Single oral dose of gabapentin reduces vigilance and increases play behavior without changing mobility in New Zealand white rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus)

Objective: To evaluate rabbit behavioral responses and activity after gabapentin administration.

Methods: In this study, 5 intact female and 3 intact male New Zealand white rabbits aged 8 to 12 months were administered a single oral 25-mg/kg dose of gabapentin. This study was conducted from December 2020 to February 2021. Effects on individual behavior, posture, and motor activity were evaluated with ANY-maze software (video tracking system) and ethograms. Rabbits were assessed 2 hours after gabapentin administration. Rabbits were acclimated to the assessment pen for 3 days prior to testing, and baseline measurements (control) were assessed 1 day prior to the first gabapentin administration. Treatment was performed 3 times daily, with each rabbit given gabapentin once a day for morning, midday, and late afternoon doses. Treatments were repeated with a 1-week interval period in between until all rabbits had received dosing at all 3 time periods. Data were analyzed as continuous with a linear mixed model.

Results: There was a significant increase in frolicking behavior and significant decrease in observing behavior between baseline and after gabapentin administration. There was no significant change in other rabbit behaviors, postures, or motor patterns.

Conclusions: Results indicated that oral gabapentin at 25 mg/kg increased play (frolicking) and decreased vigilance (observing) behaviors without significantly affecting motor patterns, suggesting that this dose reduced stress-associated behaviors without causing excessive sedation.

Clinical relevance: Oral gabapentin appears to reduce fear and anxiety in rabbits in a controlled environment. This shows promise for its ability to reduce stress with veterinary visits, transport, and other stressful events.