VetPricelist aggregates these published prices so you can compare them in one place.