What is a common blood collection site for rabbits?

The orbital sinus is considered a common blood collection site for rabbits due to its accessibility and the volume of blood that can be safely collected from this location. The orbital sinus is located behind the eye and can be punctured with a needle, allowing for quick and effective blood sampling. This method is often preferred when precise blood analysis is required, as it minimizes stress and potential complications for the animal.

In contrast, while the carotid artery, femoral vein, and ear vein can also be locations for blood collection, they each present challenges. The carotid artery may pose a greater risk of complications due to its proximity to vital structures and the difficulty in accessing it safely. The femoral vein, while valid, can be more challenging to locate and may not provide a large enough sample in all cases. The ear vein is sometimes used as well; however, it can vary in size and accessibility based on the individual rabbit. Therefore, the orbital sinus stands out as a preferred method among these choices for routine blood collection in rabbits.