Tuesday, May 29, 2012

Getting Ready For Rabbit Breeding

By Alan Stables


Rabbit breeding is not really a complicated endeavor, but it requires you to buy the right equipment and supplies. For instance, you will need some specific supplies before the doe gives birth, for the moment when you get the newborn kits, and for the period when they will be growing up.

You should keep in mind that rabbits should have enough space to move around outside the nest and be close to food and water. The breed of rabbit and the number of kits will basically dictate the size of the cage that you should try to find. The doe tend to spend a considerable amount of time away from the nest and require some space to roam.

It is very important to replicate how rabbits usually raise litters in the wild, usually in holes underground or similar tight spaces. You can use a nesting box that is a tight fit for the doe and her kits. The doe needs nesting material, such as clean straw. She will also use her own downy fur. Add newspaper at the bottom of the box to keep the wooden surface clean.

You will need a calendar, sterile lube should kits get stuck, vanilla extract as well as sterile eye drops to help kits who are late in opening up their eyes. If you get litters during the winter and some need to be pulled out and inspected, be sure that you have a heat lamp so that they keep their warmth.

Otherwise, they will be perfectly fine on their own. The vanilla extract is for fostering kits out to other does. Placing a small amount on the foster mother's nose will dull her sense of smell enough to accept new kits.

Some farmers start tattooing kits as soon as they are 4 weeks old. Others recommend waiting after eight weeks. You may want to read a bit about the issue and decide on what you believe is the best approach. The idea behind tattooing is to make sure that you keep track of litters.

You may want to ask someone experienced to teach you the first time. Get a tattooing kit and all the necessary supplies that are needed.

Being prepared for anything could mean the difference between life and death for some of your kits, so be sure that you have gathered all of these supplies before you begin rabbit breeding.




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