# Rabbit Milk Production: Lactation Management and Doe Nutrition ## Key Takeaways - Rabbit milk's high fat and protein content enables a unique once-daily nursing pattern (3-5 minutes) for kits, with peak milk yield occurring between days 14-21 postpartum. - Lactating does require a high-energy diet (16-18% crude protein) with adequate fiber to support milk synthesis and prevent digestive disturbances, with feed intake potentially doubling or tripling post-kindling. - Monitoring kit weight gain is the primary indicator of milk production, with consistent growth from birth to weaning (28-35 days) signifying adequate nutrition and doe health. - Common lactation failures include insufficient milk production due to poor nutrition or stress, and mastitis, characterized by swollen, painful mammary glands that reduce yield and can cause systemic illness. - Effective lactation management necessitates meticulous record-keeping of litter performance, doe body condition, feed/water intake, and maternal behavior to inform selection of replacement does and culling of underperforming individuals. - Environmental factors such as heat stress, cold, and photoperiod significantly influence milk production and kit survival, requiring adjusted housing and feeding strategies to optimize performance across seasons. --- Lactating does require precise nutritional and environmental management to support milk synthesis and kit growth. Rabbit milk is exceptionally nutrient-dense, and doe lactation performance directly affects litter survival, weaning weights, and subsequent reproductive efficiency. This article covers lactation physiology, nutritional requirements, and management practices that rabbit breeders can apply to optimize milk yield and kit development. ## At a Glance: Key Factors in Rabbit Lactation Management | Factor | Typical Range or Target | Management Notes | |--------|------------------------|------------------| | Peak milk yield | Days 14-21 postpartum | Milk production rises gradually after kindling, peaks in the third week, then declines. Does nurse once daily for 3-5 minutes. | | Doe feed intake during lactation | 150-300 g/day (varies by breed, litter size, and diet energy density) | Intake increases sharply after kindling. Provide ad libitum access to a high-fiber, high-protein ration. | | Kit weaning age | 28-35 days | Weaning earlier than 28 days may reduce kit survival. Weaning later than 35 days can stress the doe and delay rebreeding. | Sources: [FAO](https://www.fao.org/4/x5082e/x5082e00.htm), [Merck Veterinary Manual](https://www.merckvetmanual.com/exotic-and-laboratory-animals/rabbits) ## Lactation Physiology in Rabbits Rabbit lactation differs from that of most mammals. Does typically nurse their kits once every 24 hours, and the nursing bout lasts only 3 to 5 minutes. This brief nursing period is possible because rabbit milk contains very high levels of fat and protein, providing concentrated nutrition in a short time. The doe's mammary glands develop rapidly during the last third of gestation, and milk secretion begins shortly before or at kindling. Milk yield increases steadily from day 1 postpartum, reaches a peak around days 14 to 21, and then declines gradually until weaning. Total milk production over a 28-day lactation ranges from approximately 4 to 8 kg per doe, depending on breed, parity, litter size, and nutrition. Litter size is a major driver of milk output: does with larger litters produce more milk, though the amount per kit may decrease if the litter exceeds the doe's capacity. The hormonal control of lactation involves prolactin, oxytocin, and other endocrine signals. Prolactin stimulates milk synthesis, while oxytocin triggers milk ejection during nursing. Genetic factors also influence milk production. A 2023 study examined the role of PRLR gene polymorphisms in milk production in European wild rabbits, suggesting that genetic variation in the prolactin receptor gene may affect lactation performance ([The Role of PRLR Gene Polymorphisms in Milk Production in European Wild Rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus)](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36830458)). Breeders selecting replacement does may consider genetic background as one factor in lactation potential. Rabbit maternal behavior is closely linked to lactation success. Does that exhibit poor nest building or fail to enter the nest box for nursing may have hormonal or environmental issues affecting milk letdown ([Rabbit Maternal Behavior: A Perspective from Behavioral Neuroendocrinology, Animal Production, and Psychobiology](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36169815)). Observing maternal behavior daily helps identify problems early. The composition of rabbit milk supports rapid kit growth. A 2023 review described the attributes of rabbit milk, noting its high energy density and unique nutrient profile that enables once-daily nursing ([Unveiling the attributes of rabbit milk](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37263129)). Understanding these physiological characteristics helps breeders set realistic expectations for lactation