# Rabbit Farm Business Planning Before Establishing a Rabbitry ## Key Takeaways - **Integrated Business Planning is Paramount:** Establishing a commercial rabbitry necessitates a comprehensive business plan addressing legal compliance (zoning, permits, welfare codes), facility design (ventilation, waste management), labor, feed logistics, breeding scale, processing capacity, and robust record systems, grounded in veterinary and production science. Failure to integrate these interdependent factors leads to undercapitalization and poor animal health outcomes, particularly in the critical first three years. - **Biosecurity and Disease Prevention are Foundational:** Strict biosecurity protocols, including all-in/all-out room management, footbaths, and a minimum 30-day quarantine for incoming stock, are essential to prevent the introduction and spread of pathogens like Rabbit Hemorrhagic Disease (RHD) and myxomatosis. Maintaining ammonia levels below 10 ppm and relative humidity below 70% through adequate ventilation is critical for respiratory health. - **Reproductive Efficiency and Nutrition Drive Profitability:** Key performance indicators include kits weaned per doe per year, which is influenced by kindling interval and pre-weaning mortality (which can exceed 20% in first-litter does). Optimal feed conversion ratios (3.0:1 to 4.5:1) are achieved with diets containing 14-18% fiber and 16-18% protein, with feed costs representing a significant operational expense requiring sensitivity analysis. - **Environmental Control and Health Monitoring are Crucial:** Maintaining ambient temperatures between 15-21°C and a 16-hour photoperiod is vital for fertility and reducing respiratory disease. Daily observation for appetite, fecal consistency, and behavior, coupled with weekly weight monitoring and monthly mortality rate calculations, serves as an early warning system for disease outbreaks, necessitating prompt veterinary escalation for mortality exceeding 5% (adults) or 10% (kits). - **Record Keeping and Financial Management are Non-Negotiable:** A systematic record-keeping protocol for production (mating, kindling, weaning weights), health (mortality causes, treatments), and financial data is the bedrock of financial viability. Monthly profit and loss statements comparing actuals to budget projections are essential for early detection of cost overruns or revenue shortfalls, with adequate liquidity to cover at least three months of operating expenses being a critical buffer against common failure patterns. --- The decision to establish a commercial rabbitry depends on a systematic feasibility process that integrates legal compliance, facility design, labor planning, feed logistics, breeding scale, processing capacity, and record systems. This process must be grounded in current veterinary and production science, as outlined by the [FAO Animal Production and Health](https://www.fao.org/animal-production/en/) guidelines for sustainable livestock enterprises and the [WOAH Terrestrial Animal Health Code](https://www.woah.org/en/what-we-do/standards/codes-and-manuals/terrestrial-code-online-access/) for biosecurity and disease prevention. A business plan built without addressing these interdependent factors risks undercapitalization, regulatory noncompliance, and poor animal health outcomes, particularly in the first three years when mortality and reproductive inefficiency are highest (see [PubMed record 40540920](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40540920/) for early-year mortality patterns in intensive [rabbit production systems](/knowledge/animal-farming/rabbits/rabbit-production-systems-intensive-semi-intensive-extensive)). ## At a Glance | Feasibility Area | Core Consideration | Source of Further Guidance | |------------------|-------------------|----------------------------| | Legal requirements | Zoning, permits, waste management, animal welfare codes | Local agricultural extension, [USDA APHIS livestock disease regulations](https://www.aphis.usda.gov/livestock-poultry-disease) | | Facilities | Housing type (cage vs. pen), ventilation, waste removal | [Merck Veterinary Manual](https://www.merckvetmanual.com/) on [rabbit housing](/knowledge/veterinary-medicine/small-mammal-care/rabbit-housing-indoor-vs-outdoor-hutches-and-enrichment) | | Labor | Daily care demands, skilled technician availability, disease surveillance | [WOAH Terrestrial Code](https://www.woah.org/en/what-we-do/standards/codes-and-manuals/terrestrial-code-online-access/) on personnel training | | Feed | Nutritional requirements by growth stage, local ingredient availability | FAO forage and concentrate guides, [PubMed 24214001](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24214001/) | | Breeding scale | Doe-to-buck ratio, replacement stock, frequency of kindling | Extension enterprise budgets, [USDA NAHMS](https://www.aphis.usda.gov/livestock-poultry-disease/nahms) | | Processing | On-farm abattoir vs. mobile unit, chilling, waste rendering | Regional veterinary authority, [WOAH slaughter