Selecting Top-Quality Breeding Rabbits: A Guide

How to Select HighQuality Breeding Rabbits

1. Thoroughly Examine the Rabbit Pedigree and Observe the Rabbit's Characteristics

Highquality breeding rabbits typically come with a complete pedigree record. This document includes details such as the rabbit's and its 35 generations' ear tags, origin, birth date, growth characteristics, and breeding performance. It is crucial to ensure that the rabbit you are purchasing is a descendant of the breed and possesses the typical features of its species. Additionally, judge the rabbit's age based on its weight, teeth, and claws to avoid buying rabbits that are too young or too old.

2. Inspect the Rabbit's Eyes, Nose, Mouth, Ears, Anus, and Reproductive Organs

Pay close attention to the rabbit's eyes, nose, mouth, and ears. Healthy rabbits have bright, moist eyes with minimal discharge. If you notice that a rabbit's eyes appear dull, halfopen, or show signs of pallor or redness, with excessive mucus, it is likely sick and should be avoided. A healthy rabbit's nose should be clean without any runny nose, difficulty breathing, or frequent sneezing. If these symptoms are present, the rabbit is likely sick. Healthy rabbits have normal mucosal color in their mouths, no ulcers or sores, and wellaligned teeth without any deformities. Furthermore, a healthy rabbit's anus should be clean, with no feces or stains around the hair. The rabbit's genital area should be clean, without swelling, scabs, ulcers, or puslike discharges. Generally, gently pressing on the rabbit's genital area can help determine its sex.

3. Pay Attention to the Rabbit's Abdomen

The number of teats on a female rabbit's abdomen should be eight or more; if fewer, it is not suitable for breeding. A male rabbit's testicles should be symmetrical, elastic, and without swelling or ulcers. Avoid selecting rabbits with only one testicle. Stand back from the rabbit and observe if it is hesitant to touch the ground or alternates its legs while walking; this may indicate foot rot or dermatitis, and such rabbits should not be chosen. Additionally, the owner can release the rabbit at a height of 30 centimeters from the ground and observe whether it stands firmly.

4. Avoid Choosing Either Too Thin or Too Fat Breeding Rabbits

The weight of rabbits can generally be assessed visually. Thin rabbits are often malnourished and difficult to care for, while rabbits that are too heavy may have breeding difficulties and are not suitable for breeding.

The above suggestions from Oxygen Pet Doctor aim to assist you in selecting breeding rabbits. In summary, when choosing breeding rabbits, it is essential to pay close attention to the rabbit's various body parts and avoid selecting any with abnormalities to ensure you acquire highquality breeding rabbits.