Here's why:
* Mother rabbits are excellent mothers: They instinctively know how to care for their babies, including providing milk, warmth, and cleaning.
* Interference can be harmful: A mother rabbit can reject her babies if they smell human scent or if she feels disturbed.
* Babies are well-fed: Baby rabbits (kittens) only nurse for a short period each day. They gain most of their nutrition from their mother's milk.
If you notice the following, you may need to intervene (contact a veterinarian for guidance):
* The mother is not tending to the babies: She's neglecting them, ignoring them, or not feeding them.
* Babies are abandoned: The mother has left the nest for more than 24 hours.
* Babies are sick: They are lethargic, have diarrhea, or show signs of illness.
If you need to feed a baby rabbit, follow these steps:
1. Use a specialized formula: Never give cow's milk. It's unsuitable for rabbits. You'll need a commercial formula designed for orphaned rabbits.
2. Warm the formula: Heat the formula to body temperature (around 98.6°F) before feeding.
3. Use a syringe or dropper: Feed the kitten small amounts every few hours.
4. Keep the kitten warm: Provide a warm, safe environment for the kitten.
Important note: This is a brief overview. If you are experiencing an emergency, please contact a veterinarian or a rabbit-savvy rescue organization immediately. They can provide the best guidance for caring for orphaned baby rabbits.