# [Rabbit Production](/knowledge/animal-farming/rabbits/rabbit-welfare-and-enrichment-meeting-behavioral-needs-in-production-systems) Systems: Intensive, Semi-Intensive, and Extensive Models ## Key Takeaways - Intensive rabbit production systems prioritize disease prevention and waste management through climate-controlled housing, individual cages, and high labor input for daily health checks and sanitation, achieving the highest output per animal. - Semi-intensive systems balance resource allocation by utilizing colony pens with outdoor access, requiring moderate labor for group management and predator control, and typically exhibit seasonal breeding patterns with moderate output. - Extensive systems minimize capital and labor inputs by relying on free-range or minimal shelter, leading to the lowest output per animal and exposing rabbits to higher risks of predation and environmental variability. - Key performance indicators across all systems include kits born alive per litter, kits weaned per litter, mortality rates, average daily gain, and feed conversion ratio, with specific management focuses varying by system intensity. - Common failure patterns in intensive systems include inadequate ventilation and biosecurity, while semi-intensive systems face challenges with group aggression and parasite buildup, and extensive systems are prone to high mortality from predators and environmental extremes. --- ## At a Glance This article compares intensive, semi-intensive, and extensive rabbit production systems to help farmers evaluate options for enterprise planning. Each system differs in housing, labor requirements, output potential, and management intensity. The table below summarizes key differences across the three models. | System Type | Housing | Labor per Animal | Typical Output | Primary Management Focus | |-------------|---------|------------------|----------------|--------------------------| | Intensive | Individual cages in climate-controlled buildings | High (daily feeding, cleaning, health checks) | Highest per animal, controlled breeding cycles | Disease prevention, ventilation, waste management | | Semi-Intensive | Colony pens with outdoor access or sheltered runs | Moderate (group feeding, periodic health monitoring) | Moderate, seasonal breeding patterns | Group dynamics, predator control, parasite management | | Extensive | Free-range or minimal shelter | Low (occasional feeding, basic health checks) | Lowest per animal, seasonal, variable | Predator protection, forage management, minimal intervention | ## Scope and Reader Context This article is for farmers evaluating rabbit production system options for enterprise planning. It covers housing, labor, output, and management decisions across intensive, semi-intensive, and extensive models. The content draws on published sources including the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), the Merck Veterinary Manual, the USDA Agricultural Research Service, and peer-reviewed studies. Farmers should use this comparison to match system choice to their resources, climate, market access, and labor availability. ## Core Principles of Rabbit Production Systems Rabbit production systems exist on a continuum from fully controlled indoor environments to minimal intervention outdoor setups. The choice of system affects every aspect of farm management including housing design, feeding programs, breeding schedules, disease control, and labor allocation. The FAO provides guidance on rabbit production systems and their management across different scales and climates (www.fao.org/4/x5082e/x5082e00.htm). Three primary factors drive system selection: climate control capability, labor availability, and market requirements. Intensive systems require significant capital investment in housing and environmental controls but offer the highest output per animal and per square meter. Extensive systems require minimal capital but produce lower output and expose animals to environmental and predation risks. Semi-intensive systems balance these factors for farmers with moderate resources. The Merck Veterinary Manual notes that rabbits have specific health and welfare requirements that vary with housing density and environmental conditions (www.merckvetmanual.com/exotic-and-laboratory-animals/rabbits). Farmers must understand these requirements before selecting a system. ## Intensive Rabbit Production Systems ### Housing and Environmental Control Intensive rabbit production uses individual cages or small group pens inside climate-controlled buildings. The FAO describes intensive systems as those where rabbits are housed in cages with controlled temperature, humidity, and ventilation (www.fao.org/4/x5082e/x5082e00.htm). Buildings are typically insulated and equipped with mechanical ventilation systems to maintain optimal conditions. Cage design in intensive systems prioritizes hygiene and ease of management. Wire mesh floors allow waste to fall through into collection trays or pits below. This design reduces contact between rabbits and feces, lowering disease transmission risk. Cage dimensions must provide adequate