16/01/2022
Rabbits have a high reproductive rate compared to other livestock. They become sexually mature within a few months of birth and have relatively short pregnancies. They produce large litters and are unique in that they can be rebred immediately after kindling (giving birth).
WHAT ARE YOUR CONSIDERATIONS BEFORE BREEDING YOUR RABBITS?
1. AGE
Different breeds of rabbits reach sexual maturity at different ages. The smaller breeds become sexually mature earlier than the larger breeds. Small breeds (such as the Polish) can be bred at 4 to 5 months of age. Medium breeds (for example New Zealands and Californians) become sexually mature at 6 to 7 months of age. The giant breeds (such as the Flemish Giant) should be at least 7 months of age when bred. The females of all rabbit breeds reach sexual maturity earlier than the males. This means that does can be put into production before bucks of a similar age.
2. REDDISH/PURPLE V***A
When does become receptive to mating, they will usually show signs of being in heat. They may act restless, rub their chins on feed and water containers or other equipment, and show a desire to join other rabbits. The v***a (external ge***al organ of the female) of does that are ready to mate is slightly swollen, moist and a reddish, purplish color. A small, dry, pale (whitish) v***a means that the doe is not ready to breed. The doe may also ”present herself,” and lie on her stomach or lift her tail when touched, if she is in heat.
3. IN GOOD HEALTH
Before any mating attempts, examine both the buck and doe to be sure they are in good condition and free of disease and injury.
4. TERRITORY
Always take a doe to the buck’s cage for mating. Does are territorial, and another animal being placed in her cage may cause her to become defensive. Also, if a buck is placed in a strange cage, he may spend a long time sniffing around the cage before breeding the doe. When a doe that is ready for mating is placed with an active, experienced buck, mating should occur almost immediately.
5. SURE HIT
At the completion of the mating act, the buck will usually fall over backwards or on his side.
Some rabbit raisers allow the buck to mate with the doe twice before returning the doe to her cage. Others prefer to take the doe back to the same buck for a second mating 8 to 12 hours after the first mating.
6. RECORD
Be sure to record the date of all matings so that you prepare for kindling (such as placing a nest box in the doe’s cage) at the proper time.