performance. ## Nutritional Requirements for Lactating Does Lactation places the highest nutritional demand on the doe's body. A doe nursing a large litter may produce milk equivalent to 10-15% of her body weight daily. Meeting this demand requires a diet that provides sufficient energy, protein, fiber, minerals, and water. ### Energy and Protein Energy is the most limiting nutrient for milk production. Does in early lactation often cannot consume enough feed to meet energy requirements and may lose body condition. Feeding a high-energy diet with 16-18% crude protein supports milk synthesis and helps maintain doe body weight. Protein quality matters: the diet should provide adequate levels of essential amino acids, particularly lysine and methionine. Feed intake typically doubles or triples after kindling compared to gestation. Does should have continuous access to feed. Restricted feeding during lactation reduces milk yield and kit growth. ### Fiber Fiber is essential for rabbit digestive health. Lactation diets should contain adequate crude fiber to prevent digestive disturbances such as enteritis and support normal cecotrophy. Cecotropes are nutrient-rich fecal pellets that rabbits consume to obtain additional protein and vitamins. Does rely on cecotrophy to meet some of their nutritional needs during lactation. ### Minerals and Vitamins Calcium and phosphorus are critical for milk production and bone health. The diet should provide appropriate calcium and phosphorus levels with a calcium-to-phosphorus ratio of approximately 2:1. Vitamin D is necessary for calcium absorption. Does also require adequate levels of vitamin A, vitamin E, and B vitamins. Commercial rabbit feeds formulated for lactation typically contain these nutrients at appropriate levels. ### Water Water intake increases dramatically during lactation. A lactating doe may drink 2-3 times more water than a non-lactating doe. Clean, fresh water must be available at all times. Water restriction reduces milk production within hours. Automatic watering systems or large water bottles should be checked daily for function and cleanliness. ## Feeding Management for Lactating Does ### Pre-Lactation Nutrition Nutrition during the last week of gestation influences lactation performance. Does should be transitioned to a lactation diet 5-7 days before kindling. This allows the digestive system to adapt to the higher energy and protein levels. Overfeeding during late gestation can lead to obesity and pregnancy toxemia, so feed intake should be monitored. ### Post-Kindling Feeding After kindling, provide ad libitum access to the lactation diet. Does typically eat more at night and in the early morning. Feeders should be large enough to hold several days of feed and designed to minimize waste. Check feeders daily and refill as needed. [Body condition scoring](/knowledge/animal-farming/farm-management/body-condition-scoring-a-tool-for-feed-management) helps assess whether the doe is receiving adequate nutrition. Does that lose excessive condition may need a higher-energy diet or a larger feed allowance. Does that become overweight may need a slight reduction in feed, though restriction during peak lactation is not recommended. ### Feed Form and Quality Pelleted feeds are preferred because they reduce waste and ensure balanced intake. The pellets should be fresh and free of mold, dust, or spoilage. Store feed in a cool, dry place and use within the manufacturer's recommended timeframe. Avoid sudden diet changes, which can cause digestive upset. ## Practical Steps for Assessing and Supporting Milk Production ### Step 1: Monitor Kit Growth Kit weight gain is the most practical indicator of milk production. Weigh kits at birth and then weekly until weaning. Average birth weight for domestic rabbits is 40-70 g, depending on breed and litter size. Kits should gain consistently during the first three weeks. Poor weight gain suggests insufficient milk intake. ### Step 2: Observe Nursing Behavior Does normally nurse once daily, usually at dawn or dusk. Kits that are well-fed have full, rounded abdomens and are quiet after nursing. Kits that are hungry may be restless, vocal, or have wrinkled skin. Observe the doe's nursing behavior: does that refuse to enter the nest box or that nurse for very short periods may have low milk production or mastitis. ### Step 3: Assess Doe Body Condition Body condition scoring uses a 1-5 scale, with 3 being ideal. Does that score 2 or lower during lactation may need a higher-energy diet or veterinary evaluation. Does that score 4 or 5 may be overconditioned, which can reduce feed intake and milk production. ### Step 4: Check Feed and Water Intake Measure daily feed intake for individual does if possible. A doe that eats less than expected may be ill, stressed, or offered unpalatable feed. Check water consumption by observing water level in bottles or flow from automatic systems. Reduced water intake is an early sign of health problems. ### Step 5: Record Litter Data Maintain records for each litter: birth date, litter size, kit weights at birth and weekly, weaning weights, and any health issues. These records help identify