space for the rabbit to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably. The Merck Veterinary Manual emphasizes that housing must meet species-specific behavioral needs (www.merckvetmanual.com/exotic-and-laboratory-animals/rabbits). Environmental control in intensive systems includes temperature regulation between 15 and 21 degrees Celsius, relative humidity between 50 and 70 percent, and adequate ventilation to remove ammonia and moisture. Automated systems can monitor and adjust these parameters. The USDA Agricultural Research Service conducts research on housing systems that optimize rabbit health and productivity (www.ars.usda.gov/). ### Breeding and Reproduction Management Intensive systems allow year-round breeding through controlled lighting and temperature. Does can be bred every 30 to 35 days, producing 8 to 10 litters per year under optimal management. The FAO notes that intensive breeding schedules require careful attention to doe nutrition and body condition (www.fao.org/4/x5082e/x5082e00.htm). Artificial insemination is common in large-scale intensive operations. This technique allows precise timing of births and reduces the need for buck-to-doe ratios. The FAO Animal Production and Health division provides resources on reproductive management in commercial rabbit production (www.fao.org/animal-production/en). Nest boxes are provided in cages for kindling. These boxes must be clean, dry, and lined with appropriate bedding material. Does typically kindle in the nest box and nurse kits once or twice daily. Kits are weaned at 28 to 35 days of age depending on growth rates and management goals. ### Feeding and Nutrition Intensive systems use complete pelleted feeds formulated for specific production stages: growing, breeding, and lactation. The FAO recommends feeding programs that meet the nutritional requirements of each production stage (www.fao.org/4/x5082e/x5082e00.htm). Pelleted feeds provide balanced nutrition and reduce selective feeding behavior. Feed is provided in hoppers or troughs designed to minimize waste and contamination. Water is supplied through nipple drinkers or automatic watering systems. Daily feed intake varies by rabbit size, production stage, and environmental temperature. Farmers must monitor feed consumption as a key indicator of health and performance. ### Labor Requirements Intensive systems require daily labor for feeding, watering, health checks, and cleaning. A typical labor allocation is one full-time worker per 500 to 1000 breeding does depending on facility design and automation level. Tasks include: - Daily inspection of all animals for signs of illness or injury - Feeding and watering system checks - Removal of dead or sick animals - Cleaning of cages and waste collection systems - Record keeping for breeding, production, and health events The FAO emphasizes that labor quality and consistency are critical in intensive systems because animals are entirely dependent on caretakers for their needs (www.fao.org/4/x5082e/x5082e00.htm). ### Output and Productivity Intensive systems produce the highest output per animal. Does can produce 40 to 60 kits per year under optimal management. Growing rabbits reach market weight of 2.0 to 2.5 kilograms in 8 to 12 weeks depending on breed and feeding program. The FAO reports that intensive systems can achieve feed conversion ratios of 3.0 to 3.5 kilograms of feed per kilogram of live weight gain (www.fao.org/4/x5082e/x5082e00.htm). A study on production performance of indigenous rabbits under traditional and intensive production systems in Northern Pakistan compared outcomes across system types (www.api.elsevier.com/content/abstract/scopus_id/85014613336). The study provides comparative data on growth and reproduction under different management intensities. ## Semi-Intensive Rabbit Production Systems ### Housing Design Semi-intensive systems use colony pens with sheltered areas and outdoor access. Pens may house 10 to 30 rabbits depending on size and management. The FAO describes semi-intensive systems as those where rabbits are kept in groups with access to both indoor shelter and outdoor runs (www.fao.org/4/x5082e/x5082e00.htm). Shelter design in semi-intensive systems must provide protection from weather extremes, predators, and direct sunlight. Roofed areas with solid walls on at least three sides offer adequate protection. Flooring can be earth, concrete, or wire mesh depending on drainage and hygiene requirements. Earth floors require regular cleaning and replacement of contaminated bedding. Outdoor runs should be fenced with predator-proof materials buried at least 30 centimeters into the ground to prevent digging. The run area should provide shade and shelter options. The USDA National Agricultural Library provides resources on animal health and welfare considerations for outdoor housing systems (www.nal.usda.gov/animal-health-and-welfare). ### Group Management Semi-intensive systems require careful group management to minimize aggression and injury. Rabbits are social animals but can be territorial. The Merck Veterinary Manual notes that group housing must