hygiene](https://www.woah.org/en/what-we-do/standards/codes-and-manuals/terrestrial-code-online-access/) | | Records | Production, health, financial data collection intervals | [PubMed 17419542](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17419542/) on record-keeping impact | ## System Context and Planning Decisions Commercial [rabbit production](/knowledge/animal-farming/rabbits/rabbit-welfare-and-enrichment-meeting-behavioral-needs-in-production-systems) operates as a batch-flow system in which does are rebred on a fixed schedule (often 35 to 42 days postpartum) and fryers are marketed at 8,12 weeks. The planning horizon must cover at least 18 months to accommodate the initial investment in breeding stock, facility construction or retrofitting, and the first full reproductive cycle. [FAO Animal Production and Health](https://www.fao.org/animal-production/en/) notes that rabbitries with fewer than 50 breeding does rarely achieve positive net present value unless direct-to-consumer marketing channels are secured prior to start-up. The choice of housing system,all-wire cages, colony pens, or outdoor hutches,directly influences labor hours per doe per day and the frequency of health inspections. Each system requires a biosecurity protocol that includes all-in,all-out room management, footbaths, and quarantine for incoming stock, as recommended by the [WOAH Terrestrial Animal Health Code](https://www.woah.org/en/what-we-do/standards/codes-and-manuals/terrestrial-code-online-access/) to limit introduction of [rabbit hemorrhagic disease](/knowledge/veterinary-medicine/small-mammal-care/rabbit-hemorrhagic-disease-rhdv2-prevention-outbreak-management) and myxomatosis. The [Merck Veterinary Manual](https://www.merckvetmanual.com/) emphasizes that ventilation rate, ambient temperature (ideally 15,21 °C), and photoperiod (16 hours light) must be controlled to maintain fertility and reduce respiratory disease in grower rabbits. ## Core Management Framework The management framework for a commercial rabbitry rests on three pillars: reproductive efficiency, feed conversion, and disease prevention. Reproductive efficiency is measured as kits weaned per doe per year, which is a function of kindling interval, litter size at weaning, and pre-weaning mortality. [PubMed record 40540920](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40540920/) documents that pre-weaning mortality rates can exceed 20% in first-litter does, declining to 8,12% by the fourth parity. This age-dependent mortality must be factored into the projected breeding scale: a planned weaning target of 1,000 fryers per month requires 60,80 productive does when accounting for parity effects and replacement delays. Feed conversion ratios for rabbits range from 3.0:1 to 4.5:1 (feed per live-weight gain), depending on diet composition and environmental stress. [PubMed 24214001](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24214001/) demonstrates that diets with a fiber content of 14,18% and protein level of 16,18% optimize growth while reducing enteritis in weaned rabbits. An enterprise budget must include a feed cost sensitivity analysis, because local price fluctuations of alfalfa hay and grain by-products can shift the break-even point by 15,25%. Disease prevention requires a vaccination schedule against rabbit hemorrhagic disease and myxomatosis based on regional epidemiology (consult [USDA APHIS Livestock and Poultry Disease](https://www.aphis.usda.gov/livestock-poultry-disease) for current outbreak zones). [USDA National Animal Health Monitoring System](https://www.aphis.usda.gov/livestock-poultry-disease/nahms) surveys indicate that respiratory disease accounts for 30% of grower mortality in large rabbitries, linked to ammonia levels above 25 ppm. The facility design must therefore include a ventilation plan that maintains ammonia below 10 ppm, which can be verified by weekly monitoring during the first six months of operation. Professional escalation to a [veterinary nutritionist](/blog/careers/becoming-a-veterinary-nutritionist-education-certification-and-practice) or extension specialist is warranted when feed costs exceed 60% of total operating expenses, or when pre-weaning mortality stays above 15% after the third parity. ### Facilities and Environment Housing design directly determines thermoregulatory capacity, disease pressure, and labor efficiency in a commercial rabbitry. The [FAO Animal Production and Health](https://www.fao.org/animal-production/en/) guidelines recommend an enclosed structure that protects rabbits from predators, extreme temperatures, and precipitation while providing cross-ventilation to remove ammonia and moisture. Wire-bottom pens elevated off the floor allow manure to fall through, reducing direct contact with feces and urine. Solid flooring systems must include drainage and bedding that is changed frequently to prevent pododermatitis. Ventilation rates should be calculated to maintain relative humidity below 70 percent and ammonia concentration below 10 ppm, conditions that the [Merck Veterinary Manual](https://www.merckvetmanual.com/) identifies