Are smelly glands near male rabbit testicles normal? How to clean?

Thank you for your question about Luna, and thank you for the photos - they are very helpful. Luna's testicles are of a normal size for a rabbit. This species has very prominent testicles, and the sparse fur that is present on the surface of the scrotum often makes them look even larger. I cannot appreciate any abnormalities on the surfaces of either testicle with the photos that you have attached either. I hope that answers your question, and thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach!

Hello, and thank you for your question! Not all rabbits need to have their scent glands cleaned, as a lot of bunnies do a pretty good job by themselves. However, you can check by gently supporting Willow on his back on your lap, and inspecting on either side of his anus. If there is a large buildup of dark wax, you can use a moistened Q-tip to gently scoop out the wax. I would recommend having a vet demonstrate this to you first if you haven't done it before. In general, I would check his glands about once a month, and only clean them if they are full. I hope this helps, and that Willow is doing well!

Rabbit testicles tend to normally be quite big and hang low. This is usually not a problem, so no need to move the appointment up any earlier unless you see an increase in redness or injury to the area. I hope that helps and all is well with River.

Rabbits do usually have pretty long testicles, and testicular cancer is very uncommon in rabbits. I typically don’t neuter them unless they are spraying urine and the owners want it to stop, or if they will be cohabiting with females. It is definitely not wrong to neuter by any means, but the risk of testicular cancer is low. I hope this helps! Best of luck and thank you for using Pet Coach.

Check his back end for urine scalding or fecal matting/impaction. If the skin is bruised or reddened, have Oliver examined by your veterinarian or a vet experienced in treating rabbits to diagnose infection or injury.

Oh goodness. This sounds like he is very painful and possibly even infected. I would highly encourage you to have him examined by your veterinarian. He may be in need of antibiotics and pain medication. Best of luck and I hope he improves soon. Thank you for using Pet Coach.

Thanks for reaching out about Bunshushu. What you are describing sounds like peri-rectal scent glands. The black tarry accumulation is often the oil from the gland and can be gently cleaned with a warm wet washcloth. The yellowish discharge is probably front the scent gland also, and can be normal. Keep an eye on it. Contact your veterinarian again if you continue to be concerned. Good luck.