consider social dynamics and provide sufficient space to reduce conflict (www.merckvetmanual.com/exotic-and-laboratory-animals/rabbits). Best practices for group management include: - Introducing rabbits to groups at weaning age to establish stable hierarchies - Maintaining consistent group composition to reduce fighting - Providing multiple feeding and watering points to reduce competition - Removing aggressive individuals promptly - Separating breeding does during kindling and early lactation Bucks should be housed separately from does except during controlled breeding periods. Group pens for growing rabbits can house littermates together until market weight. ### Breeding Management Semi-intensive systems typically follow seasonal breeding patterns. Breeding is concentrated in spring and autumn when temperatures are moderate and natural forage is available. Does may produce 4 to 6 litters per year depending on climate and management. Natural mating is the primary breeding method in semi-intensive systems. Does are moved to a buck's pen for mating and returned to their group pen afterward. The FAO recommends controlled breeding schedules even in semi-intensive systems to maintain production consistency (www.fao.org/4/x5082e/x5082e00.htm). Nest boxes are provided in sheltered areas for kindling. Does in group pens may share nest boxes or compete for preferred locations. Providing multiple nest boxes reduces competition and improves kit survival. ### Feeding and Forage Semi-intensive systems combine pelleted feed with fresh forage or pasture. The FAO notes that rabbits in semi-intensive systems can utilize a variety of forages including grasses, legumes, and browse plants (www.fao.org/4/x5082e/x5082e00.htm). Forage provides fiber and nutrients while reducing feed costs. Supplemental pelleted feed is provided to meet nutritional requirements that forage alone cannot satisfy. Growing rabbits and lactating does require higher protein and energy levels than maintenance animals. Feed amounts are adjusted based on forage quality and animal condition. Water must be available at all times in both sheltered and outdoor areas. Automatic waterers or clean containers should be checked daily for contamination and function. ### Labor Requirements Semi-intensive systems require moderate labor input. Daily tasks include: - Feeding and watering checks - Group health observations - Shelter cleaning and bedding replacement - Predator checks and fence maintenance - Forage management and pasture rotation Labor requirements are lower per animal than intensive systems because group feeding and cleaning are more efficient. However, individual animal monitoring is more difficult in groups, and health problems may go unnoticed longer. ### Output and Productivity Output in semi-intensive systems is lower than intensive systems due to seasonal breeding and less controlled conditions. Does typically produce 20 to 30 kits per year. Growing rabbits reach market weight in 12 to 16 weeks depending on breed, nutrition, and season. Feed conversion ratios in semi-intensive systems are higher (less efficient) than intensive systems because animals expend energy on movement and temperature regulation. The FAO reports that semi-intensive systems can achieve acceptable productivity when managed well (www.fao.org/4/x5082e/x5082e00.htm). ## Extensive Rabbit Production Systems ### Housing and Shelter Extensive rabbit production uses minimal housing with rabbits kept in large enclosures or free-range areas. The FAO describes extensive systems as those where rabbits are kept outdoors with minimal shelter and management intervention (www.fao.org/4/x5082e/x5082e00.htm). Shelter in extensive systems consists of simple structures that provide protection from rain, sun, and predators. Examples include: - Three-sided sheds with roof - Natural burrows or artificial warrens - Brush piles or vegetation cover - Portable hutches moved to fresh pasture The USDA Agricultural Research Service studies low-input production systems that may apply to extensive rabbit management (www.ars.usda.gov/). These systems prioritize animal adaptation to local conditions over productivity. ### Breeding and Reproduction Extensive systems rely on natural breeding with minimal human intervention. Does kindle in burrows or sheltered areas without nest box provision. Kit survival depends on maternal behavior, predator pressure, and environmental conditions. Breeding is seasonal, typically occurring in spring and summer when conditions are favorable. Does may produce 2 to 4 litters per year. The FAO notes that extensive systems have lower reproductive efficiency due to higher kit mortality and longer intervals between litters (www.fao.org/4/x5082e/x5082e00.htm). ### Feeding and Nutrition Rabbits in extensive systems obtain most of their nutrition from natural forage. The FAO emphasizes that rabbits are herbivores adapted to high-fiber diets (www.fao.org/4/x5082e/x5082e00.htm). Forage intake varies with plant species, season, and availability. Supplemental feeding may be provided during periods of low forage quality or quantity. Common