Rabbits - Procedural Refinements

Evidence-based refinements for procedures with rabbits

Procedural Refinements

1. Rabbit Injections and Blood Collection

Refinements:

  • Use smaller needles and minimally invasive techniques

  • Consider using trained personnel to reduce stress and pain during procedures

  • Implement analgesia and anesthesia protocols to minimize discomfort

  • Avoid jugular vein when possible, the peripheral veins safer

2. Rabbit Surgical Procedures

Refinements:

  • Employ less invasive surgical techniques when possible, such as laparoscopic surgery

  • Ensure proper anesthesia and analgesia, and use precise surgical skills to minimize trauma

  • Post-operative care should include pain management and monitoring for complications

3. Rabbit Handling and Restraint

Refinements:

  • Train staff to handle rabbits gently and with minimal stress as rabbits are uniquely prone to back and leg injuries and must be handled properly

  • Use proper restraint techniques and provide training to avoid unnecessary handling. Snuggles, towel wraps, restraint devices, VAB Lines etc.

4. Rabbit Dermal and Ocular Testing

Refinements:

  • Consider the smallest area possible

  • Provide appropriate analgesia

  • Appropriate training to recognize pain/discomfort

5. Rabbit Humane Anesthesia

Refinements:

  • Special considerations on dosing, cardiovascular or respiratory impact

Related Refinements

1. Rabbit Housing and Enrichment

Refinements:

  • Provide rabbits with appropriate social interaction, environmental enrichment, and space to move around. This can reduce stress and improve their overall well-being

  • Encourage Pens and co-housing when appropriate or solitary pen time with care staff

  • Exercise pens for caged rabbits with full contact or protected contact (perforated dividers). In a laboratory setting

See Next

Guinea Pigs