Rabbit Medicine and Surgery Q&A 03

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Question	Answer		Article
What are these structures in the inguinal region?	These are the paired, pouch-like inguinal scent glands. It is normal for them to be filled with a dark waxy secretion		Link to Article
Where are similar structures also found in the rabbit, and what is their purpose?	The chin glands, which are specialized submandibular glands opening onto the underside of the chin, and the anal glands. All produce oily secretions containing pheromones that are used for scent marking of the environment and other rabbits. Does mark their kits with chin and inguinal gland secretions and will be hostile to other young that are not their own. Faeces are an important component of territorial marking and are coated with pheromones produced from the anal glands. Studies have shown that in the wild, both bucks and does, when on their own territory and surrounded by their own odour and that of their group, win two-thirds of aggressive encounters with other rabbits.		Link to Article
How do they differ between the sexes?	The size of the glands and the degree of marking are androgen-dependent and related to the level of sexual activity. Bucks mark more frequently than does, and dominant individuals of both sexes mark more frequently than subordinates. In neutered individuals, marking is reduced but not absent.		Link to Article