# [Rabbit Production](/knowledge/animal-farming/rabbits/rabbit-welfare-and-enrichment-meeting-behavioral-needs-in-production-systems) Cycle: From Mating to Weaning ## Key Takeaways - Rabbit reproduction is characterized by reflex ovulatory does, meaning ovulation is triggered by mating, necessitating careful observation during the mating process to confirm successful copulation and ejaculation (indicated by the buck's "fall-off"). - Gestation averages 31 days (30-32 day range), and pregnancy can be confirmed via abdominal palpation around 10-14 days post-mating, with nutritional support requiring 16-18% crude protein feed and increased intake in the final week. - Kindling (birth) requires minimal disturbance; post-kindling checks involve counting kits, removing dead fetuses/placenta, and ensuring kits are warm and have nursed, evidenced by rounded bellies. - Lactation demands significantly increased nutrition for the doe (18-20% crude protein feed) and constant water access, with kit growth monitored weekly via weight gain (doubling birth weight within 5-7 days) to detect issues like inadequate nursing or mastitis. - Weaning typically occurs between 28-42 days, with kits ideally weighing 400-500 grams, and involves separating kits from the doe while transitioning them to a starter feed (18-20% crude protein) and fresh water. - Comprehensive record-keeping for breeding, litter performance (litter size, mortality, weaning weights), and buck fertility is critical for identifying and addressing common failure patterns such as failure to conceive, small litter sizes, and high pre-weaning mortality. --- This article provides a week-by-week calendar of the rabbit production cycle from mating through weaning, with key management tasks at each stage. New rabbit breeders and small-scale farmers planning their breeding schedule will find concrete decisions, observations, and record-keeping guidance based on established rabbit biology and production principles. Rabbits are reflexively ovulating animals, meaning ovulation occurs in response to mating instead of on a cyclical schedule, which shapes the entire breeding management approach. The cycle spans approximately 8 to 10 weeks from mating to weaning, depending on the breed and management system. ## At a Glance: Rabbit Production Cycle Timeline The table below summarizes the major phases of the rabbit production cycle with typical durations and key management actions. Individual variation occurs between breeds and does, so these ranges serve as planning guidelines instead of fixed rules. | Phase | Duration | Key Management Tasks | Critical Observations | |-------|----------|----------------------|----------------------| | Mating and conception | Day 0 to 1 | Place doe in buck's cage, observe mating, return doe to her cage | Confirm mating observed, record date and buck used | | Gestation | Days 1 to 31 | Provide balanced nutrition, minimize stress, prepare nest box by day 28 | Monitor feed intake, check for signs of pregnancy | | Kindling | Days 30 to 32 | Provide nest box with clean bedding, minimize disturbance | Count kits, remove dead kits or placenta, check doe's condition | | Lactation and nursing | Days 1 to 21 after kindling | Ensure doe has constant water and feed, check kits daily for fullness and warmth | Monitor kit growth, watch for mastitis or sore hocks in doe | | Weaning | Days 28 to 42 after kindling | Separate kits from doe, provide starter feed and water | Weigh kits, record weaning weights, transition feed gradually | ## Understanding Rabbit Reproductive Biology Rabbits have distinct reproductive characteristics that differ from many other livestock species. The doe is a reflexively ovulating animal, as described in research on the sexual cycle in reflexively ovulating rabbits (Elsevier, 1993). This means ovulation occurs approximately 10 to 12 hours after mating, triggered by the physical act of copulation. Does do not have a regular estrous cycle with predictable heat periods. Instead, they experience periods of receptivity that can last several days, followed by periods of non-receptivity. The doe's reproductive tract is designed for rapid production. The gestation period averages 31 days, with a normal range of 30 to 32 days. Does can be rebred shortly after kindling, though many producers wait 14 to 21 days to allow the doe to recover body condition. The litter size varies by breed, with medium breeds typically producing 6 to 10 kits per litter. The buck's reproductive capacity also requires management attention. Bucks reach sexual maturity at 4 to 6 months for small breeds and 6 to 8 months for larger breeds. A mature buck can service multiple does per week, but overuse reduces fertility and sperm quality. Record keeping for each buck's mating frequency helps prevent overuse. ## Pre-Breeding Preparation Before introducing a doe to the buck, both animals should be in good body condition. Does that are too thin or too fat have reduced