does with consistently poor lactation performance and guide culling decisions. ## Records and Measurements Accurate records are essential for managing lactation and making breeding decisions. The following measurements are useful: - **Milk yield estimation**: Direct measurement of milk yield is difficult in rabbits because does nurse only once daily and may not tolerate milking. Indirect estimation using kit weight gain is the standard method. Total litter weight gain over the first 21 days correlates well with milk production. - **Feed intake**: Record daily feed offered and refused for each doe. This helps identify does with poor appetite and allows calculation of feed efficiency. - **Water intake**: Measure water consumption when possible. Sudden decreases may indicate illness. - **Body weight and condition**: Weigh does at kindling and at weaning. Record body condition scores weekly. - **Litter performance**: Record kit birth weights, weekly weights, weaning weights, and mortality. Compare litter performance across does and parities. A 2017 study compared milk production and milk composition for an exotic and a local synthetic rabbit line, finding differences in yield and nutrient content ([Comparison of milk production and milk composition for an exotic and a local synthetic rabbit lines](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28620257)). Breeders working with multiple genetic lines should track performance separately to identify line-specific management needs. Seasonal variations can affect milk production and kit mortality. A 2018 study examined seasonal variations in the mortality of young rabbits and milk production of white population and synthetic strain rabbits, finding that environmental factors such as temperature and photoperiod influence lactation performance ([Seasonal variations in the mortality of young rabbits and of the milk production of the rabbits of white population and synthetic strain](https://api.elsevier.com/content/abstract/scopus_id/85040001976)). Breeders should adjust housing and feeding strategies according to seasonal conditions. A 2005 study evaluated milk production of a local Algerian rabbit population, providing baseline data on lactation performance in non-commercial settings ([Evaluation of milk production of a local Algerian rabbit population raised in the Tizi-Ouzou area (Kabylia)](https://api.elsevier.com/content/abstract/scopus_id/33746387853)). These population-specific records help breeders understand the range of normal lactation performance across different genetic backgrounds. ## Common Failure Patterns in Lactation Management ### Insufficient Milk Production Low milk yield is the most common lactation problem. Causes include inadequate nutrition, poor feed intake, disease, stress, and genetic factors. Does that are too young, too old, or in poor body condition at kindling are at higher risk. Litters with very large numbers of kits may exceed the doe's milk production capacity. ### Mastitis Mastitis is inflammation of the mammary gland, usually caused by bacterial infection. Signs include swollen, red, or hot mammary glands, the doe may be reluctant to nurse or may show signs of pain. Mastitis can reduce milk production in the affected gland and may lead to systemic illness. Does with mastitis should be separated from their kits and evaluated by a veterinarian. ### Pregnancy Toxemia Pregnancy toxemia is a metabolic disorder that can occur in late gestation and early lactation. It is more common in does that are overconditioned or underfed. Signs include anorexia, lethargy, and neurological symptoms. Pregnancy toxemia is a medical emergency requiring veterinary attention. ### Dehydration Does that do not drink enough water will reduce milk production. Dehydration can result from dirty or frozen water sources, malfunctioning watering systems, or illness. Check water availability daily, especially in hot weather. ### Stress Stress from overcrowding, noise, predators, or handling can reduce milk production. Does should be housed in a quiet, stable environment. Nest boxes should be clean, dry, and protected from drafts. ## Welfare and Safety Considerations ### Doe Welfare Lactation is physically demanding. Does that are unable to maintain body condition or that show signs of distress should be evaluated. Does with chronic poor lactation performance should be culled from the breeding herd. Provide adequate space, clean bedding, and proper ventilation. ### Kit Welfare Kits depend entirely on milk for the first two to three weeks. Mortality during this period is often related to inadequate milk intake. Check nest boxes daily for dead or weak kits. Kits that are cold, dehydrated, or failing to gain weight may need supplemental feeding or fostering to a lactating doe. ### Worker Safety Rabbits can bite and scratch, especially when protecting their young. Use proper handling techniques and protective gloves when working with lactating does. Avoid sudden movements and loud noises. Wash hands after handling rabbits and before handling feed. ### [Food Safety](/knowledge/bacteria/livestock-bacteria/cooking-chicken-bacteria-prevention) If