Raising Female Rabbits
The Benefits of Female Rabbits: Why Does Your Bunny’s Gender Matter?
When choosing a pet rabbit, many people focus on breed, size, or color—but have you ever considered the benefits of choosing a female rabbit? While both male and female rabbits make wonderful pets, female rabbits (also called does) have some unique advantages that might make them the perfect choice for your home.
1. Calmer Temperament (Especially if Spayed)
Unspayed female rabbits can be territorial and moody due to their hormones, but once spayed, they often become calmer and more affectionate. They are less prone to aggressive behaviors like biting or spraying urine, which is more common in unneutered males.
2. Less Territory Marking
Male rabbits (bucks) are notorious for marking their territory with urine, especially if they aren’t neutered. While unspayed females can also mark their space, they tend to do so less frequently than males. Once spayed, most female rabbits stop territorial marking altogether, making litter training easier.
3. Stronger Bonding with Other Rabbits
If you plan on having multiple rabbits, a spayed female is often easier to bond with a male rabbit than trying to bond two males. Mixed-gender pairs (with both rabbits fixed) tend to have the most successful long-term relationships, reducing the risk of fights and dominance struggles.
4. Lower Risk of Destructive Behavior
While all rabbits love to chew and dig, unneutered males tend to be more destructive than spayed females. Once spayed, female rabbits are usually less interested in chewing furniture, carpets, and wires—though, of course, providing plenty of chew toys is still essential!
5. No Risk of Testicular Cancer or Spraying Issues
Male rabbits are prone to testicular cancer if left unneutered, and their frequent urine spraying can be unpleasant. A spayed female eliminates both of these concerns. However, it’s worth noting that unspayed females have a high risk of uterine cancer (more on that below), so spaying is essential.
6. Spaying Improves Health and Lifespan
One of the most critical reasons to choose a female rabbit—and to spay her—is to prevent uterine cancer. Up to 80% of unspayed female rabbits develop uterine cancer by the age of five. Spaying not only eliminates this risk but also extends your rabbit’s lifespan, allowing her to live a healthier and happier life.
7. Great for First-Time Rabbit Owners
A spayed female rabbit is often a great choice for beginners due to her more predictable behavior. Without the hormonal mood swings that come with being unspayed, she is more likely to be gentle, affectionate, and easier to litter train.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re adopting your first bunny or adding to your rabbit family, a female rabbit—especially one that’s spayed—can be a fantastic pet. From better bonding and calmer behavior to improved health and longevity, female rabbits offer a range of benefits that make them a great choice for any rabbit lover.
Do you have a female rabbit? Share your experience in the comments!