Reasons for Rabbits Shivering and Breathing Rapidly in

Winter Care Requirements for Rabbits

1. Prioritize保暖 and insulation. During the chilly winter months, it is imperative for rabbit farmers to ensure their pens are wellprotected against the cold. This is the fundamental requirement for winter rabbit husbandry. Depending on the temperature, appropriate insulation measures should be taken. When the weather is cold but clear, it's advisable to add extra insulating bedding to the rabbit cages. Take advantage of sunny days to open the windows for ventilation, but remember to close them securely at night. Always stay updated with weather forecasts and reinforce insulation before the arrival of cold air or a cold snap. Surrounding the pen with straw can help shield it from the chill.

2. Maintain a clean and dry environment in the rabbit pen. Excessive humidity can be detrimental to the rabbits' growth, health, and fur quality, especially during the winter. It is crucial for owners to regularly clean the pen and promptly remove droppings and waste. Keeping the pen dry and hygienic is essential for the rabbits' comfort and safety throughout the harsh winter.

3. Manage the rabbits' diet meticulously. The cold temperatures in winter can lead rabbits to burn more calories and energy. Therefore, during the winter, it's important for owners to increase the rabbits' daily feed intake by about onethird, particularly by providing highenergy feed. Additionally, if fresh forage is scarce in winter, owners should supplement the diet with carrots, pumpkins, and other green feeds to meet the rabbits' nutritional needs, especially for vitamins.

4. Prevent gastrointestinal disorders in rabbits. In addition to adding insulating bedding to the pens for warmth, it's vital to frequently change the bedding to keep it dry. Ensure that the water provided to the rabbits in winter is warm, and for cold feeds, it's best to soak them in warm water before feeding to avoid triggering gastrointestinal issues in the rabbits.

These are the key points summarized by Oxygen Pet Doctor for winter rabbit care. Ensuring adequate warmth and insulation is the most basic requirement, but other related aspects should not be overlooked. To help rabbits thrive through the winter, owners must provide them with meticulous and compassionate care.