rabbits are raised for meat, withdrawal periods for any medications must be observed. Keep accurate records of all treatments. Use only approved medications and follow label instructions. Clean and sanitize equipment regularly. ## Professional Escalation Criteria Consult a veterinarian or animal science specialist in the following situations: - Does with signs of mastitis, pregnancy toxemia, or other illness - Litters with high mortality (more than 20% pre-weaning mortality) - Does that refuse to nurse or that show aggression toward kits - Persistent poor kit growth despite adequate nutrition and management - Outbreaks of diarrhea or respiratory disease in does or kits - Does that lose more than 15% of body weight during lactation ## Decision Framework for Selecting and Culling Does Based on Lactation Performance Establishing a systematic decision framework for selecting replacement does and culling poor performers is essential for maintaining a productive rabbitry. Without objective criteria, breeders may retain does that consistently underproduce milk, reducing overall herd efficiency and kit survival rates. The following framework integrates measurable lactation data with practical management timelines to guide culling and selection decisions. ### Step 1: Establish Baseline Performance Benchmarks Before evaluating individual does, define minimum acceptable performance thresholds for your herd. These benchmarks should be based on your breed, production goals, and historical records. For commercial meat rabbit operations, a doe should wean at least 5 to 6 kits per litter with an average weaning weight of 500 to 600 g at 28 to 35 days. For smaller breeds or hobby herds, adjust expectations accordingly. Record the following baseline data for your herd over at least three lactation cycles: - Average total litter weight gain from birth to 21 days - Average kit birth weight and weaning weight - Average pre-weaning mortality rate - Average doe body condition score at kindling and weaning The FAO provides general guidelines for [rabbit production](/knowledge/animal-farming/rabbits/rabbit-welfare-and-enrichment-meeting-behavioral-needs-in-production-systems) parameters, including expected litter sizes and weaning weights across different management systems ([FAO](https://www.fao.org/4/x5082e/x5082e00.htm)). Use these as reference points but adjust for your specific genetic lines and environmental conditions. ### Step 2: Implement a Three-Strike Culling System A three-strike system provides objective criteria for culling does while allowing for occasional poor performance due to factors outside the doe's control. Track each doe's performance across consecutive lactations and apply strikes as follows: **First Strike**: Any single lactation where the doe fails to meet two or more of the following criteria: - Weans fewer than 5 kits - Average kit weaning weight falls below 80% of herd average - Pre-weaning mortality exceeds 25% - Doe loses more than 15% of body weight during lactation **Second Strike**: A second lactation with similar underperformance, or any single lactation with severe issues such as: - Complete litter loss before weaning - Doe develops mastitis requiring treatment - Doe refuses to nurse for more than 24 hours **Third Strike**: A third underperforming lactation, or any lactation where the doe shows signs of chronic health problems affecting milk production. Does receiving three strikes should be culled from the breeding herd. Does that perform well for several lactations and then decline may be approaching the end of their productive lifespan. The Merck Veterinary Manual notes that rabbit reproductive performance typically declines after 2 to 3 years of age, depending on breed and management intensity ([Merck Veterinary Manual](https://www.merckvetmanual.com/exotic-and-laboratory-animals/rabbits)). Track doe age and parity alongside lactation records to identify age-related declines. ### Step 3: Evaluate Does After Each Lactation Cycle Conduct a formal evaluation of each doe within one week of weaning. Use the following checklist: - **Litter performance**: Compare litter size at birth and weaning, kit weights, and mortality to herd benchmarks - **Doe body condition**: Score body condition on a 1-5 scale. Does scoring 2 or lower after weaning may need extended recovery time before rebreeding - **Mammary health**: Palpate mammary glands for firmness, swelling, or signs of mastitis - **Maternal behavior**: Note any issues with nest building, nursing frequency, or aggression toward kits - **Feed intake records**: Review feed consumption during lactation. Does that ate less than 80% of expected intake may have underlying health issues A 2017 study comparing milk production in exotic and local synthetic rabbit lines found significant differences in yield and composition, emphasizing the importance of line-specific evaluation criteria ([Comparison of milk production and milk composition for an exotic and a local synthetic rabbit lines](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28620257)). If you maintain multiple genetic lines, establish separate benchmarks for each