Common Misconceptions in Rabbit Farming Management
Common Misconceptions in Rabbit Rearing and Management
Most rabbit breeders are aware that young rabbits are particularly prone to diarrhea and loose stools. However, this condition is not only related to the young rabbits' underdeveloped digestive systems but also significantly influenced by some incorrect feeding practices of the owners.
The primary issues with the young rabbits' digestive systems are as follows:
1. At around one month of age, the beneficial bacteria in their intestines have not fully formed. Consequently, young rabbits have weak abilities to break down cellulose and inhibit common pathogenic bacteria. Under any stress, such as cold stress, nutritional stress after weaning, or psychological discomfort caused by environmental factors, the balance of the intestinal microecology can be disrupted, leading to rapid reproduction of pathogenic bacteria that are commonly found in the intestines. This can result in digestive disorders, bloating, diarrhea, and even death in young rabbits.
2. The activity of digestive enzymes in young rabbits is low, especially in those just weaned. The activity of digestive enzymes can drop to onethird of their preweaning levels. This is because, after weaning, the production of lactose in the body stops, which in turn halts the production of lactic acid. Additionally, the young rabbits' stomach acid secretion is minimal, causing the pH value of their cecum to rise, which reduces the activity of digestive enzymes and leads to decreased digestive power, making them more susceptible to indigestion.
During this period, it is essential for owners to supplement young rabbits with EM probiotics and composite enzyme preparations. This helps to introduce beneficial bacteria and prebiotics into the young rabbits' intestines, enabling the rapid formation of beneficial bacteria and effectively inhibiting the rapid reproduction of common pathogenic bacteria, thus maintaining intestinal health. Furthermore, owners should add protease, composite enzymes (including amylase, lipase, and cellulase), to the young rabbits' feed to aid in the breakdown of large molecular substances into smaller ones, promoting digestion, and reducing the occurrence of indigestion symptoms.
However, a common misconception lies in the fact that many rabbit breeders are unaware of the rabbits' digestive physiology. Concerned about the young rabbits falling ill, they often add antibiotics, sulfonamide drugs, or garlic powder to their feed. Little do they know that these substances, which have杀菌 or inhibitory effects, can be extremely detrimental to young rabbits. While these substances can effectively kill or inhibit pathogenic bacteria in the young rabbits' bodies, they also kill beneficial bacteria and inhibit their reproduction, making it difficult for young rabbits to develop a strong population of beneficial bacteria. Therefore, when young rabbits are given these medications, they are more susceptible to immune system decline and the production of toxins in the intestines, which can trigger diarrhea.
This is a common misconception observed by Oxygen Pet Doctor in rabbit rearing and management. We hope that those who are making these mistakes will correct them promptly, and other rabbit breeders will be cautious to avoid falling into this trap.
