Optimizing Breeding Rabbits: Utilization & Longevity St

Part 1: Enhancing the Productivity of Breeding Rabbits

1. The Utilization Period of Breeding Rabbits

In rural areas, breeding rabbits typically start their reproductive phase at 7 months of age. Rabbits that are first bred usually need to meet certain criteria: female rabbits should be over 7 months old and weigh more than 3.5 kg, while male rabbits should be over 8 months old and weigh at least 3.5 kg. Generally, breeding rabbits reach their peak productivity in their first breeding year, after which their productivity declines by 15% to 20% annually. Therefore, it is advisable to use breeding rabbits for 2 to 3 years.

2. Boosting the Productivity of Breeding Rabbits

To enhance the productivity of breeding rabbits, it is crucial to provide them with an excellent living environment. The rabbit shed should be constructed on high ground, ensuring good ventilation, ample sunlight, cleanliness, dryness, and a quiet atmosphere. Additionally, the owner should regularly clean the shed to maintain hygiene and reduce the risk of rabbits contracting diseases.

3. Breeding Rabbit Management by Season

Spring and autumn offer the most favorable conditions for rabbit breeding, with warm and dry weather and ample sunlight. During these seasons, female rabbits are in good estrus, and male rabbits are highly fertile. However, as spring approaches, temperatures rise, and there is a significant difference between day and night, so it is essential to ensure rabbits are wellprotected from the cold. Owners can give each rabbit a tablet of tetracycline to prevent common spring illnesses like colds and pneumonia. It is also important to control the amount of feed rabbits consume to avoid diarrhea caused by overeating. Spring is when fresh forage grows rapidly, so owners should clean, dry, and store harvested forage properly to keep it green. Autumn is also the time when rabbits shed their fur, and they consume more nutrients. Owners should pay close attention to the nutritional content of the feed and carefully nourish the rabbits to help them regain their healthy and robust condition.

In the summer, high temperatures and rabbits' underdeveloped sweat glands require owners to take effective measures to keep rabbits cool and wellhydrated. It is crucial to maintain the cleanliness of the rabbit shed and avoid feeding rabbits during the hottest part of the day. Feeding should be scheduled in the early morning at 5 am and in the evening at 9 pm. Ensure rabbits have access to plenty of water, and occasionally add a small amount of salt or 0.1% iodine tincture to their drinking water for additional supplementation.

Rabbits are generally hardy in cold weather, but if temperatures drop below 5°C, owners must take appropriate measures to warm the rabbits to prevent them from getting sick due to the cold.

Today, the discussion on breeding rabbit management methods concludes here. In addition to the aforementioned aspects, there are many other important tasks that owners need to address, such as regular vaccinations and shed disinfection. For more information about rabbits, stay tuned for future updates from Oxygen Pet Doctor!