line. ### Step 4: Select Replacement Does from High-Performing Dams Replacement does should come from dams with consistently above-average lactation performance. Consider the following selection criteria: - Dam has completed at least three lactations with no strikes - Dam's average weaning weight per kit is in the top 25% of the herd - Dam has no history of mastitis or nursing problems - Dam maintains good body condition throughout lactation Genetic factors influence milk production potential. A 2023 study identified PRLR gene polymorphisms associated with milk production in European wild rabbits, suggesting that genetic selection for lactation traits may be feasible ([The Role of PRLR Gene Polymorphisms in Milk Production in European Wild Rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus)](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36830458)). While commercial breeders may not have access to genetic testing, selecting replacement does from high-producing dams is a practical approach to improving herd genetics over time. ### Step 5: Monitor Seasonal and Environmental Effects Seasonal variations can significantly impact lactation performance. A 2018 study found that milk production and kit mortality varied by season in both white population and synthetic strain rabbits ([Seasonal variations in the mortality of young rabbits and of the milk production of the rabbits of white population and synthetic strain](https://api.elsevier.com/content/abstract/scopus_id/85040001976)). When evaluating doe performance, account for seasonal factors such as: - **Summer heat**: High temperatures reduce feed intake and milk production. Does that underperform during summer months may perform adequately in cooler seasons - **Winter cold**: Extreme cold increases energy requirements for thermoregulation, potentially reducing milk available for kits - **Photoperiod changes**: Day length influences reproductive hormones and may affect lactation Adjust culling decisions based on seasonal context. A doe that performs poorly during her first lactation in summer may deserve a second chance during a more favorable season. ### Step 6: Document and Review Decisions Maintain a culling log that records for each culled doe: - Doe identification number and age - Reason for culling (e.g., three strikes, age, health problem) - Lactation performance data for her last three cycles - Date of culling - Notes on any unusual circumstances Review culling decisions quarterly to identify patterns. If multiple does are culled for the same reason, such as mastitis or poor maternal behavior, investigate potential management or environmental causes. The USDA National Agricultural Library provides resources on animal health and welfare that can help identify systemic issues ([USDA National Agricultural Library](https://www.nal.usda.gov/animal-health-and-welfare)). ### Common Failure Patterns in the Decision Framework **Failure Pattern 1: Inconsistent Application of Criteria** Breeders may hesitate to cull a doe with a strong maternal temperament or desirable conformation, even when her lactation performance is poor. This inconsistency undermines the framework and slows genetic progress. Apply criteria uniformly across all does. **Failure Pattern 2: Ignoring Environmental Factors** Culling a doe based on a single poor lactation during extreme weather or after a disease outbreak may remove genetically superior animals. Always consider environmental context before applying strikes. **Failure Pattern 3: Overlooking Doe Age and Parity** First-parity does often produce less milk than mature does. A 2005 study of a local Algerian rabbit population found that milk production increased with parity up to the third or fourth lactation ([Evaluation of milk production of a local Algerian rabbit population raised in the Tizi-Ouzou area (Kabylia)](https://api.elsevier.com/content/abstract/scopus_id/33746387853)). Give first-parity does additional time to reach full production potential before applying culling criteria. **Failure Pattern 4: Insufficient Record Keeping** Without accurate records, objective culling decisions are impossible. Implement a simple record-keeping system that captures the essential data points described above. Review records before each breeding cycle to identify underperforming does. ### Professional Escalation Criteria for the Decision Framework Consult a rabbit production specialist or veterinarian if: - More than 20% of does in the herd receive strikes in a single lactation cycle - Multiple does show signs of chronic mastitis or reproductive disorders - Herd-wide weaning weights decline despite improved nutrition and management - Genetic selection efforts do not improve lactation performance over three generations - Seasonal variations cause extreme performance swings that cannot be managed with housing adjustments ## Frequently Asked Questions ### How can I tell if my doe is producing enough milk? Monitor kit weight gain. Kits should gain consistently during the first three weeks. Well-fed kits have full abdomens and are quiet after nursing. Poor weight gain, restless kits, or wrinkled skin suggest insufficient