conception rates and higher risk of pregnancy complications. The doe should have a body condition score of 3 on a 5-point scale, meaning the spine and ribs are easily felt but not visible, and there is a moderate fat cover over the loin area. The breeding environment must be clean and free of hazards. The buck's cage should have solid flooring or clean wire mesh to prevent foot injuries. Remove any sharp objects, loose wires, or protruding nails. The cage should be large enough for the buck to approach the doe without being cornered. A minimum cage size of 0.5 square meters per adult rabbit is recommended by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO, www.fao.org/4/x5082e/x5082e00.htm). Health checks before breeding include examining the doe's vulva for signs of receptivity. A receptive doe typically has a swollen, reddish-purple vulva. A non-receptive doe has a pale, dry vulva. While some does will mate regardless of vulva color, checking receptivity improves breeding success rates. Also check the doe's teeth for overgrowth, her eyes for discharge, and her feet for sore hocks. Any health issue should be resolved before breeding. The buck should be examined for testicular size and consistency. Both testicles should be present, firm, and of equal size. Small or soft testicles indicate reduced fertility. The buck's prepuce should be clean and free of discharge. Record the buck's breeding history, including the number of does serviced in the past week and any previous fertility problems. ## Mating Procedure The standard mating procedure involves taking the doe to the buck's cage, not the reverse. Does are territorial and may attack a buck placed in her cage. The buck is more confident in his own environment and will approach the doe for mating. Place the doe in the buck's cage and observe the pair. Most matings occur within a few minutes. The buck will sniff the doe, circle her, and mount from the rear. Successful mating is confirmed when the buck falls off the doe sideways or backward, often making a grunting sound. This "fall-off" indicates ejaculation has occurred. Leave the doe in the buck's cage for two to three mounts to ensure adequate stimulation for ovulation. Then return the doe to her cage. If the doe does not accept the buck within 10 to 15 minutes, remove her and try again the next day. Forcing mating by holding the doe increases stress and reduces conception rates. Some does are not receptive on a given day and will refuse mating by running away, hiding in a corner, or attacking the buck. Record the date and the doe's behavior for future reference. After mating, record the date, the buck used, and the doe's identification number. This record is essential for calculating expected kindling dates and tracking breeding efficiency. A simple breeding log with columns for doe ID, buck ID, mating date, expected kindling date, and actual kindling date provides the basic data needed for management decisions. ## Gestation Period Management The gestation period for rabbits averages 31 days, with a normal range of 30 to 32 days. During this period, the doe requires consistent nutrition, minimal stress, and appropriate housing. The FAO guidelines on rabbit production (FAO, www.fao.org/4/x5082e/x5082e00.htm) emphasize that does should not be handled unnecessarily during the last week of gestation. ### Nutrition During Gestation Feed the doe a high-quality pellet ration containing 16 to 18 percent crude protein during gestation. Provide unlimited access to fresh water and good-quality hay. The doe's feed intake increases during the last week of gestation as the kits grow rapidly. Some producers increase feed by 10 to 20 percent during the last week to support fetal development. Avoid sudden feed changes during gestation. Gradual transitions over 5 to 7 days prevent digestive upset. The doe's digestive system is sensitive during pregnancy, and abrupt feed changes can cause diarrhea or enteritis. Provide clean, mold-free feed and hay at all times. ### Pregnancy Confirmation Pregnancy can be confirmed by abdominal palpation at 10 to 14 days after mating. A skilled producer can feel the developing kits as small, marble-sized lumps in the doe's lower abdomen. Palpation requires gentle handling to avoid injuring the doe or the developing fetuses. If you are not experienced with palpation, ask a veterinarian or experienced breeder to demonstrate the technique. Another method of pregnancy confirmation is to observe the doe's behavior. Pregnant does often become more protective of their space and may refuse mating attempts. Some does will pull fur from their belly and chest in the last few days before kindling. However, these behavioral signs are not reliable for early pregnancy detection. Does that are not pregnant will typically accept the buck again 14 to 18 days after the first mating attempt. If a doe refuses the buck at this time, she may be pregnant. However, some pregnant does will still accept a