Raising Meat Rabbits: A Simple Beginner Guide

Raising meat rabbits is a rewarding venture that combines sustainability, self-sufficiency, and a steady source of high-quality meat. Whether you’re a small homesteader looking to add a new dimension to your farm or a beginner intrigued by the idea of raising rabbit meat, understanding the basics is important for success.

1. Choosing the Right Meat Rabbit Breed

Selecting the appropriate breed is one of the first and most crucial steps in raising meat rabbits. Different breeds offer various advantages, and your choice will depend on your specific needs and goals. Here, I will highlight some of the top meat rabbit breeds that are well known for their excellent meat production and ease of care.

Overview of Popular Meat Rabbit Breeds

Silver Fox

Overview: The Silver Fox, a heritage breed, was once rare. This breed has made a comeback over the last few years. This versatile breed is known for its striking appearance and excellent meat quality. It is known for its gentle nature and good mothering abilities as well.
Characteristics: They have a unique, silver-tipped fur and come in black, blue, and chocolate varieties. Silver Fox rabbits are large and well-muscled.
Why Choose Them: They are excellent for both meat and fur production, with a calm temperament that makes them easy to manage.

Rex

Overview: Rex rabbits are primarily known for their plush fur, but they are also good meat producers. Their dense, velvety fur and substantial meat make them a dual-purpose breed.
Characteristics: They come in a variety of colors and have a distinctive short, velvety coat. Rex rabbits are known for their friendly and curious nature.
Why Choose Them: They provide quality meat while also offering valuable fur.

Champagne d’Argent

Overview: The Champagne d’Argent is an old French breed known for its luxurious fur and high-quality meat. It’s a versatile breed suitable for both meat and fur production.
Characteristics: They have a unique silvery coat that develops as they age, starting as black kits and turning silver.
Why Choose Them: Besides their appealing fur, they are excellent meat producers with a rich, flavorful meat.

Californian

Overview: Another leading breed in meat production, the Californian rabbit, is a cross between the New Zealand White and the Chinchilla. This breed has fine-quality meat and fur.
Characteristics: Californians are white with distinctive black markings on their ears, nose, feet, and tail. They are known for their robust build and good nature.
Why Choose Them: They offer a good balance of meat quality and quantity, with a strong bone structure and high meat-to-bone ratio.

New Zealand

Characteristics: They are typically white with red eyes, although other colors like black and red exist. They have a calm temperament and are relatively easy to handle.
Why Choose Them: High growth rate, excellent meat yield, and ease of breeding make them a staple in meat rabbit farming
Overview: The New Zealand rabbit is one of the most popular breeds for meat production. Known for their rapid growth rate and high feed-to-meat conversion efficiency, they are a top choice for many rabbit farmers.

Factors to Consider When Selecting a Breed

Growth Rate

The growth rate of a rabbit is important for meat production efficiency. Faster-growing breeds reach target weight more quickly, reducing feed costs and less time investment. Choose breeds with a proven record of fast growth to maximize your productivity and profitability.

Temperament

A rabbit’s temperament affects ease of handling and overall management. Calm and friendly rabbits are easier to care for and less likely to cause injury or stress to handlers. Breeds like the Rex and Silver Fox are known for their gentle and calm nature, making them ideal for both new and experienced rabbit breeders. Select breeds that are known for their docile temperament to make handling easier.

Climate Adaptability

Rabbits must be able to thrive in the climate of your region. Some breeds are better suited to hot or cold environments, impacting their health and productivity. The New Zealand and Champagne d’Argent breeds are highly adaptable to a range of climates, making them versatile choices for various climates. Evaluate the climate adaptability of the breeds you are considering to ensure they will remain healthy and productive in your specific environment. Most rabbits prefer cold weather as opposed to hot weather. Living in New Hampshire where we get lots of snow and below freezing temps, I have never had to supplement heat for them. My Silver Fox rabbits thrive in the winter!

Where to Buy Meat Rabbits

Acquiring high-quality meat rabbits is a crucial step in establishing a successful rabbit meat operation. There are several sources where you can purchase meat rabbits, each with its own set of advantages and considerations. Here are the primary sources:

1. Local Breeders

Local breeders often provide well-cared-for rabbits with known health histories. Breeders can offer valuable insights and ongoing support based on their experience. Easier to visit and inspect the breeding facility in person. Breeds and quantities may be limited depending on the breeder’s stock. Can vary widely based on the breeder’s reputation and the quality of the rabbits.

2. Farms

Farms often have a larger selection of breeds and more rabbits available. Established farms typically have extensive experience and may offer higher-quality animals. Easier to buy larger quantities if you’re starting a bigger operation. Farms may be located farther away, potentially requiring travel or shipping arrangements. Prices might be higher for high-quality, farm-raised rabbits.

3. Online Sources

You can find access to a broader range of breeders and farms across different regions through online resources. It’s easy to find specific breeds that may not be available locally when searching online. Here are a couple online resources to check out!

2. Housing for Meat Rabbits

Types of Housing for Meat Rabbits: Hutches vs. Colonies

When setting up your meat rabbit operation, choosing the right housing is essential for the health and productivity of your rabbits. Two popular housing options are individual hutches and colony setups. Each has its own advantages and disadvantages, which are important to consider based on your specific needs and circumstances.

Hutches

Hutches are enclosures that have a couple different stalls to house rabbits individually. Each breeder has its own stall. The does stall should have plenty of space to house both her and the baby kits. You can also use a hutch to house grow out meat rabbits as well.

