Neutering not only prevents breeding and unwanted litters, but also prevents diseases linked to reproductive organs and helps to promote harmonious relationships between bonded pairs.

Around 90% of unneutered female rabbits develop cancer of the womb by the age of five.

Neutering is the act of removing reproductive organs. This is known as spaying for females and castrating for males.

Female rabbits are usually spayed around four to five months old, although males can be castrated as early as 10 to 12 weeks.

Take care with male rabbits, they can remain fertile for up to 4-6 weeks post castration.

Female rabbits reach sexual maturity between 4-6 months of age. Male rabbits reach sexual maturity within a couple of days of their testicles descending (around 3 months of age).

If your rabbit starts to follow you around, circling your feet, they may be just trying to get your attention – ‘I’m here, let’s play!’ – but they could also be courting you, particularly if this behaviour is accompanied by honking or oinking noises. If your rabbit hasn’t yet been neutered, now is the time.