Question about neutering a male Rabbit

Hello, I’m Jewish and I recently adopted a male rabbit. I already have another rabbit, and I’ve learned that male rabbits often can’t live together peacefully unless they’re neutered. I also understand that leaving them intact can lead to serious behavioral issues and increase the risk of certain cancers. I want to make sure I’m caring for my rabbits responsibly while still following halacha. Could you please explain what Jewish law says about neutering in this situation? Are there any permissible options, such as having a non-Jewish veterinarian perform the procedure? Thank you very much for your time and guidance

Shalom!

Thank you for your question!

As a general rule, sterilizing animals is a Torah prohibition. This is derived from the fact that only animals that are able to reproduce may be offered as sacrifices. Even fish are included in the ban. 

It is interesting to note, however, that there is some discussion whether sterilizing female animals is a biblical transgression or a rabbinical one. This is because females are not truly required to reproduce.   

In some cases, one who ignored this halacha and sterilized his animals is required to sell the animal as a penalty.

There are different views on whether the ban on sterilizing animals also applies to non-Jews with most authorities ruling that they are not included in the ban. 

As a matter of halacha, a Jew should not instruct a non-Jewish veterinarian to sterilize a male animal but one may have a non-Jew sterilize a female one.

As one can see, it is forbidden to sterilize your male rabbit

Wishing you well.

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