Can I Clone My Rabbit?

Can I Clone My Rabbit

For many, rabbits are not just pets, they’re beloved companions, family members and sometimes even champions in the show ring. At Gemini Genetics, we understand the unique bond you share with your rabbit and the heartache that comes with saying goodbye. While our core services focus on cats, dogs and horses, the science of genetic preservation can be applied to rabbits too, offering hope for those who want to preserve their special legacy.

What Is Genetic Preservation?

Genetic preservation is the process of collecting and safeguarding a sample of your rabbit’s DNA from a small skin sample so that it can be stored for potential future pet cloning. Once your rabbit’s samples have been preserved with us, they can be stored indefinitely in our liquid nitrogen tanks. Rabbits unfortunately cannot currently be cloned by our partner company ViaGen Pets & Equine, but preserving your rabbit’s genetics means that someday, should technology and demand align, it may be possible to clone your rabbit.

How Does The Process Work?

While Gemini Genetics currently specialises in cats, dogs and horses, the principles for rabbits are similar:

1. Sample collection: A small skin sample is collected post-mortem by a veterinary professional, up until 5 days after their passing.
2. Safe Transport: The sample must be kept chilled (not frozen) and delivered to the laboratory within the 5 days following your rabbit’s passing to provide the best chance of viability of the cells in your rabbit’s samples.
3. Laboratory Preservation: Your rabbit’s samples are processed and preserved in our state-of-the-art laboratory.
4. Liquid Nitrogen Storage: The processed samples are stored safely in cryovials located in our secure liquid nitrogen tanks, where they can remain indefinitely. A monthly storage fee is applicable. Further information on costs can be found on our price list page.

For sample collection, your veterinarian can follow the same instructions as those for cats and dogs. You can find this information here