Age-Specific Feeding Guidelines for Rabbits: Nutritiona

Feeding and Management Techniques for Rabbits at Different Stages of Life

1. Within the first 10 hours of birth, it is crucial for the kits to consume their mother's milk. Subsequently, feed the kits once daily, ideally between 7 and 8 AM. During this period, the keeper must closely monitor the kits' feeding habits and ensure they are adequately nourished. In cases where the mother's milk is insufficient, the keeper should act promptly. If there are other lactating does with abundant milk, the kits can be fostered. Otherwise, goat's milk powder may be used as an alternative. Generally, it is best to keep each lactating doe with her kits, adjusting fosterings or cullings based on the doe's milk production and the kits' growth status.

2. Ensure the bedding in the kits' enclosure is soft, clean, and dry. Maintain the enclosure's temperature between 28 to 31 degrees Celsius.

3. When introducing solid food, adopt the "one milk, one solid" feeding method. This means supplementing the kits' diet with a small amount of rabbit pellets when they are between 16 and 22 days old. The supplementary food must be easily digestible and absorbable to prevent gastrointestinal issues, as the kits' digestive systems are not fully developed and can be prone to problems from slight dietary missteps.

4. At 40 days old, switch to a twiceaday feeding schedule. Feed the kits once in the morning between 6 and 8 AM and once in the evening between 8 and 9 PM with a junior rabbit formula. The amount of feed should be just enough to fill the rabbits to about 80% of their capacity, avoiding overfeeding or underfeeding.

5. As the kits reach 60 to 90 days old, after weaning, their diet becomes more stable. Try a twocomponent feeding method, which includes feeding junior rabbit formula twice a day, as well as offering a small amount of lowmoisture forage to help them gradually adapt to eating grass.

At all stages of growth, the keeper must maintain a clean and dry rabbitry. However, the management of kits and young rabbits requires extra attention, including preventive measures against coccidiosis and the prevention of diseases such as overeating, diarrhea, and bloating.

These are the feeding and management guidelines for rabbits at various life stages provided by Oxygen Pet Doctor. We hope this information is helpful. For more detailed insights into rabbit care, follow Oxygen Pet Doctor for further guidance!