Buzz
Baby rabbits are undeniably adorable companions, especially in their infancy. While the arrival of baby rabbits may sometimes be planned, it often catches owners off guard, particularly if the sex of their rabbits was uncertain. Properly preparing for the advent of baby rabbits involves ensuring they have a cozy nest box, monitoring them closely after birth, hand-feeding them if necessary, and safeguarding them from potential dangers. While caring for baby rabbits can pose its challenges, witnessing their healthy development into adulthood is immensely rewarding.
Steps
Setting Up a Nest Box for Your Baby Rabbits
Obtain a suitable nest box for your expectant doe. Approximately 28 days after mating, your doe will begin nesting in anticipation of the arrival of the baby rabbits. Various materials can be used for the nest box, such as a shoebox, to provide a comfortable space for the doe to nestle in.
Opt for a commercial nest box if your rabbit resides in a wire cage. Whether it's constructed from metal, wood, or wire, ensure your doe has a suitable nest box. Wood or wire options are preferable in colder climates, while metal ones are more suitable for warmer regions. Aim for dimensions around 18 inches (45.7 cm) long, 10 inches (25.4 cm) wide, and 6–10 inches (15.2–25.4 cm) tall for the nest box.
Layer 1-2 inches of pine or cedar shavings at the base of the nest box. Whether purchased or homemade, your pregnant doe requires a soft bedding material. Adjust the amount of shavings based on seasonal temperatures, with less in summer and more in winter. Use a tape measure or the second knuckle of your finger to gauge the appropriate quantity. If opting for cedar shavings, ensure they are kiln-dried to neutralize any harmful resins.
Fill the remainder of the nest box with straw. This insulates the baby bunnies after birth and may also serve as a dietary supplement for the doe. Loosely pack the straw to allow space for the doe to create burrowing areas for her young. Consider placing field or timothy hay at the top of the nest box, as it aids in digestion and is gentler on the doe's system.
Construct a small burrow at the top of the nest box. This signals to the pregnant doe that the box is intended for nesting purposes and provides an initial burrowing point for her. Use your fist to create a burrow roughly the size of your hand, serving as a starting point for the doe to expand upon.
Position the nest box within the doe's enclosure. Regular monitoring of the baby bunnies is necessary, so ensure easy access to the nest box. Allow the doe time to acclimate to the presence of the box, as initial confusion is common. Eventually, she will investigate and utilize the nest box accordingly.
Monitoring Baby Rabbits After Birth
Watch for signs of labor. Your doe will have incorporated her own fur into the nest material. Movement beneath the fur indicates the commencement of birth.
Remove any stillborn baby rabbits promptly. Immediate removal is crucial to prevent decomposition, and to prevent potential cannibalism by the mother.
Allow the doe to consume any placentas left in the nest box. Placentas provide essential hormones for the doe's lactation. If the doe neglects the placentas, remove them, especially if she has commenced nursing.
Determine the number of baby rabbits. Rabbit litters typically range from 1 to 15 offspring. Not all may survive, particularly those struggling to feed. If necessary, consider supplementing their diet, but handle them sparingly to avoid triggering the mother's defensive instincts.
Allow the doe to nurse her offspring. Does generally nurse their young once or twice daily, which should suffice for their nutritional needs unless issues arise.
Assess the well-being of the baby rabbits. Well-fed baby rabbits exhibit warm, slightly distended bellies. Malnourished signs include sunken stomachs, dehydration wrinkles, and overall weakness. Ensure they remain warm in the nesting box for proper digestion.
Check the doe for lactation indicators. Swollen nipples and bare fur around the teats are signs of lactation. Gently press near the teats to confirm milk production.
Consult a vet promptly if lactation issues arise. Veterinarians can administer oxytocin to stimulate milk production, but effectiveness diminishes after 48 hours. If the doe fails to nurse for an extended period, seek professional assistance.
Feeding Baby Rabbits
Provide nourishment for undernourished baby rabbits. Options include Kitten Milk Replacer (KMR) or goat milk, both serving as suitable substitutes for rabbit milk. To enhance calorie intake, incorporate one tablespoon of unsweetened heavy whipping cream into the formula.
Gradually increase formula intake weekly. Feedings should occur twice daily, with weaning typically between 6-8 weeks. Adjust formula amounts according to the following guidelines:
- Newborn to 1 week: 4-5 cc formula
- 1-2 weeks: 10-15 cc formula
- 2-3 weeks: 15-30 cc formula
- 3-6 weeks: 30 cc formula
Utilize a syringe for feeding. Measure formula accurately and allow the baby rabbit to suckle gently from the syringe. Position the bunny on its back during feeding, avoiding excessive pressure on the syringe to prevent suffocation.
Ensure the baby rabbit eliminates waste before feeding. Stimulate urination and defecation using a warm cloth or cotton ball on the bunny's genitals. Monitor stool consistency, which should be soft, green, and yellow. Brown, gritty urine may indicate severe dehydration, necessitating immediate veterinary attention.
Commence weaning between 6-8 weeks based on strength and weight. Introduce hay and pellets, withholding fruits and vegetables for now. Offer these items within reach of curious and ready baby bunnies.
Ensuring the Safety of Baby Rabbits
Remove the father from the cage promptly. While not directly harmful, the father may attempt to breed the doe shortly after birth and may also target female offspring upon maturity.
Maintain trimmed nails for your doe. Long nails pose a risk of accidental injury to the baby bunnies, so ensure thorough nail clipping before birth.
Monitor the mother's behavior closely. Some young does may exhibit nervousness and confusion post-birth, potentially leading to abandonment of offspring. If observed, seek veterinary assistance promptly.
Understand that mother rabbits may temporarily avoid their babies when not nursing. This behavior serves to protect the nest from potential predators and is a common instinct among new mothers.
Avoid handling the newborns initially. Although uncommon, does may resort to consuming their offspring if they perceive a threat. While domesticated rabbits are less likely to exhibit this behavior, refrain from handling the babies for the first 24 hours, provided they appear healthy and active.
Schedule a veterinary check-up for the mother and babies after weaning. It's advisable to have them examined by a veterinarian once the baby rabbits are weaned. If feasible, bring along the father to facilitate bonding between the parents.
