Long-haired rabbits, known for their luxurious fur, are in high demand globally. With more than 100 foreign investors seeking supply from China, the market has seen a sharp increase in prices, with top-grade rabbit hair now selling for 90 yuan per kilogram. The saying goes, “Raising three rabbits can provide a salty and sour meal, while raising ten can make you rich.†These long-haired rabbits, commonly referred to as German Angora rabbits, are prized for their fast growth, high yield, and superior quality of fur. Each rabbit can produce between 1.5 to 3 pounds of fur annually, with an impressive density of about 1,047 hairs per square centimeter.
To enhance fur production, scientists from Jiangsu Academy of Agricultural Sciences have developed feed additives that, when mixed into the diet at 1%, can boost fur yield by up to 25%. These rabbits thrive in clean, dry environments and are sensitive to moisture and heat. Proper management includes selecting high-quality breeds, maintaining good feeding practices, implementing effective breeding techniques, and ensuring disease prevention.
Cage farming is ideal for long-haired rabbits, with each cage housing two rabbits. The cages should be well-ventilated, easy to clean, and arranged in multiple layers to maximize space. A typical cage measures 60–70 cm wide, 50–60 cm deep, and 40 cm tall at the front, with the back slightly lower. The bottom grid spacing should be 14–18 cm in the front and 20–25 cm at the back. Male and female rabbits should be housed separately, and pregnant females need special nesting areas. The rabbit house must also be secure to prevent rodents from entering.
As herbivores, rabbits require a balanced diet rich in fiber and protein. Daily feed consists of about 1 kg of green fodder and 2 kg of mixed feed, including grasses, vegetables, and root crops. High-quality feed ingredients like soybean meal, bran, and corn help maintain fur quality. Feeding should be consistent, with 3–4 meals per day, especially at night. Clean water must always be available, and feed should be free from contamination or spoilage.
Newborn rabbits should receive colostrum within the first few days, which boosts immunity and helps them expel waste. They begin eating solid food at 15 days old and are weaned at 40–45 days. Young rabbits should be kept in separate cages to avoid stress and ensure proper growth. Nighttime is the most active period for rabbits, so feeding should be adjusted accordingly.
Female rabbits reach sexual maturity at 6–7 months, while males mature at 8–9 months. Breeding ratios should be maintained at 1:10, and inbreeding must be avoided to preserve genetic quality. Selecting strong, healthy rabbits with high fur yield is essential. Mating stimulation is crucial for ovulation, and if a female refuses to mate, it may be due to pregnancy.
Pregnant females should be handled carefully, avoiding stress and excessive handling. During the last week of pregnancy, the nest area should be cleaned and prepared. After birth, the mother needs extra nutrients, and excess kits can be placed with foster mothers. Nanny rabbits should be selected based on recent birthing and should be introduced gradually to avoid rejection.
Fur harvesting typically begins at 3 months of age, with grading based on length, color, and quality. Combing and shearing should be done regularly, with care taken not to damage the skin. In rainy seasons, ash can be used to control humidity, and disinfectants like Lysol or caustic soda should be used to keep the environment clean. Preventative treatments, such as chloroquine, can help guard against coccidiosis.
For hair removal, methods like combing, cutting, or using cyclophosphamide can be applied. Some traditional remedies include applying alcohol mixtures or vitamin B12 injections to stimulate regrowth. The process is quick and effective, increasing fur yield by up to 20%.
Regular health checks are vital, observing the rabbit’s behavior, appetite, and feces for signs of illness. Common diseases like rabbit plague, caused by lice, require prompt treatment with antiparasitic solutions or herbal remedies. Waste should be removed promptly and composted for fertilizer use.
By following these practices, rabbit farmers can ensure healthy, high-yield fur production while maintaining the welfare of their animals.
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