Rabbits from birth to weaning are commonly referred to as kits, and this stage marks a critical transition from dependency on the mother to self-sufficiency. At birth, these young rabbits are hairless, with underdeveloped physiological functions, limited thermoregulation capabilities, and weak immunity. Despite their fragile state, they grow at an astonishing rate, which makes proper care during this period essential for their survival and healthy development.
First and foremost, it's crucial that kits consume as much colostrum as possible. Colostrum, produced by the mother rabbit in the first 1–3 days after birth, is rich in antibodies, proteins, vitamins, and minerals. It not only supports immune system development but also helps eliminate meconium. The best time for kits to start feeding is within the first six hours of life, as their metabolism is highly active and they can efficiently digest and absorb the nutrients in breast milk. Ensuring early and sufficient milk intake is vital for their growth and survival.
Secondly, maintaining warmth is a top priority. Newborn kits are extremely sensitive to cold due to their lack of fur. The ideal temperature for them is between 30–32°C. To achieve this, nesting areas should be well-insulated. A common method is to use a heat-retaining box, lined with a layer of foam plastic, followed by dry, soft materials like straw or wheat stalks. A layer of warm rabbit fur is then added on top, with the thickness adjusted according to the outside temperature.
Third, cleanliness is key. As kits begin eating solid food, they produce more waste, so the nesting area must be kept clean and dry. Regular changes of bedding and daily cleaning help prevent disease. Additionally, it’s important to discourage the mother rabbit from defecating in the nest, as this can lead to contamination and illness in the young.
Fourth, regular monitoring is essential. Daily checks of each kit’s condition can reveal signs of health issues. Healthy kits have pink skin, a full belly, and rest well. On the other hand, those that appear pale, have wrinkled skin, or show signs of distress may need immediate attention. Any dead kits found during inspections should be removed promptly to maintain hygiene and prevent disease spread.
Fifth, timely weaning is important. Weaning too early can harm the pups' digestive systems, while delaying weaning too long can affect their growth. Generally, weaning occurs between 30 to 40 days of age, depending on the litter's overall strength.
Lastly, disease prevention is a key aspect of raising healthy kits. They are prone to infections such as coccidiosis, especially when they accidentally ingest feces from the mother. Adding medications like chlorsulphamide or olaquindox to their feed during the early stages can help prevent such diseases. If a kit shows symptoms of yellow urine, antibiotics like chloramphenicol eye drops or gentamicin may be administered. After weaning, a rabbit lice vaccine should be given via subcutaneous or intramuscular injection to protect against parasites.
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