buck, so refusal is not a reliable sign. The most reliable method is to maintain accurate breeding records and observe for kindling at the expected date. ### Nest Box Preparation Prepare the nest box by day 28 of gestation. The nest box should be large enough for the doe to turn around and for the litter to spread out. A typical nest box for medium breeds measures 30 by 25 by 25 centimeters. Fill the box with clean, soft bedding material such as straw, hay, or wood shavings. Avoid dusty or moldy bedding that could cause respiratory problems in newborn kits. Place the nest box in the doe's cage 3 to 4 days before the expected kindling date. This gives the doe time to investigate the box and begin nest building. Some does will immediately start pulling fur and arranging bedding. Others wait until the day of kindling. The presence of the nest box signals to the doe that a safe place is available for her litter. ## Kindling Process Kindling refers to the birth process in rabbits. Most does kindle during the night or early morning hours. The process typically takes 10 to 30 minutes for the entire litter. Kits are born hairless, blind, and deaf, with their eyes closed. They are completely dependent on the doe for warmth and nutrition. ### Signs of Approaching Kindling In the 24 to 48 hours before kindling, the doe may exhibit several behaviors. She may pull fur from her belly, chest, and flanks to line the nest. This fur provides insulation for the newborn kits. The doe may also become restless, rearranging bedding and moving around the cage more than usual. Some does stop eating 12 to 24 hours before kindling. The doe's vulva may appear swollen and reddish. The mammary glands become more prominent and may feel firm. In some does, milk can be expressed from the nipples shortly before kindling. These signs are not present in all does, so rely on the expected kindling date from your breeding records as the primary indicator. ### What to Do During Kindling Minimize disturbance during kindling. Do not open the cage, handle the doe, or check on her frequently. Stress during kindling can cause the doe to abandon the litter or injure the kits. Check the cage from a distance to confirm that kindling has occurred. If the doe appears to be struggling or if more than 30 minutes pass between kits, consult a veterinarian. After kindling, the doe will clean the kits, eat the placenta, and cover them with fur. She will then leave the nest and may not return for several hours. This is normal behavior. Does typically nurse their kits once or twice per day, usually at dawn and dusk. The kits receive highly concentrated milk that allows them to grow rapidly with infrequent nursing. ### Post-Kindling Check Wait until the doe has left the nest before checking the litter. This usually occurs within 2 to 4 hours after kindling. Gently remove the fur covering the kits and count them. Remove any dead kits, placenta, or soiled bedding. Check each kit for injuries or deformities. Healthy kits are pink, warm, and active, with rounded bellies indicating they have nursed. Record the number of kits born, the number alive, and any abnormalities. This information is valuable for evaluating the doe's reproductive performance and for making culling decisions. Does that consistently produce small litters, high mortality, or deformed kits may need to be replaced. If the doe has not pulled fur to cover the kits, you can pull some fur from her belly or provide soft hay to cover them. Kits that are not covered will lose body heat rapidly and may die within hours. The nest temperature should be maintained at 30 to 32 degrees Celsius for the first week of life. ## Lactation and Nursing Management The lactation period lasts from kindling until weaning, typically 28 to 42 days depending on the production system. During this period, the doe produces milk that provides all the nutrition for the growing kits. The doe's nutritional requirements increase dramatically during lactation, and she may consume two to three times her normal feed intake. ### Doe Nutrition During Lactation Provide the doe with unlimited access to a high-quality pellet ration containing 18 to 20 percent crude protein during lactation. Fresh water must be available at all times, as milk production requires large amounts of water. A lactating doe can drink 0.5 to 1 liter of water per day, depending on litter size and environmental temperature. Supplement the doe's diet with good-quality hay, which provides fiber for digestive health. Some producers also provide a small amount of oats or barley to increase energy intake. Avoid sudden feed changes, as the doe's digestive system is sensitive during lactation. Gradually transition to a lactation ration if the doe was on a maintenance diet before kindling. ### Kit Growth Monitoring Weigh the kits at birth and at weekly intervals to monitor growth. Healthy kits double their birth weight within 5 to 7 days. The average birth weight for medium