The gestation period is a critical time for both male and female foxes, following the initial stages of feeding and management during pregnancy. During this phase, the nutritional demands are at their highest. The diet should be fresh, balanced in nutrients, diverse, and appealing to the foxes. It is crucial to avoid moldy feed, as it can be harmful. Some breeders recommend adding 2–3 shredded eggs to the diet to reduce the risk of stillbirths, abortions, and other complications. In the early stages of pregnancy, fetal development is slow, but it accelerates rapidly in the later stages, with visible abdominal sagging around day 30. The energy requirement is approximately 418 kJ (100 kcal) per day, with digestible protein needs being 10g for silver foxes and 11g for Arctic foxes.
Some pregnant foxes may show signs of discomfort such as loss of appetite, vomiting, or refusal to eat. In such cases, it’s important not to panic. Providing easily digestible foods like milk or cooked eggs can help. As long as the foxes consume some food daily, it generally does not interfere with the birthing process.
The environment must remain calm and undisturbed. No vehicles should enter or exit the area, and all construction should be halted. Visitors, strangers, and predators should be kept away to ensure the safety and well-being of the pregnant foxes.
Access to clean, fresh water must be available at all times. Feed should be stored properly to prevent spoilage, and only high-quality feed should be provided.
Fox breeding is a lengthy process, typically lasting about two months. Due to variations in mating timing, foxes can be divided into two groups entering the gestation period. If the litter size is small, introducing unestrus females alongside pregnant ones can help stimulate estrus.
During the birthing period, the nesting area should be cleaned and disinfected five days before the expected birth using methods like fire disinfection. Soft grasses are placed inside, and they are often sun-dried for natural UV disinfection. In colder regions, the grass is compacted to create nests, while in warmer areas, it is kept more loosely.
Before giving birth, foxes may exhibit signs such as nest-building, restlessness, or plucking feathers. A strong maternal instinct may lead them to block the entrance of the den when cold weather approaches. These behaviors signal that the birth is imminent.
Most births occur at night or early in the morning, though some happen during the day. The birthing process usually lasts between 1 to 6 hours, with most taking 2 to 3 hours. After birth, the mother typically removes the placenta, eats it, breaks the umbilical cord, and cleans the newborns.
Newborn foxes begin nursing within hours of birth, and the lactation period lasts about 55 to 60 days. Most mothers care for their young, but some may neglect them due to lack of milk, stillbirths, or other issues. Breeders should check on the litter within 12 to 24 hours after birth to ensure proper care.
If the mother fails to clean the newborns or break the umbilical cord, manual intervention is necessary. If the pup stops breathing, artificial respiration may be required. For mothers who do not pull hair around the teats, manual assistance is needed to encourage nursing. The presence of milk can be determined by observing the pups’ behavior—active, warm, and full bellies indicate sufficient milk.
In cases where the mother is unable to care for all her young, foster mothers or alternative caregivers may be used. This includes using other foxes, or even dogs and cats, though these alternatives have slower growth rates. Artificial incubators and careful monitoring can also help save weak pups, though this method should be used cautiously to avoid disturbing the mother.
Nutritional needs during lactation are similar to those during pregnancy. Milk, goat milk, or milk powder is essential, as they provide easily digestible nutrients. Young foxes are fed according to age-specific guidelines, ensuring proper growth and development.
During the growth phase, which peaks around three months of age, the quality of feed directly affects the future breeding potential of the foxes. Weaning typically occurs around 55-60 days, depending on the mother’s milk supply. Stress from separation should be minimized, and the original feed should be continued for several days to ease the transition.
Young foxes require increasing energy levels as they grow. They should be housed in small groups initially, then moved to individual cages to prevent competition. Proper mineral and vitamin supplementation is vital, especially for fur development.
During hot months, heat stress must be managed, particularly in southern regions. Shade and free access to water are essential. From late August to early September, the reproductive organs of young foxes begin to develop, requiring a higher energy and protein diet.
Overall, maintaining a clean, stable, and nutritious environment is key to successful fox breeding and raising healthy offspring.
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