supplements include hay, grains, and kitchen scraps. However, extensive systems are designed to minimize purchased inputs. Water sources in extensive systems include natural streams, ponds, or provided water containers. Water quality must be monitored to prevent disease transmission from contaminated sources. ### Labor Requirements Extensive systems require the lowest labor input of the three models. Tasks are limited to: - Periodic health checks - Supplemental feeding during scarcity - Predator control measures - Fence and shelter maintenance - Harvesting animals for market The FAO notes that extensive systems are appropriate for farmers with limited labor or other enterprises that compete for time (www.fao.org/4/x5082e/x5082e00.htm). ### Output and Productivity Output in extensive systems is low per animal and per unit area. Does may produce 10 to 20 kits per year with high mortality rates. Growing rabbits reach market weight in 16 to 24 weeks or longer depending on forage quality and season. Feed conversion is not typically measured in extensive systems because animals obtain most nutrition from natural forage. The primary output is meat for home consumption or local markets with low input costs. ## Practical Implementation Steps ### Step 1: Assess Resources and Goals Before selecting a system, farmers should evaluate: - Available land area and quality - Climate conditions and seasonal extremes - Capital for housing and equipment - Labor availability and skill level - Market access and price expectations - Personal production goals The FAO provides guidance on matching production systems to farmer resources and market conditions (www.fao.org/4/x5082e/x5082e00.htm). ### Step 2: Select System Type Based on the assessment, choose the system that best fits resources and goals. Consider starting with a smaller scale to gain experience before expanding. The Merck Veterinary Manual recommends that new rabbit farmers begin with manageable numbers and simple housing (www.merckvetmanual.com/exotic-and-laboratory-animals/rabbits). ### Step 3: Design Housing Housing design must meet the specific requirements of the chosen system. Key considerations include: - Space allowances per animal - Ventilation and temperature control - Waste management - Predator protection - Ease of cleaning and maintenance The FAO Animal Production and Health division provides technical resources on housing design for different production systems (www.fao.org/animal-production/en). ### Step 4: Establish Breeding Program Develop a breeding program that matches the system type. Intensive systems require controlled breeding schedules with record keeping. Semi-intensive and extensive systems can use natural mating with seasonal timing. ### Step 5: Implement Feeding Program Design a feeding program based on available feed resources and animal requirements. Intensive systems rely on complete pelleted feeds. Semi-intensive systems combine pellets with forage. Extensive systems use natural forage with minimal supplementation. ### Step 6: Develop Health Management Plan All systems require a health management plan that includes: - Vaccination protocols where applicable - Parasite control measures - Quarantine procedures for new animals - Biosecurity practices - Emergency treatment protocols The USDA National Agricultural Library provides resources on animal health and welfare that apply to rabbit production (www.nal.usda.gov/animal-health-and-welfare). ## Records and Measurements ### Essential Records Farmers should maintain records for each production system. The FAO emphasizes that record keeping is essential for monitoring performance and making management decisions (www.fao.org/4/x5082e/x5082e00.htm). Key records include: - Breeding dates and outcomes - Litter size and kit survival - Weaning weights and growth rates - Feed consumption and costs - Health events and treatments - Mortality and culling reasons - Sales and income A study on design and implementation of production supervising systems for large scale rabbit farms demonstrates the value of systematic data collection in commercial operations (www.doi.org/10.11975/j.issn.1002-6819.2015.22.031). ### Performance Indicators Track these performance indicators to evaluate system effectiveness: - Kits born alive per litter - Kits weaned per litter - Pre-weaning mortality rate - Post-weaning mortality rate - Average daily gain - [Feed conversion ratio](/knowledge/animal-farming/poultry/feed-conversion-ratio-measuring-improving-poultry-efficiency) - Does bred per month - Litters per doe per year ### Health Monitoring Daily health observations should include: - Appetite and feed intake - Water consumption - Fecal consistency and quantity - Respiratory rate and character - Coat condition and cleanliness - Eye and nose discharge - Mobility and posture - Behavior changes The Merck Veterinary Manual provides guidance on recognizing signs of illness in rabbits (www.merckvetmanual.com/exotic-and-laboratory-animals/rabbits). ## Common Failure Patterns ### Intensive System Failures - Inadequate ventilation leading to respiratory disease and ammonia