Causes of Litter Rabbit Mortality: Analysis & Preventio

Section 1: Causes of Mass Neonatal Rabbit Mortality

After the gestation period of the mother rabbit exceeds 20 days, the fetus enters a rapid growth phase. The vast majority of neonatal rabbits reach their full weight within the last 10 days of the mother's pregnancy. However, as the fetus grows, the metabolic waste products produced within it also increase. These toxic substances are typically transferred to the mother rabbit through the placenta, where they are then excreted from her body. If the mother rabbit already produces a significant amount of toxic substances through her metabolism, and additional toxins are transferred from the neonatal rabbits, the mother may struggle to expel all of them, leading to a buildup of toxins within her body. By the time the rabbit is ready to give birth, she may suffer from chronic poisoning, resulting in poor spirits and reduced appetite before labor. Postpartum, the mother rabbit's milk may also contain residual toxins. If the neonatal rabbits consume this toxic milk, it can lead to the death of the entire litter, a condition known as lactogenic poisoning, which is more prevalent during winter months.

Section 2: Preventive Measures Against Mass Neonatal Rabbit Mortality

To prevent lactogenic poisoning, it is recommended that the owner administer a 10% glucose solution and supplement vitamin C to the pregnant mother rabbit during the time she is being shaved before giving birth. This involves preparing 100ml of a 10% glucose solution daily for the mother rabbit to consume, along with a 2ml vitamin C supplement. This regimen should be continued for 5 to 6 days. This not only provides the mother rabbit with essential nutrients but also aids in her detoxification process.

It is also important to differentiate between lactogenic poisoning and jaundice, as some owners may confuse the two. Neonatal rabbits suffering from lactogenic poisoning typically die 3 to 4 days after birth, with no signs of dirtiness or yellowing. In contrast, rabbits with jaundice often exhibit symptoms such as yellow urine, diarrhea, and the passage of yellow, loose stools, leading to death 2 to 3 days after the onset of symptoms, usually around 7 to 8 days after birth.

This concludes the analysis by Oxygen Pet Doctor on the causes and preventive measures for mass neonatal rabbit mortality. We hope this information will be helpful to you, reducing the occurrence of such tragic situations.