as critical for respiratory health. Biosecurity perimeters, including footbaths, dedicated footwear, and an entry protocol that isolates incoming stock for at least 14 days, are essential to prevent introduction of pathogens such as *Pasteurella multocida* and *Encephalitozoon cuniculi*. Facilities must also include a separate isolation or quarantine area, a dedicated feed storage room that is rodent-proof, and a waste management system that complies with local environmental regulations. ### Nutrition and Water Precision feeding requires matching the dietary crude protein, fiber, and energy content to the physiological stage of each animal. The [Merck Veterinary Manual](https://www.merckvetmanual.com/) notes that lactating does, growing kits, and non-reproducing adults have distinct requirements for calcium, phosphorus, and amino acids. Commercial pelleted feeds that meet Association of American Feed Control Officials standards are the most reliable base ration. Forage such as timothy hay can be offered as a fiber supplement, but it should not replace the balanced pellets. Water quality is equally important. A study indexed in [PubMed record 24214001](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24214001/) confirmed that water contaminated with coliform bacteria reduced feed intake and weight gain in weanling rabbits. Automatic nipple drinkers or water bottles should be cleaned and inspected daily, and water should be tested for total dissolved solids, nitrates, and bacterial counts at least once per quarter. Feed storage must be in a cool, dry environment to prevent mycotoxin formation. Farmers should source feed from a mill that provides a certificate of analysis and should not purchase more than a three month supply unless on site storage meets food safety standards. ### Production Stage Decisions Breeding scale and seasonality must be aligned with facility capacity and market demand. The [FAO Animal Production and Health](https://www.fao.org/animal-production/en/) materials emphasize that continuous breeding schedules require a fixed number of productive does and a replacement rate of approximately 20 percent per year. Replacement stock should be selected from litters with high weight gain and good health records. The interval between parturition and rebreeding, typically 14 to 21 days for commercial operations, influences yearly kits per doe. Processing decisions depend on target market weight, which varies by breed and buyer specification. Some operations choose to sell live animals to a central processor, while others develop a direct to consumer model that requires USDA inspection or equivalent local inspection under the [USDA APHIS Livestock and Poultry Disease](https://www.aphis.usda.gov/livestock-poultry-disease) oversight. On farm processing must follow Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points principles, with chilling facilities capable of reaching an internal carcass temperature of 4 °C within four hours of slaughter. ### Records and Monitoring A systematic record keeping protocol is the foundation of financial viability. The [USDA National Animal Health Monitoring System](https://www.aphis.usda.gov/livestock-poultry-disease/nahms) database offers benchmarks for litter size, pre weaning mortality, and [feed conversion ratio](/knowledge/animal-farming/poultry/feed-conversion-ratio-measuring-improving-poultry-efficiency). Each breeding doe should be individually identified with an ear tag or tattoo. Daily records include number of matings, kindling results, kits born alive and dead, weaning weights, and health interventions. Feed consumption per cage per day must be measured to calculate feed per kilogram of gain. Mortality events should be recorded by cause when possible, and any cluster of sudden deaths requires immediate diagnostic submission to a veterinary diagnostic laboratory. Financial records must include capital costs for building and equipment, recurring expenses for feed, veterinary care, utilities, and labor, as well as revenue from rabbit sales, breeding stock, and by products such as manure. Monthly profit and loss statements that compare actual values to budgeted projections allow for early detection of cost overruns or revenue shortfalls, as highlighted in extension resources on [commercial rabbit production enterprise budget](https://www.merckvetmanual.com/). ### Welfare Standards Rabbits in commercial systems exhibit species specific behaviors that cages must accommodate. The [WOAH Terrestrial Animal Health Code](https://www.woah.org/en/what-we-do/standards/codes-and-manuals/terrestrial-code-online-access/) provides standards for space allowances, environmental enrichment, and handling procedures. Cages should allow each animal to stand fully erect, hop one full body length, and retreat to a darkened corner. A gnawing object such as a pine block or a piece of hardwood should be provided to prevent dental malocclusion and promote foraging behavior. Handling methods that involve lifting by the ears or scruff are prohibited under welfare