If your rabbit doesn’t already have a living space that’s at least 25–30 in (64–76 cm) x 15 in (38 cm), now is a good time to build or invest in a new one. [2] X Research source Ideally, your doe’s maternity lodging should be at least somewhat private, with as few bright light sources, noisy appliances, or other potentially nerve-wracking distractions in the surrounding area as possible.
You can also offer your doe other comfortable nest-making materials, such as a layer of old rags or paper towels and scraps of shredded newspaper. The nesting materials you put down will also help keep the newborn kits warm, which is critical for their survival. If you aren’t sure what size box to use for your pregnant doe, provide multiple boxes of various sizes so it can choose whichever one it wants. Rabbits that don’t have a dark shelter will feel more distressed since they won’t be able to hide their young.
Maintaining a sanitary environment for delivery is a must, especially if your doe has a tendency to poop in her nesting box. Avoid using disinfectants or other chemical cleaners in wooden and cardboard boxes. These substances are often poisonous to rabbits and could lead to serious respiratory or digestive issues. [4] X Research source
Most female rabbits can become pregnant again within 48-72 hours of giving birth. For this reason, it’s a good idea to keep the buck and doe apart, unless you’re encouraging your rabbits to breed. Not allowing your male and female rabbits to remain close could be stressful for both of them. In the worst-case scenario, it could even lead to anxiety, depression, loss of appetite and other factors that could negatively impact their ability to raise their kits. [7] X Research source
Rabbits love romaine lettuce, bok choy, carrot tops, kohlrabi, cilantro, basil, watercress, and mustard and beet greens. [9] X Research source A good rule of thumb is to give your rabbit 1/4-1/8 cup (16-32 g) of pellets for every 5 pounds (2,300 g) of bodyweight. Avoid excessive feeding since overweight and obese rabbits can have more complications with pregnancy and giving birth. Providing proper nutrition is always a key part of rabbit ownership, but it’s especially important where pregnant females are concerned, as she’ll be eating for up to 12!
You’ll probably notice an increase in the amount of water your doe drinks every day as she begins to lactate.
If your rabbit is being uncooperative while you try to pick it up, try laying a large bath towel over it before trying to pick it up. The darkness will help the rabbit calm down more. Make sure you support your rabbit’s entire body when you pick it up.
If you’re planning on letting your doe play indoors, take a moment to make sure that any and all items that could pose a danger to her are off limits before you turn her loose. This includes things like electrical cords, sharp objects, and anything small enough for her to get choked on. [13] X Research source Daily exercise is essential for pregnant does, as it serves to stimulate blood flow, which in turn carries more vital nutrients to the unborn kits.
Examine each kit closely before removing it. A motionless newborn could just be “chilled,” or suffering from abnormally low body temperature. [15] X Research source The doe will be familiar with your scent, so don’t worry about reaching into the cage to retrieve the unfortunate kits who didn’t make it.
You may want to pile on some additional bedding the keep the kits from coming into direct contact with the water bottle, which will likely be too hot for them. Always keep some type of gentle heat source on standby, even if it’s just a warm towel. This will be especially important if your rabbit gives birth during the winter months.
Keep an eye on the kits for the first few days after they’re born. If they’re being fed regularly, their little tummies will be slightly distended, whereas they’ll look sunken if they’re hungry or malnourished. Be aware that rabbits usually feed their young around dawn and dusk and it’s normal for them to leave their young alone for considerable amounts of time. Sometimes, a new mother can become withdrawn after kindling. She may seem reluctant to interact with her kits, or even ignore them altogether. If this happens, it’s a good idea to make an appointment to have your doe looked at by a qualified veterinarian at your earliest convenience.
You should also sex and separate the male and female offspring after 8 weeks to prevent them from mating. Once the kits have been weaned and are strong enough to move around on their own, you can begin thinking about finding new homes for them. [20] X Research source
