3/11/2022 0 Comments Breeding Like Rabbits... Or Not?The old saying "Breeding like Rabbits" can be a frustrating thing to hear when you can't get your rabbits to mate. The doe won't lift, the buck isn't interested, the doe runs or acts aggressively to the buck. There are a few factors that can cause rabbits not breed. Rabbits are generally seasonal breeders, meaning their biological clock ticks only during the months of the year where days are longer. During the winter, both parties may lose interest in the birds and the bees. These biological instincts kept our domestic rabbits' ancestors from having babies in the winter and freezing. If you keep your rabbits outdoors, wintertime will just be a break from breeding for them, but if you keep them indoors or in a barn or shed, they can be tricked into breeding. Artificial lights on for at least 10-12 hours a day should do the trick, mimicking the lighting of summer. Another factor is how you pair your rabbits. Does are very territorial of their hutch, so it is important to bring the doe to the buck's cage. This will help prevent fighting, as well as keeping the buck from getting distracted. I personally stay and observe for breeding, separating after 2+ "fall-offs", or if fighting begins. Then I return the doe to her hutch. Successful mating is very quick, so you will know if both buck, and doe are apt to breeding within a few minutes. Another way to check if your doe may be ready, is to examine her vulva, if it is a dark pink or red, she may be more receptive. Young or inexperienced rabbits may have more issues their first-time breeding. Depending on breed, wait until buck and doe are 6-10 months of age. Dwarf breeds are ready sooner than giant breeds. Sounds crazy, but sometimes certain pairs just don't like each other. I had a buck that all of my does just didn't care for, no matter what they wouldn't lift. I sold him and bought another buck, and they lifted the first time I tried pairing them. Now before you go replacing your buck (or doe), give them several tries together. Some people swear by adding apple cider vinegar to their water or taking the doe for a car ride. In my experience, time trumps all. Try breeding at different times of the day, try and wait a couple days and try again, try bringing both of them to a whole new cage to meet. In most cases, they will eventually do the deed. Don't give up! If you get lucky, you'll see results like this beautiful litter on the left. -Carrie
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AuthorMy name is Carrie, I have a passion for animals and a knack for self-sufficiency. Follow my blog for our family's homesteading adventures and educational posts as well! ArchivesCategories |