buildup - Overcrowding causing stress, aggression, and disease spread - Poor waste management resulting in fly problems and hygiene issues - Temperature fluctuations affecting breeding and growth - Feed quality problems causing digestive disorders - Inadequate biosecurity allowing disease introduction ### Semi-Intensive System Failures - Predator losses from inadequate fencing or shelter - Aggression and injuries in poorly managed groups - Parasite buildup from contaminated soil or bedding - Nutritional deficiencies from unbalanced forage and supplement programs - Disease spread through group contact - Seasonal production gaps affecting market supply ### Extensive System Failures - High mortality from predators, weather, and disease - Low reproductive output and kit survival - Inbreeding depression in closed populations - Difficulty monitoring individual animal health - Variable product quality and market acceptance - Land degradation from overgrazing ## Limitations and Tradeoffs ### Intensive System Limitations Intensive systems require significant capital investment in housing, environmental controls, and automation. Operating costs for feed, electricity, and labor are high. The FAO notes that intensive systems are most viable where markets can support higher production costs (www.fao.org/4/x5082e/x5082e00.htm). Disease risk in intensive systems is elevated due to high animal density. Biosecurity protocols must be strict to prevent disease introduction and spread. The Merck Veterinary Manual emphasizes that disease prevention is critical in intensive rabbit production (www.merckvetmanual.com/exotic-and-laboratory-animals/rabbits). ### Semi-Intensive System Limitations Semi-intensive systems require more land than intensive systems and are more exposed to environmental variation. Group management requires skill in observing and managing social dynamics. The FAO recommends semi-intensive systems for farmers with moderate resources and some experience (www.fao.org/4/x5082e/x5082e00.htm). ### Extensive System Limitations Extensive systems produce the lowest output per animal and per unit area. Product quality and consistency are variable. The FAO notes that extensive systems are best suited for subsistence production or niche markets that value low-input products (www.fao.org/4/x5082e/x5082e00.htm). ## Welfare and Safety Context ### Animal Welfare Considerations Each production system presents different welfare challenges. The Merck Veterinary Manual states that rabbit welfare depends on appropriate housing, nutrition, health care, and handling (www.merckvetmanual.com/exotic-and-laboratory-animals/rabbits). Intensive systems must provide adequate space, environmental enrichment, and social contact where appropriate. Wire floors can cause foot lesions if not properly designed. The USDA National Agricultural Library provides resources on welfare standards for farmed rabbits (www.nal.usda.gov/animal-health-and-welfare). Semi-intensive systems allow more natural behaviors but expose animals to social stress and environmental hazards. Group housing requires careful management to prevent injuries from aggression. Extensive systems allow the most natural behavior but expose animals to predation, weather extremes, and disease. Welfare monitoring is difficult in extensive systems. ### Worker Safety Rabbit production involves several worker safety considerations: - Lifting heavy feed bags and equipment - Bites and scratches from handling rabbits - Respiratory hazards from dust and ammonia - Slips and falls on wet surfaces - Zoonotic disease risks The FAO recommends training workers in safe handling techniques and providing appropriate personal protective equipment (www.fao.org/4/x5082e/x5082e00.htm). ### [Food Safety](/knowledge/bacteria/livestock-bacteria/cooking-chicken-bacteria-prevention) Rabbit meat for human consumption must meet food safety standards. The FAO provides guidance on hygienic production practices for rabbit meat (www.fao.org/4/x5082e/x5082e00.htm). Key food safety measures include: - Clean housing and equipment - Proper slaughter and processing hygiene - Temperature control during storage and transport - Traceability systems for product recall - Withdrawal periods for any medications used ### Biosecurity Biosecurity is essential in all production systems. The USDA Agricultural Research Service conducts research on disease prevention in livestock production (www.ars.usda.gov/). Biosecurity measures include: - Quarantine of new animals for 30 days - Restricted visitor access - Dedicated clothing and footwear for animal areas - Cleaning and disinfection protocols - Rodent and pest control - Dead animal disposal procedures ## Professional Escalation Criteria Farmers should seek professional assistance when: - Mortality rates exceed 5 percent in any age group without identifiable cause - Respiratory disease signs persist despite improved ventilation - Diarrhea outbreaks affect multiple animals - Reproductive problems such as low conception rates or small litter sizes continue for more than two breeding cycles - Skin lesions or abscesses appear in