breeds is 40 to 60 grams per kit. By day 7, kits should weigh 100 to 150 grams. By day 14, they should weigh 200 to 300 grams. By day 21, they should weigh 350 to 500 grams. Record kit weights in a litter growth chart. This data helps identify problems early. Kits that are not gaining weight may not be nursing adequately, may have a health problem, or may be competing with larger littermates. Small or weak kits can be moved to a foster doe with a smaller litter, if available. Check kits daily for signs of illness or injury. Healthy kits are active, have rounded bellies, and feel warm to the touch. Kits that are cold, dehydrated, or have sunken bellies are not nursing adequately. These kits may need supplemental feeding or veterinary attention. ### Common Lactation Problems Mastitis is an infection of the mammary gland that can occur during lactation. Signs include a hard, swollen, or discolored mammary gland, the doe refusing to nurse, and kits that are not gaining weight. Mastitis requires veterinary treatment and may necessitate hand-rearing the litter. Does with recurrent mastitis should be culled. Sore hocks are ulcers on the bottom of the feet caused by pressure from wire flooring. Does that are heavy with milk may develop sore hocks from spending more time lying down. Provide a resting board or solid surface in the cage to reduce pressure on the feet. Sore hocks that do not heal with improved flooring require veterinary attention. Milk fever, or hypocalcemia, is a metabolic condition caused by low blood calcium levels. Signs include weakness, tremors, and paralysis. Milk fever is rare in rabbits but can occur in heavy-producing does. Immediate veterinary treatment is required. Prevention includes providing adequate calcium in the diet and avoiding excessive calcium supplementation. ## Weaning Process Weaning is the process of separating the kits from the doe and transitioning them to solid feed. The timing of weaning depends on the production system, the breed, and the condition of the doe and kits. Most commercial rabbit producers wean at 28 to 35 days of age. Some producers wean as early as 21 days for intensive systems or as late as 42 days for slower-growing breeds. ### Weaning Age Considerations Weaning at 28 days is common in commercial production because it allows the doe to be rebred sooner, increasing the number of litters per year. However, early weaning requires that kits are eating solid feed and drinking water independently. Kits weaned too early may experience growth check, digestive upset, or increased mortality. Weaning at 35 to 42 days gives kits more time to develop their digestive systems and immune function. This later weaning is often used for smaller breeds or for does that are in good body condition and can sustain lactation longer. The trade-off is that the doe has a longer interval between litters, reducing annual production. The decision on weaning age should be based on kit weight instead of age alone. Kits should weigh at least 400 to 500 grams before weaning, regardless of age. Kits that are below this weight may not have developed adequate digestive capacity to thrive on solid feed alone. ### Weaning Procedure Remove the doe from the cage, not the kits. Moving the doe causes less stress to the kits, as they remain in their familiar environment. Place the doe in a clean cage away from the kits to prevent her from hearing their calls. The kits will vocalize for the first 24 to 48 hours after separation, but this is normal behavior. Provide the weaned kits with a starter feed containing 18 to 20 percent crude protein. The feed should be in a form that is easy for young rabbits to eat, such as pellets or crumbles. Provide fresh water in a clean water bottle or bowl. Kits may not drink immediately, so check the water source frequently and ensure it is accessible. Monitor the weaned kits closely for the first week after weaning. Signs of stress include reduced feed intake, diarrhea, huddling, and lethargy. Kits that are not eating or drinking may need to be encouraged by offering fresh greens or by placing a small amount of feed in a shallow dish. Any kit that shows signs of illness should be isolated and evaluated by a veterinarian. ### Post-Weaning Management After weaning, the kits should be housed in groups of 2 to 4 animals to provide social interaction and reduce stress. Group housing allows kits to huddle together for warmth and to learn feeding behaviors from each other. Avoid overcrowding, as this increases the risk of disease transmission and aggression. Provide a clean, dry environment with good ventilation. The cage should have solid flooring or a resting board to prevent sore hocks. The temperature should be maintained at 18 to 22 degrees Celsius for growing rabbits. Avoid drafts and sudden temperature changes, which can cause respiratory problems. Feed the growing rabbits a balanced ration with adequate protein, fiber, and energy. The feed should contain 16 