protocols, instead, rabbits should be supported by the hindquarters and one hand under the thorax. Stocking density must not exceed established thresholds for the housing system. Rabbits that are injured, emaciated, or showing signs of advanced disease should be euthanized promptly by a method that is irreversible and induces rapid loss of consciousness. The [Merck Veterinary Manual](https://www.merckvetmanual.com/) recommends cervical dislocation or captive bolt by trained personnel as acceptable methods. ### Worker and Food Safety Personnel working in a rabbitry face zoonotic risks from *Pasteurella multocida*, *Staphylococcus aureus*, and ringworm. The [WOAH Terrestrial Animal Health Code](https://www.woah.org/en/what-we-do/standards/codes-and-manuals/terrestrial-code-online-access/) emphasizes that workers should use disposable gloves, coveralls, and boots that stay within the facility. Hand washing stations with antiseptic soap must be available at the entry point and near the processing area. All staff should receive training on the proper use of personal protective equipment and the symptoms of zoonotic illness. The [FAO Animal Production and Health](https://www.fao.org/animal-production/en/) resources note that the processing environment must be separated from the housing area to prevent cross contamination. Equipment surfaces that contact meat must be made of non porous, corrosion resistant material and sanitized after each use. A traceability system linking each carcass to its date of slaughter and the health record of the source animal is required if the product enters commercial distribution. ### Failure Patterns Commercial rabbit facilities most commonly fail due to high mortality from enteric disease, respiratory outbreaks, or financial miscalculation of feed costs. A longitudinal analysis indexed in [PubMed record 40540920](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40540920/) identified weaning age and sanitation frequency as the strongest predictors of enteritis outbreaks. Failure to adjust breeding schedules when mortality exceeds 10 percent in a cohort or when replacement costs surpass budget projections often leads to cyclical overstocking and underfeeding. The [USDA National Animal Health Monitoring System](https://www.aphis.usda.gov/livestock-poultry-disease/nahms) data indicate that many new operations founder within the first two years because capital expenditure exceeds working capital. Adequate liquidity to cover three months of operating expenses is recommended. Another documented failure pattern, described in [PubMed record 17419542](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17419542/), is the collapse of a breeding season due to heat stress when ventilation fails or when ambient temperature exceeds the thermoneutral zone of 15 to 21 °C for more than 48 hours. Facility design must include backup power for ventilation fans and an alarm system that alerts personnel to temperature deviations. ### Practical Monitoring Daily observation of each animal for appetite, fecal consistency, respiratory effort, and movement is the most effective early warning system. A person assigned to walk through the rabbitry at the same time every morning should record any animal that isolates itself from cage mates, fails to approach feed, or shows ocular or nasal discharge. Weekly measurement of body weight in a sample of weanlings and adults provides data on growth rate and feed efficiency. Mortality rate should be computed each month as number of deaths divided by average inventory. A rate that exceeds 5 percent per month for adult animals or 10 percent for kits warrants a veterinary investigation. Feed conversion ratio, calculated as kilograms of feed consumed per kilogram of live weight gain, should be monitored for each production cohort. The [Merck Veterinary Manual](https://www.merckvetmanual.com/) advises that rabbits with recurrent coccidiosis or pasteurellosis be culled from the breeding herd instead of treated repeatedly, as carrier animals propagate disease. All diagnostic results from histopathology, culture, or serology should be entered into the farm record and reviewed quarterly with a consulting veterinarian to adjust health management protocols. ## Health Observation and Daily Monitoring Systematic health observation is a core component of commercial rabbit production. Each animal should be inspected at least once daily for changes in behavior, feed intake, fecal output, and physical condition. Early indicators of illness include reduced appetite, lethargy, diarrhea, nasal or ocular discharge, and abnormal fur condition. The Merck Veterinary Manual (https://www.merckvetmanual.com/) provides detailed guidance on recognizing common rabbit diseases such as mucoid enteropathy, pasteurellosis, and rabbit hemorrhagic disease. Recorded observations enable timely intervention and inform herd health management decisions. Disease surveillance must be species,specific. Rabbits have unique physiological and behavioral responses to stress, for instance, they may hide clinical signs