01/09/2024
I am a huge advocate for ethically raising rabbits as a sustainable meat source. In my rabbitry, I focus primarily on Creme d'Argents for meat, fur, show, fertilizer, breed preservation, and just pure enjoyment! But there are SO MANY different commercial and mandolin-style breeds recognized by the ARBA (American Rabbit Breeders Association) that are great for meat and dual-purpose production. If you are considering raising rabbits, but aren't sure what breed to get started with, make sure to check out these lists, do your research, and pick your favorite! I have listed beside each breed the range of expected senior weights between bucks and does.
6-Class Breeds (rabbits show in JR/INT/SR classes)
All of these rabbit breeds should be bred to meet the standard of 5lbs between 8-12 weeks old for meat production. This growth is preferred by most home producers because it is dependable and is the most efficient on feed costs.
- New Zealand (9-12lbs)
- Silver Fox (9-12lbs)
- Champagne d'Argent (9-12lbs)
- American Chinchilla (9-12lbs)
- American (9-12lbs)
- Beveren (8-12lbs)
- Cinnamon (8.5-11lbs)
- Satin (8.5-11lbs)
- Creme d'Argent (8-11lbs)
- Blanc de Hotot (8-11lbs)
- Palomino (8-11lbs)
- Argent Brun (8-10.5lbs)
- Californian (8-10.5lbs)
- Giant Angora (9.5-10+lbs)
4-Class Rabbits (rabbits show in JR/SR classes)
Though the max senior weights on these breeds are generally lower than the 6-class breeds, some of these rabbits (such as the American Sable, Silver Martin, Harlequin and Rex) can still easily reach 5lbs by 8-12 weeks old if they are backed by good genetics.
Lower on the list, you have the smaller compact breeds. I like to think of these breeds as the as the "cornish chickens" of the rabbit world. Though small, these rabbits still possess great meat-to-bone ratios. They are easier to house and consume less on an individual basis, but take a bit longer to grow out to butcher weight. They are typically easier for kids to handle due to their smaller size.
- French Angora (7.5-10.5lbs)
- American Sable (7-10lbs)
- Silver Martin (6.5-9.5lbs)
- Harlequin (6.5-9.5lbs)
- Satin Angora (6.5-9.5lbs)
- Rex (7.5-9lbs)
- Lilac (5.5-8lbs)
- Standard Chinchilla (5-7.5lbs)
- Havana (4.5-6.5lbs)
- Florida White (4-6lbs)
- Dutch (3.5-5.5lbs)
- Mini Satin (3.25-4.75lbs)
- Mini Rex (3-4.5lbs)
What do you think of these lists? Do you raise any of these breeds? Have I missed a breed that you feel is a great meat producer? Let me know in the comments!
