Post neuter care- 7 month old rabbit

Question
Hello Dana!  I just had my 7-month old male bunny neutered today.  When I picked him up, the vet technician mentioned that he might lick his wound a little, but to make sure he doesn't do it "too much," otherwise I'd have to bring him back for an E-collar.

I have two questions: 1) This is my first bunny (not to mention my first pet) so I'm not sure what constitutes "too much" licking... Since we got home he's licked the area 3 times (in about 4 hours), but he stops right away when I gently push his head away. About how often or how many times would be considered "too much?"

Also, 2) I'm planning to be home most of the day tomorrow so I can keep an eye on him, but my husband and I are going to our family's house for about 4 hours tomorrow night... Would it be okay for us to leave him alone for that amount of time?  I'm REALLY worried that he might lick his incision/wounds again!  The vet used subcuticular sutures and surgical glue, so maybe I'm just worrying too much... But should I stay home tomorrow night just in case?  How can I make sure he doesn't lick the area?

Any info would be greatly appreciated! Thanks so much!


Answer
Dear Janelle,

Sorry for the delay. We had a big rabbit rescue event this weekend, and been preparing all week!  :(
It was good, though!

Excessive licking would be enough to cut through the sutures.  It doesn't sound as if he was really worrying at them too much, and I suspect by now he's healing up just fine.

Please let me know if you have any other questions, and I promise to answer more quickly!

Dana