Do you have to give food a newborn baby rabbit if it is not with its mother?

Newborn rabbits should always be fed by their mothers. However, in the event that a newborn baby rabbit is separated from its mother and is not being cared for by her, it is essential to provide appropriate food to ensure its survival.

Feeding a newborn baby rabbit without its mother requires a great deal of care and specialized knowledge. Here are some key considerations:

1. Timing: Newborn baby rabbits need to be fed every 2-3 hours, around the clock. This is because their digestive system is still developing, and they cannot store a lot of food at a time.

2. Formula: You will need to provide the baby rabbit with a specialized rabbit formula. This formula should be specifically designed for young rabbits and provide the necessary nutrients for their growth and development. Goat milk or other types of milk are not suitable as they can cause digestive issues in rabbits.

3. Feeding Method: To feed a newborn baby rabbit, you will need a syringe or a small dropper. Fill the syringe or dropper with the formula and gently insert it into the rabbit's mouth. Do not force the formula into the rabbit's mouth, and be careful not to hurt the baby. Allow the rabbit to suck the formula slowly.

4. Temperature: The formula should be warmed to approximately 100 degrees Fahrenheit (38 degrees Celsius) before feeding it to the baby rabbit. This mimics the body temperature of the mother rabbit and ensures the formula is comfortable for the baby.

5. Amount of Formula: The amount of formula you provide will depend on the age and size of the baby rabbit. As a general guideline, you can feed the baby rabbit about 1-2 milliliters of formula per feeding for the first few days of life. Increase the amount gradually as the baby grows.

6. Additional Considerations:

- Keep the baby rabbit warm in a clean and comfortable environment.

- Provide the baby rabbit with access to plenty of clean, fresh water as they begin to explore solid foods.

- Gradually introduce solid foods such as hay and fresh vegetables as the baby rabbit grows and develops.

It is important to note that providing care and nutrition to a newborn baby rabbit without its mother is a specialized and challenging task. If possible, it is best to seek the advice and assistance of a veterinarian or experienced animal rehabilitator who can provide proper guidance and care.