to 18 percent crude protein for growing rabbits. Provide unlimited access to hay, which supports digestive health and dental wear. Fresh water must be available at all times. ## Records and Measurements Accurate record keeping is essential for managing the rabbit production cycle. Records allow you to track individual doe and buck performance, identify problems early, and make informed culling decisions. The following records should be maintained for each breeding animal and litter. ### Breeding Records Maintain a breeding log for each doe that includes the following information: doe identification number, date of birth, breed, sire and dam, date of each mating, buck used, date of kindling, number of kits born alive, number of kits born dead, number of kits weaned, and weaning weight. This data allows you to calculate key performance indicators such as conception rate, litter size, and pre-weaning mortality. For each buck, record the identification number, date of birth, breed, sire and dam, and the date and doe for each mating. Track the number of does serviced per week and the conception rate for each buck. Bucks that have low conception rates or that produce small litters should be replaced. ### Litter Records For each litter, record the following information: doe identification number, buck identification number, mating date, expected kindling date, actual kindling date, number of kits born alive, number of kits born dead, number of kits at day 7, number of kits at day 14, number of kits at weaning, and weaning weight. This data allows you to calculate pre-weaning mortality rates and identify does that consistently have high kit losses. Weigh the litter at birth and at weekly intervals. Record the total litter weight and the number of kits to calculate average kit weight. This data helps identify growth problems early. Kits that are not gaining weight may need supplemental feeding or veterinary attention. ### Performance Indicators Calculate the following performance indicators from your records: conception rate (number of does that kindle divided by number of does mated, multiplied by 100), average litter size (total kits born divided by number of litters), pre-weaning mortality (number of kits that die before weaning divided by number of kits born alive, multiplied by 100), and weaning weight (average weight of kits at weaning). These indicators allow you to compare the performance of individual does and bucks and to identify trends over time. Does that consistently have low conception rates, small litters, or high pre-weaning mortality should be culled. Bucks that produce small litters or have low conception rates should be replaced. ## Common Failure Patterns Several common problems can disrupt the rabbit production cycle. Recognizing these patterns early allows you to take corrective action and minimize losses. ### Failure to Conceive Does that do not conceive after mating may have several underlying causes. The doe may not have been receptive at the time of mating, the buck may have low fertility, or the mating may not have resulted in adequate stimulation for ovulation. If a doe fails to conceive after two or three mating attempts, evaluate both the doe and the buck for health problems. Check the doe for signs of illness, such as respiratory infection, uterine infection, or obesity. Does that are overweight have reduced fertility and may not conceive. Check the buck for testicular abnormalities, such as small or soft testicles, or for signs of infection. If both animals appear healthy, try a different buck or wait 2 to 3 weeks before attempting mating again. ### Small Litter Size Litter size is influenced by breed, doe age, nutrition, and genetics. First-litter does often have smaller litters than experienced does. Does that are too young, too old, or in poor body condition may produce small litters. Nutritional deficiencies, particularly in protein and energy, can reduce litter size. If a doe consistently produces small litters, evaluate her body condition and nutrition. Ensure she is receiving a balanced ration with adequate protein and energy. If nutrition is adequate and the doe is in good condition, consider replacing her with a doe from a line known for larger litters. ### High Pre-Weaning Mortality Pre-weaning mortality is a common problem in rabbit production. Causes include inadequate nursing, cold stress, disease, and injury. Kits that are not nursing may be weak, may have a cleft palate, or may be unable to compete with larger littermates. Cold stress occurs when the nest is not adequately insulated or when the doe does not cover the kits. Check the nest daily for the first week after kindling. Ensure the kits are warm, have rounded bellies, and are active. If kits are cold or have sunken bellies, they may not be nursing. Check the doe for mastitis or other health problems that may prevent her from nursing. Provide supplemental heat if the nest temperature is below 30 degrees