Oh my gosh! What IS this!? Is this NORMAL?

[leyley904]

Okay, well my rabbits got into a minor tussle, and I was checking them over for any scratches (there were none). Well, I felt under their belly (they somehow got a scratch there before) and felt something. It was some dry skin behind were there testicles were (neutered). Well, when I lifted them up to look at it, it stretched there skin a tad and it opened up these two... slits? the slits pointed away from their anus on each side. It STUNCK! SO bad! It's probably the worst smell I've ever experienced! It had a dark yellow gunk caked in it, I'm guessing that is the smell. I'm sorry, I know this is disgusting. I noticed it on Beans, then checked Benny to see if it wasn't something out of the ordinary (the slits being there). They both have it, and Benny also has some black gunk. Okay, well here are the questions. What IS that?! Is the gunk normal? I'm assuming the slits are since they both have it. Should I clean it (at the expense of my nose?)
If you have rabbits, and if you check, please... please hold your breath.

[leyley904]

I know this is gross, but I would really appreciate someone easing my mind and telling me it is normal. Or telling me its not, so I can do something about it.

[JD In Van]

I'm going to link the most tasteful site I can but this sounds like the male's scent glands.

http://www.binkybunny.com/Portals/0/...GROOMscent.jpg

House Rabbit Monthly Maintenance Checklist - BinkyBunny.com

These need to be checked and cleaned monthly (You can google image 'Rabbit Scent Glands' for more graphic and detailed pictures).

(the house rabbit society is an AWESOME resource for rabbit foo www.rabbit.org )

[leyley904]

I actually just went and did some more research. Yeah, it sound like there anal/sent glands. I also read its a very sensitive area, and I'm scared I would hurt them. Should I take them to the vet for them to do it?

[JD In Van]

If you're really scared of hurting them you may want to have your vet show you how to do it the first time (that is if your vet is rabbit savvy), just like the first time you clean the anal sac on your guinea pigs. After that though you should incorperate it into your weekly check up/grooming.

[leyley904]

Okay, well I found some really good directions. I just cleaned them. It was really easy, but I swear, I almost passed out from the smell. Its TERRIBLE! Uh, and I have to do that once a month? Torture! But, I will.

[JD In Van]

It won't be so bad if you do it regularly.

The house rabbit folks recommend you check it weekly and clean it as needed.

[leyley904]

Okay, thanks! I will check and clean it as often as I can if it means it won't smell as bad!! (And means they are happy of corse!!)