Raising Changmao rabbits has become a booming industry, as their luxurious fur is in high demand globally. With over 100 foreign investors seeking supply from China, the market for rabbit hair is experiencing a sharp rise in prices. The first-grade domestic product now fetches 90 yuan per kilogram, while second and third grades are priced at 70 and 63 yuan respectively. As the old saying goes, "Three rabbits raised at home can provide enough meat to last a year, while ten rabbits can make you rich." This highlights the economic potential of raising long-haired rabbits.
The German Angora rabbit, also known as the long-haired breed, is widely favored for its high yield and superior quality fur. These rabbits have strong reproductive capabilities, grow quickly, and produce thick, wavy fur with a density of about 1,047 hairs per square centimeter. On average, they grow 1.5 to 2 pounds of fur annually, with some reaching up to 3 pounds. To enhance fur production, farmers often use supplements developed by the Jiangsu Academy of Agricultural Sciences. Adding 1% of the supplement to the diet and feeding adult rabbits 3-4 times daily can increase fur yield by 25%.
Long-haired rabbits require careful management. They should be housed in clean, well-ventilated cages, ideally in elevated areas with good drainage. A typical cage measures 60-70 cm wide, 50-60 cm deep, and 40 cm in front, with spacing between the bars to allow for proper air circulation. Cages can be stacked up to four layers to save space. Male rabbits need separate housing, and pregnant females should be placed in dedicated cages to ensure comfort and hygiene. The environment must remain dry, clean, and free of pests.
These rabbits are herbivores, consuming large amounts of green fodder such as wild grasses, vegetable leaves, and root vegetables. In winter, dried hay and crop residues are commonly used. A balanced compound feed includes grains like corn, barley, and soybean meal, along with minerals and vitamins to support fur growth. Feeding should be regular, with clean water always available. Nighttime feeding is crucial to maintain their health and productivity.
Pups should receive colostrum immediately after birth, which helps prevent diarrhea and boosts immunity. Weaning typically occurs at 40-45 days, and young rabbits must be kept in separate cages to avoid stress. Female rabbits reach sexual maturity at 6-7 months, while males mature at 8-9 months. Breeding ratios should be carefully managed to avoid inbreeding and maintain genetic diversity.
Pregnant does require special care, including a clean environment, adequate nutrition, and minimal handling. During the final week of pregnancy, nesting materials should be provided to ensure comfort. After birth, excess kits can be transferred to foster mothers to ensure all pups receive proper nourishment.
Shearing or combing is done every 10-15 days, depending on the season and fur length. The fur should be stored in a dry place, away from moisture and pests. Proper feeding with protein-rich ingredients like bean cake and bran ensures continuous fur growth.
To stimulate fur regrowth, some farmers use methods such as applying shochu (a type of Japanese alcohol) mixed with ginger juice or administering vitamin B12 injections. Another method involves using cyclophosphamide, which causes hair to shed naturally within a few days, leaving the skin smooth and ready for regrowth.
Health monitoring is essential. Farmers should observe the rabbits’ behavior, appetite, and feces for signs of illness. Common diseases like rabbit plague, caused by lice, can be treated with antiparasitic solutions or traditional Chinese medicine remedies.
Finally, rabbit manure is valuable as organic fertilizer, rich in nitrogen and beneficial for soil enrichment. Proper waste management not only keeps the environment clean but also adds value to the overall farming operation. Raising long-haired rabbits requires attention to detail, but with the right techniques, it can be both profitable and sustainable.
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