Indicators of Rabbit Pregnancy: How to Tell If a Rabbit

How to Determine If a Rabbit is Pregnant

1. The Reunion Method

The reunion method involves allowing the doe to mate again with the buck approximately 56 days after her initial breeding. If the doe refuses to mate and instead jumps around while emitting a "coocoo" sound, this is a strong indication that she is pregnant. However, this method is not always accurate, as some does may reject mating even when they are not pregnant.

2. Fetal Palpation Method

The fetal palpation method is a more reliable way to check if a rabbit is pregnant. As the gestation period progresses, the doe's vulva becomes more swollen, drier, and without discharge. It's typically possible to feel the fetus after about a week of pregnancy. Initially, the embryo is the size of a hazelnut, and by the 12th to 15th day of pregnancy, it grows to the size of a hawthorn. To palpate the fetus, place the doe on a flat surface like a wooden box or table. Support her head with one hand and gently place your other hand under her lower abdomen, using two fingers to evenly feel for the embryo through her abdominal wall. It's crucial not to lift the pregnant doe off the ground while palpating and to be gentle to avoid causing a miscarriage. During the examination, differentiate between the fetus and fecal balls. The fetus is oval, soft, and slightly elastic, while fecal balls are round, harder, and do not move easily. After 25 days of pregnancy, you may feel the fetus moving when holding the doe's abdomen. If you are inexperienced or lack professional guidance, it's best not to attempt palpation to prevent miscarriage.

3. Weight Monitoring Method

Generally, adult does maintain a stable weight. Their daily weight gain is typically only 1530 grams. After pregnancy, the doe's weight increases significantly every 7 days, which is a key indicator of pregnancy.

4. External Observation Method

Pregnant does often experience a rapid increase in appetite and a significant weight gain within the first 12 weeks of pregnancy, leading to a gradual enlargement of their abdomen and more cautious movement. By the second week, the does' breasts become notably larger, and milky discharge may be observed upon pressure. At around the third week, fetal movements can be felt through the abdominal wall. In the final 84 days before delivery, does may start to gather straw and pull out fur from their underbelly to prepare a nest, which are signs that she is preparing for her litter.

These are some of the methods shared by Rabbit Vet Doctor to determine if a rabbit is pregnant. If you, as an owner, are unsure how to identify pregnancy in your rabbit, these methods can serve as a helpful guide.