How to Raise Domestic Rabbits

Though many Americans think of pets as cats or dogs, others recognize the potential in less traditional pets, such as rabbits. Indeed, rabbits can be seen throughout the U.S. in the wild, but are also pets to many people. Reasons range from enjoyment and companionship to meat and fur. Some people raise one rabbit at a time while others farm them by the hundreds. Regardless of what purpose you have for raising rabbits, it's important to know the basics about domestic rabbit-raising.

Things You'll Need

  • Rabbit cage
  • Sitting board for large breeds
  • Feed dish
  • Rabbit pellets
  • Alfalfa hay
  • Water bottle or dish
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Instructions

    • 1

      Pick a breed of rabbit to raise based on coloration, temperament and size. Domestic rabbits come in dwarf, small, medium, meat and giant varieties. Each type has its own space and food requirements. Your choice will depend on your reasons for raising rabbits as well as how much time and money you can devote to feeding and cleaning up after them.

    • 2

      Choose a cage that is the right size for your rabbit. An adult rabbit will need 0.75 square feet of ground space per pound. For example, a 10-pound rabbit will require at least 7.5 square feet of ground space. The cages should always be 18 inches high or taller. The cages should be made of wire or fencing, not plastic or wood, which a rabbit will chew through. Use galvanized wire mesh bottoms with a tray underneath so that the droppings can fall through and won't build up or collect in the fur of the rabbits. Place a sitting board in the cage for larger breeds so that they don't get sore hocks (rabbit equivalent of human ankles).

    • 3

      Select feed from a reputable source. A reputable feed salesman or company will know the dietary requirements of rabbits. Dwarf breeds will eat about one-half cup of pellets a day; smalls will eat about two-thirds cup; mediums will eat about 1 cup; meat rabbits will eat about 1 1/4 cups and giants will eat about 2 cups a day. As a rule, rabbits will eat about 1 oz. of food per pound of weight. Supplement their diets with a bit of alfalfa hay for added roughage once every few meals.

    • 4

      Place a water container of some sort in the cage. While many rabbits will be content with bottle feeders, many breeders have reported certain breeds and individuals having problems or not understanding how they work. In this case, you should use a heavy ceramic or metal bowl or water dish. The heavier the dish, the less likely a messy spill will occur. Make sure your rabbits always have a fresh supply of water, especially in warmer weather.

    • 5

      Separate bucks and does (males and females) by 12 weeks of age if raising multiple rabbits. This will prevent accidental breeding and will keep you from having to find homes and feed for a litter of kits.

    • 6

      Take your rabbits to the vet at least once a year or more often if the doctor recommends it. This is especially important if you plan on showing or breeding your bunny. Rabbits are prone to infectious diseases and should be treated by a professional immediately if they become sick.