milk intake. ### What should I feed a lactating doe? Feed a high-quality commercial [rabbit diet](/knowledge/veterinary-medicine/small-mammal-care/rabbit-diet) formulated for lactation with adequate crude protein and digestible energy. Provide ad libitum access. Clean, fresh water must be available at all times. ### How often do rabbits nurse their young? Does typically nurse their kits once every 24 hours, usually at dawn or dusk. The nursing bout lasts only 3 to 5 minutes. This is normal rabbit behavior and does not indicate a problem. ### Can I increase milk production in my doe? Ensure the doe has unlimited access to a lactation diet and clean water. Reduce stress by providing a quiet, stable environment. Check for signs of illness or mastitis. Does that consistently produce low milk may have genetic limitations and may need to be culled. ### When should I wean rabbit kits? Kits are typically weaned at 28 to 35 days of age. Weaning earlier than 28 days may reduce survival. Weaning later than 35 days can stress the doe and delay rebreeding. Wean the entire litter at the same time. ### Why are my kits not gaining weight? Possible causes include insufficient milk production by the doe, mastitis, large litter size, poor doe nutrition, or disease in the kits. Check the doe's feed and water intake, examine her mammary glands, and weigh the kits to track growth. Consult a veterinarian if the problem persists. ### How does litter size affect milk production? Does with larger litters produce more total milk, but the amount per kit may decrease if the litter exceeds the doe's capacity. Very large litters may need supplemental feeding or fostering to a doe with a smaller litter. ### What are the signs of mastitis in a lactating doe? Signs include swollen, red, or hot mammary glands, the doe may be reluctant to nurse or may show signs of pain. Mastitis can reduce milk production and may cause systemic illness. Does with mastitis should be separated from their kits and evaluated by a veterinarian. ## Related Farming Guides - [Lentivirus Production](/blog/guides/plaque-assays-planning-controls-and-reporting-viral-titer) - [Rabbit Breeding Records And Mating Management](/knowledge/animal-farming/rabbits/rabbit-breeding-records-and-mating-management) - [Rabbit Farm Production And Welfare Records](/knowledge/animal-farming/rabbits/rabbit-farm-production-and-welfare-records) - [Rabbit Manure Management And Composting On Small Farms](/knowledge/animal-farming/rabbits/rabbit-manure-management-and-composting-on-small-farms) - [Rabbit Cage And Colony Housing Decisions Welfare Hygiene And Management](/knowledge/animal-farming/rabbits/rabbit-cage-and-colony-housing-decisions-welfare-hygiene-and-management) ## 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 - [www.fao.org](https://www.fao.org/4/x5082e/x5082e00.htm) - [www.merckvetmanual.com](https://www.merckvetmanual.com/exotic-and-laboratory-animals/rabbits) - [www.ars.usda.gov](https://www.ars.usda.gov/) - [FAO Animal Production and Health](https://www.fao.org/animal-production/en). Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations. - [Animal Health and Welfare](https://www.nal.usda.gov/animal-health-and-welfare). USDA National Agricultural Library. - [Unveiling the attributes of rabbit milk.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37263129). Animal : an international journal of animal bioscience, 2023. - [Transgenic bioreactors.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9890138). Biotechnology annual review, 1998. - [The Role of PRLR Gene Polymorphisms in Milk Production in European Wild Rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus).](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36830458). Animals : an open access journal from MDPI, 2023. - [Transgenic rabbits for the production of biologically-active recombinant proteins in the milk.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10596760). Genetic analysis : biomolecular engineering, 1999. - [Rabbit Maternal Behavior: A Perspective from Behavioral Neuroendocrinology, Animal Production, and Psychobiology.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36169815). Advances in neurobiology, 2022. - [Comparison of milk production and milk composition for an exotic and a local synthetic rabbit lines.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28620257). Veterinary world, 2017. - [Evaluation of milk production of a local Algerian rabbit population raised in the Tizi-Ouzou area (Kabylia)](https://api.elsevier.com/content/abstract/scopus_id/33746387853). World Rabbit Science, 2005. - [Seasonal variations in the mortality of young rabbits and of the milk production of the rabbits of white population and synthetic strain](https://api.elsevier.com/content/abstract/scopus_id/85040001976). Livestock Research for Rural Development, 2018. - [Rabbit β-casein promoter directs secretion of human interleukin-2 into the milk of transgenic rabbits](https://doi.org/10.1038/nbt0290-140). Bio Technology, 1990. > This article is educational and is not a substitute for veterinary diagnosis, treatment, public-health guidance, or regulatory reporting.