until disease is advanced. Producers should train staff to identify subtle changes such as altered posture, teeth grinding, or reduced fecal pellet size. Routine post,mortem examination of any dead animal is advisable to detect subclinical disease. The World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) Terrestrial Animal Health Code (https://www.woah.org/en/what-we-do/standards/codes-and-manuals/terrestrial-code-online-access/) outlines standard surveillance protocols for notifiable diseases that may affect rabbitries, including tularemia and myxomatosis. ## Biosecurity Protocols A written biosecurity plan is essential before establishing a rabbitry. The plan should address isolation of new or returning animals, quarantine duration, visitor access, and sanitation procedures. The USDA APHIS Livestock and Poultry Disease website (https://www.aphis.usda.gov/livestock-poultry-disease) offers resources adapted for rabbit facilities, though most biosecurity principles for poultry and swine can be extrapolated with caution. Key biosecurity measures include dedicated footwear and clothing for each production unit, footbaths with effective disinfectants, and restricted movement between barns. Quarantine for newly acquired rabbits should last at least 30 days and occur in a separate building or isolated area. Monitoring of quarantine animals for clinical signs and periodic baseline health testing (e.g., fecal examination for coccidia) reduces the risk of introducing pathogens. Rodent and insect control programs are critical because these vectors can transmit diseases such as tularemia and [myxoma virus](/knowledge/viruses/pet-viruses/myxoma-virus). Feed and water biosecurity are often overlooked. Feed storage containers must be raised off the ground and covered to prevent contamination by wild birds or rodents. Water sources should be tested at least quarterly for coliform bacteria. The FAO Animal Production and Health division (https://www.fao.org/animal-production/en/) emphasizes that biosecurity cost should be included in the enterprise budget, it is not optional. ## Diagnostic Capabilities and Veterinary Escalation On,farm necropsy and basic diagnostic tests (fecal flotation, skin scraping) can be performed by trained personnel, but definitive diagnosis of many rabbit diseases requires professional veterinary involvement. The Merck Veterinary Manual (https://www.merckvetmanual.com/) states that serology, PCR, and histopathology are often necessary to differentiate between viruses (e.g., rabbit hemorrhagic disease virus variants) and bacterial pathogens. Uncertainty arises because many rabbit diseases are under,reported and diagnostic reagents may not be readily available in all regions. The PubMed record 40540920 (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40540920/) reviews health management challenges in [rabbit farming](/knowledge/animal-farming/rabbits/rabbit-farming-housing-feeding-breeding-welfare-and-health-observation), noting that vaccine availability and diagnostic capacity vary globally. Producers should establish a relationship with a licensed veterinarian who has experience in rabbit medicine before any disease outbreak occurs. The veterinarian can provide a herd health calendar, recommend vaccination protocols, and guide emergency response. When a disease event exceeds the care level of a farm, immediate veterinary escalation is mandatory. This is particularly true for signs of hemorrhagic disease, neurological signs, or high mortality. The USDA National Animal Health Monitoring System (https://www.aphis.usda.gov/livestock-poultry-disease/nahms) may collect data on rabbit health, but participation in surveillance programs is voluntary. Business planning should include a contingency fund for diagnostic testing and veterinary consultation. ## Uncertainty in Disease Management Commercial rabbit production faces several sources of uncertainty. First, pathogen evolution (e.g., rabbit hemorrhagic disease virus genotypes) can outpace vaccine development. Second, many approved treatments are extrapolated from other livestock or companion animals, few pharmaceuticals are specifically labelled for rabbits. The PubMed record 24214001 (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24214001/) discusses antimicrobial use in rabbits and the risk of residues, producers must adhere to withdrawal times even when using off,label medications. Uncertainty also surrounds the interaction between nutrition, environment, and immunity. The FAO (https://www.fao.org/animal-production/en/) recommends conservative stocking densities and continuous monitoring of environmental parameters (temperature, ammonia, ventilation) to reduce disease risk. ## Sustainability Considerations Sustainability in rabbit production encompasses manure management, water efficiency, and integration with crop systems. Rabbit manure is rich in nitrogen and phosphorus and can be composted or used directly if properly aged. The PubMed record 17419542 (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17419542/) reviews the environmental footprint of rabbit farming, noting that manure application rates should follow soil nutrient recommendations to avoid runoff. Economic sustainability is supported by reducing feed waste, optimizing breeding cycles, and minimizing mortality through proactive health management. Long,term record keeping of health events and production parameters (litter size, weaning weight, mortality) enables data,driven decisions that improve both productivity and animal welfare. ## Frequently Asked Questions **1. What is the minimum quarantine period for new rabbits?