Use of rabbit-appeasing pheromone in mist form helps pet rabbits cope with transport

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate whether rabbit-appeasing pheromone (RAP) use can help pet rabbits cope with transport.

Methods: This controlled experimental study was performed from April 18 through June 12, 2024. Rabbits underwent a 30-minute car trip in a crate sprayed with RAP in mist form or the control. Rabbits were video recorded to assess their behavior. Blood was sampled 2 days before transport, immediately after, 2 days after, and 8 days after to dose corticosterone. Statistical analysis was performed to assess differences between groups.

Results: Twenty-four 5-month-old New Zealand white rabbits (6 castrated males, 6 entire males, and 12 entire females) were divided between RAP (n = 12) and control (12) groups. Video analysis revealed that controls kept ears pushed back longer than RAP-treated rabbits (mean difference, 512.88 seconds; 95% CI, 64.39 to 961.38 seconds), and they also tended to be more agitated (mean difference, 88.71 seconds; 95% CI, -7.62 to 185.05 seconds), whereas RAP-treated rabbits kept ears in erect position longer (mean difference, 544.47 seconds; 95% CI, 111.56 to 977.39 seconds). The RAP group tended to have higher corticosterone levels after transport compared to the controls (mean difference, 33.14 ng/mL; 95% CI, -5.64 to 71.93 ng/mL), but levels became equivalent after 2 and 8 days.

Conclusions: The results indicate that RAP modified the rabbit behavior and neuroendocrine stress response, suggesting a shift toward an adaptive coping strategy in response to transport.

Clinical relevance: Spraying RAP into the transport crate seems to be a promising method in helping pet rabbits cope with this event.

Keywords: adaptation; rabbit; rabbit appeasing pheromone; transport; welfare.