Celsius. ### Doe Aggression Toward Kits Some does may attack or kill their kits. This behavior is more common in first-litter does or in does that are stressed. Causes include inadequate nest box, disturbance during kindling, or the doe being in poor body condition. Does that are hungry or thirsty may also attack kits. If a doe attacks her kits, remove the kits immediately and provide them to a foster doe if available. Evaluate the doe for health problems and ensure she has adequate feed and water. Does that repeatedly attack their kits should be culled. ## Welfare and Safety Context Rabbit production involves responsibilities for animal welfare, worker safety, and [food safety](/knowledge/bacteria/livestock-bacteria/cooking-chicken-bacteria-prevention). Understanding these considerations helps you manage the production cycle ethically and legally. ### Animal Welfare Considerations Rabbits are sentient animals that experience pain, stress, and fear. The Five Freedoms of animal welfare provide a framework for managing rabbits: freedom from hunger and thirst, freedom from discomfort, freedom from pain, injury, or disease, freedom to express normal behavior, and freedom from fear and distress. Provide adequate space for each rabbit to move, stretch, and stand upright. The cage should be large enough for the rabbit to take three hops in any direction. Provide environmental enrichment, such as chew toys or tunnels, to allow rabbits to express natural behaviors. Handle rabbits gently and minimize stress during breeding, kindling, and weaning. The USDA National Agricultural Library provides resources on animal health and welfare (USDA National Agricultural Library, www.nal.usda.gov/animal-health-and-welfare). These resources include guidelines for housing, nutrition, and health care for rabbits and other livestock. ### Worker Safety Considerations Working with rabbits involves physical risks, including bites, scratches, and back injuries from lifting heavy cages or feed bags. Rabbits have strong hind legs and can kick, causing scratches or bruises. Does protecting their kits may bite when handled. Wear appropriate personal protective equipment, including gloves and long sleeves, when handling rabbits. Use proper lifting techniques when moving cages or feed. Keep work areas clean and free of tripping hazards. Have a first aid kit available and know how to treat rabbit bites and scratches. ### Food Safety Considerations If you are producing rabbits for meat, food safety is a critical consideration. The production cycle must be managed to minimize the risk of contamination and to ensure that the meat is safe for human consumption. This includes maintaining clean housing, providing clean feed and water, and managing waste properly. The FAO provides guidelines for rabbit production that include food safety considerations (FAO, www.fao.org/4/x5082e/x5082e00.htm). These guidelines cover housing, nutrition, health management, and slaughter practices. Follow all applicable regulations for meat production in your area. ### Professional Escalation Criteria Some problems require professional veterinary assistance. Seek veterinary help if you observe any of the following: a doe that is in labor for more than 30 minutes without delivering a kit, a doe that has not kindled by day 33 of gestation, a doe with signs of mastitis (hard, swollen, or discolored mammary gland), a doe with signs of milk fever (weakness, tremors, paralysis), kits that are not nursing and are losing weight, or any rabbit with signs of serious illness, such as diarrhea, respiratory distress, or neurological symptoms. A veterinarian can provide diagnosis, treatment, and advice on management changes. Establish a relationship with a veterinarian who has experience with rabbits before you need emergency services. This ensures you have access to professional help when problems arise. ## Frequently Asked Questions ### How long is the [rabbit gestation period](/knowledge/veterinary-medicine/small-mammal-care/rabbit-gestation-period-what-to-expect-from-breeding-to-kindling)? The [rabbit gestation period](/knowledge/veterinary-medicine/small-mammal-care/rabbit-gestation-period-what-to-expect-from-breeding-to-kindling) averages 31 days, with a normal range of 30 to 32 days. Does that have not kindled by day 33 should be evaluated by a veterinarian. The gestation period is consistent across most breeds, though slight variations occur. ### When can I rebreed my doe after kindling? Does can be rebred immediately after kindling, but most producers wait 14 to 21 days to allow the doe to recover body condition. Rebreeding at 14 days allows for a 42-day production cycle, while rebreeding at 21 days allows for a 49-day cycle. The optimal rebreeding interval depends on the doe's condition and the production system. ### How do I know if my doe is pregnant? Pregnancy can be confirmed by abdominal palpation at 10 to 14 days after mating. A skilled producer can feel the developing