multiple animals - Neurological signs such as head tilt, circling, or paralysis are observed - Feed refusal or reduced intake affects more than 10 percent of animals - Water consumption changes dramatically The Merck Veterinary Manual recommends consulting a veterinarian with rabbit expertise for diagnosis and treatment of health problems (www.merckvetmanual.com/exotic-and-laboratory-animals/rabbits). ## Frequently Asked Questions ### What is the best rabbit production system for a beginner farmer? The best system for a beginner depends on available resources and goals. Semi-intensive systems with 10 to 20 breeding does in colony pens offer a manageable starting point. This system requires moderate investment and allows learning basic management skills before scaling up. The FAO recommends starting small and expanding as experience grows (www.fao.org/4/x5082e/x5082e00.htm). ### How much does it cost to start an intensive rabbit farm? Startup costs for intensive [rabbit farming](/knowledge/animal-farming/rabbits/rabbit-farming-housing-feeding-breeding-welfare-and-health-observation) vary widely by scale and location. Major expenses include climate-controlled housing, cages, feeding and watering systems, and breeding stock. The FAO provides guidance on estimating costs for different production scales (www.fao.org/4/x5082e/x5082e00.htm). Farmers should develop a detailed business plan before investing. ### Can rabbits be raised on pasture only? Rabbits can obtain nutrition from pasture and forage, but production will be lower than with supplemented feeding. Extensive systems rely primarily on natural forage but may require supplemental feed during periods of low forage quality. The FAO notes that rabbits are efficient converters of forage to meat but perform best with balanced nutrition (www.fao.org/4/x5082e/x5082e00.htm). ### How many rabbits can be kept in a colony pen? Colony pen size depends on rabbit age, breed, and management system. General guidelines suggest 0.5 to 1.0 square meters per adult rabbit in group housing. The Merck Veterinary Manual emphasizes that space allowances must consider rabbit size and social dynamics (www.merckvetmanual.com/exotic-and-laboratory-animals/rabbits). Overcrowding increases aggression and disease risk. ### What are the main disease risks in intensive rabbit systems? Respiratory diseases, digestive disorders, and reproductive problems are common in intensive systems. High animal density and environmental stress increase disease susceptibility. The Merck Veterinary Manual lists common rabbit diseases and their management (www.merckvetmanual.com/exotic-and-laboratory-animals/rabbits). Good ventilation, hygiene, and biosecurity reduce disease risk. ### How often should rabbit cages be cleaned in intensive systems? Cage cleaning frequency depends on design and waste management system. Wire mesh floors with waste collection trays may require cleaning every 2 to 7 days. Deep pit systems may be cleaned less frequently. The FAO recommends cleaning schedules that maintain hygiene without causing excessive stress to animals (www.fao.org/4/x5082e/x5082e00.htm). ### Is artificial insemination necessary for commercial rabbit production? Artificial insemination is common in large-scale intensive operations but is not necessary for smaller farms. Natural mating works well in semi-intensive and extensive systems. The FAO Animal Production and Health division provides information on reproductive technologies for rabbit production (www.fao.org/animal-production/en). Farmers should choose breeding methods that match their scale and management capacity. ### What is the typical lifespan of a breeding doe in each system? Breeding doe lifespan varies by system and management. In intensive systems, does are typically culled after 12 to 18 months of production due to declining fertility and health issues. Semi-intensive and extensive systems may keep does for 2 to 3 years. The FAO notes that culling decisions should be based on individual performance records (www.fao.org/4/x5082e/x5082e00.htm). ## Related Farming Guides - [Lentivirus Production](/blog/guides/plaque-assays-planning-controls-and-reporting-viral-titer) - [Systems Biology](/blog/news/systems-biology) - [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 Farming Housing Feeding Breeding Welfare And Health Observation](/knowledge/animal-farming/rabbits/rabbit-farming-housing-feeding-breeding-welfare-and-health-observation) ## 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. - [Design and implementation of production supervising system for large scale rabbit farm](https://doi.org/10.11975/j.issn.1002-6819.2015.22.031). Nongye Gongcheng Xuebao Transactions of the Chinese Society of Agricultural Engineering, 2015. - [Production performance of indigenous rabbits under traditional and intensive production systems in Northern Pakistan](https://api.elsevier.com/content/abstract/scopus_id/85014613336). Journal of Animal and Plant Sciences, 2017. > This article is educational and is not a substitute for veterinary diagnosis, treatment, public-health guidance, or regulatory reporting.