spaying age question

Question
I have a 5-year old mini rex. On a recent trip to the vet, she brought up the subject of having her spayed to prevent reproductive cancers. Unfortunately, when my family first got her we were not aware of the high risk of these types of cancers in unaltered females.

The one thing I am a little worried about is her age. While the vet (rabbit and other small pet specialist at animal hospital) wouldn't have brought it up if it was definitely a bad idea, I am concerned that she might be more at risk for complications based on her age. On the one hand, if the the surgery goes well her chances of living a longer, healthier life increase, but on the other hand I have no real idea what the success rate is in rabbits her age. The vet says she is quite healthy if that makes a difference.

I will be discussing this with the vet again, but I was just wondering if you could give me your opinion on the risks and benefits to having her spayed, based on your experience. I just want to do what's best for my fuzzy little friend.

Answer
Hi Cait

We have never had a problem spaying rabbits that are 5 years old.  It sounds as though your vet has a lot of experience and that is the most important thing to consider.  The health benefits of spaying far outweigh the risks.  I believe it is something  like 80 percent of rabbits that are not spayed will develop these cancers before they are 5.  Chances are she may already have cancer and he sooner you get her spayed the better.

Good luck

Pam