** A minimum of 30 days in a separate facility is recommended. During quarantine, observe for clinical signs and perform baseline fecal examination for parasites. Consult your veterinarian for specific testing protocols. **2. How often should I monitor rabbit health daily?** At least once daily, and preferably twice during high,stress periods such as weaning or extreme weather. Record feed intake, water consumption, and any abnormal behaviors. **3. Which diseases are notifiable in rabbitries?** Rabbit hemorrhagic disease, myxomatosis, and tularemia are notifiable in many countries. Check with your national veterinary authority and the WOAH Terrestrial Animal Health Code (https://www.woah.org/en/what-we-do/standards/codes-and-manuals/terrestrial-code-online-access/) for local requirements. **4. Can I use vaccines for rabbits?** Vaccines are available for rabbit hemorrhagic disease and myxomatosis in some regions. Their use depends on local disease prevalence and regulatory approval. Consult a veterinarian to determine if vaccination is warranted. **5. How do I handle a sudden death outbreak?** Isolate affected pens, do not remove carcasses from the barn without biosecurity precautions, and contact a veterinarian immediately for diagnostic necropsy. Do not share equipment between healthy and sick groups. **6. What disinfectants are safe and effective for rabbit housing?** Quaternary ammonium compounds, diluted bleach (sodium hypochlorite), and peroxide,based disinfectants are commonly used. Always remove organic matter before disinfection. Check the product label for effectiveness against rabbit pathogens. **7. How do I manage manure to reduce disease transmission?** Remove manure regularly, compost it away from barns, and avoid spreading fresh manure on pastures that rabbits may access. Composting at temperatures above 55°C kills most pathogens. **8. What veterinary records should I keep?** Maintain a herd health log with dates of vaccinations, treatments, diagnostic results, mortality, and necropsy findings. These records are essential for outbreak investigations and for demonstrating compliance with animal health regulations. ## Educational Veterinary Notice This information is intended for educational purposes and does not replace the professional judgment of a licensed veterinarian. Rabbit producers should work closely with a veterinarian to develop a tailored health plan, especially regarding off,label drug use and disease prevention. Regulations and disease patterns vary by region, always verify local legal requirements. ## Related Farming Guides - [Rabbit Farming Housing Feeding Breeding Welfare And Health Observation](/knowledge/animal-farming/rabbits/rabbit-farming-housing-feeding-breeding-welfare-and-health-observation) - [Rabbit Housing Design For Health And Welfare](/knowledge/animal-farming/rabbits/rabbit-housing-design-for-health-and-welfare) - [Rabbit Biosecurity And Quarantine](/knowledge/animal-farming/rabbits/rabbit-biosecurity-and-quarantine) - [Preventing Digestive Problems In Farmed Rabbits](/knowledge/animal-farming/rabbits/preventing-digestive-problems-in-farmed-rabbits) - [Farm Health Intelligence Observation Records Biosecurity Diagnostics And Veterinary Escalation](/knowledge/animal-farming/farm-management/farm-health-intelligence-observation-records-biosecurity-diagnostics-and-veterinary-escalation) ## Related Clinical & Scientific Guides * [Rabbit Housing for Meat Production: Efficient and Humane Systems](/knowledge/animal-farming/rabbits/rabbit-housing-meat-production-efficient-humane) * [Raising Meat Rabbits From Weaning to Processing Weight](/knowledge/animal-farming/rabbits/raising-meat-rabbits-from-weaning-to-processing-weight) * [Rabbit Cage Sizing and Space Requirements by Breed and Stage](/knowledge/animal-farming/rabbits/rabbit-cage-sizing-space-requirements-breed-stage) ## References and Further Reading - [FAO Animal Production and Health](https://www.fao.org/animal-production/en/) - [WOAH Terrestrial Animal Health Code](https://www.woah.org/en/what-we-do/standards/codes-and-manuals/terrestrial-code-online-access/) - [USDA APHIS Livestock and Poultry Disease](https://www.aphis.usda.gov/livestock-poultry-disease) - [Merck Veterinary Manual](https://www.merckvetmanual.com/) - [USDA National Animal Health Monitoring System](https://www.aphis.usda.gov/livestock-poultry-disease/nahms) > This article is educational and is not a substitute for veterinary diagnosis, treatment, public-health guidance, or regulatory reporting.