Each uterine horn possesses a cervix. The tissues of and supporting the uterus tear easily when handled during surgery. These supporting tissues also act as the female rabbit's principal fat-storage site, which makes it more difficult than in other species to identify and tie off blood vessels supplying the area. The male rabbit's anatomy is similar to that of other mammals, except that the testicles move freely from the scrotum to the abdomen through an open inguinal canal. The rabbit patient The behavior of rabbits has a strong influence on their suitability as candidates for surgery.
Rabbits are timid and submissive.
Their desire to return to health diminishes with fear or pain. Not uncommonly, rabbits may stop eating, even to the point of starvation, following surgery. Rabbits are fractious and may struggle violently if frightened. Improper restraint can lead to fractured limbs or spine. Sometimes it may be necessary to postpone surgery until a preexisting problem is resolved or until the rabbit is calmer.