kits as small, marble-sized lumps in the doe's lower abdomen. Behavioral signs, such as refusal to mate and fur pulling, are not reliable for early pregnancy detection. The most reliable method is to observe for kindling at the expected date. ### What should I put in the nest box? Fill the nest box with clean, soft bedding material such as straw, hay, or wood shavings. Avoid dusty or moldy bedding that could cause respiratory problems in newborn kits. The doe will add her own fur to line the nest. Provide enough bedding to create a deep, warm nest that insulates the kits from the cage floor. ### How often do rabbits nurse their young? Does typically nurse their kits once or twice per day, usually at dawn and dusk. The kits receive highly concentrated milk that allows them to grow rapidly with infrequent nursing. The nursing session lasts only 3 to 5 minutes. Kits that are nursing adequately will have rounded bellies and will be warm and active. ### When should I wean rabbit kits? Weaning typically occurs at 28 to 42 days of age, depending on the production system and the condition of the doe and kits. Kits should weigh at least 400 to 500 grams before weaning, regardless of age. Early weaning at 28 days allows for more frequent breeding, while later weaning at 35 to 42 days gives kits more time to develop. ### How can I reduce pre-weaning mortality? Pre-weaning mortality can be reduced by ensuring the nest is warm and well-insulated, checking kits daily for signs of illness or injury, providing adequate nutrition to the doe during lactation, and minimizing stress in the rabbitry. Remove dead kits promptly to prevent disease spread. Does that consistently have high kit losses should be evaluated for health problems or culled. ### What do I do if my doe refuses to mate? If a doe refuses to mate, remove her from the buck's cage and try again the next day. Does that are not receptive will refuse mating by running away, hiding, or attacking the buck. Check the doe for signs of illness or stress. If the doe refuses mating for several consecutive days, evaluate her body condition and health. Some does are simply not receptive on certain days and will mate when ready. ## Related Farming Guides - [Rabbit Breeding Records And Mating Management](/knowledge/animal-farming/rabbits/rabbit-breeding-records-and-mating-management) - [Lentivirus Production](/blog/guides/plaque-assays-planning-controls-and-reporting-viral-titer) - [Rabbit Farm Production And Welfare Records](/knowledge/animal-farming/rabbits/rabbit-farm-production-and-welfare-records) - [Rabbit Cage And Colony Housing Decisions Welfare Hygiene And Management](/knowledge/animal-farming/rabbits/rabbit-cage-and-colony-housing-decisions-welfare-hygiene-and-management) - [Rabbit Manure Management And Composting On Small Farms](/knowledge/animal-farming/rabbits/rabbit-manure-management-and-composting-on-small-farms) ## 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. - [Bioenergetic-active exosomes for cartilage regeneration and homeostasis maintenance.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39423269). Science advances, 2024. - [Environmental impact of rabbit production systems: a farm-based cradle-to-gate analysis.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40222198). Animal : an international journal of animal bioscience, 2025. - [Environmental impact of rabbit meat: The effect of production efficiency.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30055437). Meat science, 2018. - [Novel regulators of rabbit reproductive functions.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24957967). Animal reproduction science, 2014. - [Model systems of human papillomavirus-associated disease.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26456009). The Journal of pathology, 2016. - [Cloning by somatic cell nuclear transfer.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9819572). BioEssays : news and reviews in molecular, cellular and [developmental biology](/blog/careers/developmental-biology), 1998. - [Life cycle assessment of pasture-based agrivoltaic systems: Emissions and energy use of integrated rabbit production](https://doi.org/10.1016/j.clrc.2021.100030). Cleaner and Responsible Consumption, 2021. - [Natural nutraceutical feed additives as antibiotic alternatives in rabbit production](https://doi.org/10.2478/aoas-2025-0128). Annals of Animal Science, 2026. - [The sexual cycle in reflexively ovulating rabbits](https://api.elsevier.com/content/abstract/scopus_id/17044450524). Fiziologicheskii Zhurnal Imeni I M Sechenova Rossiiskaia Akademiia Nauk, 1993. - [Analysis of the relationship between caecal flora difference and production performance of two rabbit species by high-throughput sequencing](https://doi.org/10.17221/225/2020-CJAS). Czech Journal of Animal Science, 2021. > This article is educational and is not a substitute for veterinary diagnosis, treatment, public-health guidance, or regulatory reporting.