Pros: Easier to monitor and manage the health and diet of each rabbit. Reduced risk of disease spread compared to colony setups. Easier to control breeding pairs and prevent unwanted litters. And easier to clean and maintain hygiene for each rabbit. Hutches built with a wire floor are great, all the waist from the rabbit falls right through the wire.

Cons: Requires more space as each rabbit needs its own hutch. More expensive to build or purchase multiple hutches compared to a single colony setup. More time-consuming to feed, water, and clean each hutch individually.

Colonies

Colony housing involves keeping multiple rabbits together in a larger, communal living space. This setup is a more natural set up for the rabbits.

Pros: Rabbits can interact and socialize, which can lead to less boredom and stress. More rabbits can be housed in a smaller area compared to hutches. Generally cheaper to set up one large colony space than multiple individual hutches. Encourages natural behaviors such as digging and socializing.

Cons: Higher risk of disease transmission due to close contact among rabbits. More challenging to manage breeding and prevent unwanted litters. Potential for territorial disputes and aggression, especially among breeding males. More difficult to maintain cleanliness in a larger communal area.

When deciding between hutches and colony housing for your meat rabbits, consider factors such as space availability, budget, management style, and the health and well-being of your rabbits. Hutches offer better control and disease management but require more space and labor. Colonies are cost-effective and promote natural behaviors but come with challenges in disease control and breeding management. By weighing the pros and cons, you can choose the housing type that best suits your needs and ensures a productive and healthy Rabbitry.

Building or Buying a Rabbit Hutch

Proper housing is crucial for the health and productivity of meat rabbits. Whether you choose to build a DIY rabbit hutch or purchase a commercial one ( which I do not recommend), there are several considerations and tips to keep in mind. Below, I outline tips for a DIY rabbit hutch.

DIY Rabbit Hutch Plans and Tips

Building your own rabbit hutch is a cost-effective and customizable option. Here are some tips to help you create a functional and safe hutch for your meat rabbits.

Materials Needed:

Wire mesh (galvanized to prevent rusting) 6 gauge wire and the role is 30 inches wide, 1/2 x 1 inch mesh
Nails, screws, and hinges
Roofing materials (metal)
Latches for doors
3/4 inch poultry wire staples
Pressure-treated wood or weather-resistant plywood

Frame Construction:

Construct a sturdy wooden frame for the base, sides, and roof support.
Ensure the frame is elevated off the ground to prevent dampness and predator access.

Wire Mesh Installation

Attach wire mesh to the sides and floor of the hutch.
Use small mesh (no larger than 1/2 inch) for front and sides of the hutch.
Use 16 guage wire cloth for the bottem where the rabbits will be walking around. The holes in the mest should be 1/2 in x 1inch.

Roof and Shelter:

Install a slanted roof to allow rainwater runoff.
Use weather-resistant materials for the roof to protect rabbits from the elements.
Include a solid section for shelter where rabbits can escape the wind and cold. I chose to enclosed the sides of my hutches to keep wind and weather elements off of them. instead of using wire like I did on the front of the hutch.

Doors and Access:

Include a front door with secure latches for easy access to rabbits.

Tips:

Ensure adequate ventilation to prevent respiratory issues.
Check for sharp edges or protruding wires that could injure rabbits.
Use pressure treated wood on the outside of the hutch (legs of the hutch) and non pressure treated on the inside. Rabbits like to chew.

3. Feeding Schedule and Guidelines for Meat Rabbits

Proper nutrition is crucial for the growth and health of meat rabbits. Establishing a consistent feeding schedule and understanding the appropriate quantities of feed are important for raising healthy rabbits.

Feeding Schedule

Daily Feeding Routine:

Pick a time of day to feed your rabbits and check on them. I usually feed my rabbits once a day in the afternoon. In the winter months I check on my rabbits morning and evening to make sure they have fresh water!

Frequency:

Hay: Should be available at all times. Hay is a vital part of a rabbit’s diet, promoting healthy digestion and preventing dental issues.
Pellets: Typically fed once a day.
Fresh Vegetables and Greens: Can be offered daily. I always grow fresh greens in my garden just for my rabbits.

Water:

Fresh water should be available at all times.

How Much to Feed

Hay:

Quantity: Unlimited. Hay should make up the majority of a rabbit’s diet and be available at all times.
Type: High-quality grass hay, such as timothy, oat, or orchard grass. Alfalfa hay can be given to young rabbits but should be limited for adults due to its high calcium content. I just stick to Timothy hay.

Pellets:

Young Rabbits (up to 6 months): Free-feed pellets to support rapid growth.
Adult Rabbits (over 6 months): About 1/4 to 1/2 cup of high-quality pellets per 5 pounds of body weight per day. This varies depending on your rabbits. For example, If I have a pregnant Doe, she will get more feed during the second half of her pregnancy to support her pregnancy.
Type: Use a balanced, high-fiber commercial pellet.

Fresh Vegetables and Greens:

Quantity: About 1 cup per 2 pounds of body weight per day.
Type: Variety of leafy greens (e.g., romaine lettuce, kale, parsley) and vegetables (e.g., carrots, bell peppers). Introduce new foods gradually to avoid digestive upset.

Treats:

Quantity: Limit to small amounts, no more than 5% of the rabbit’s diet.
Type: Fruits (e.g., apple slices, berries) and safe vegetables. Avoid sugary or starchy treats.

4. Overview of Common Rabbit Diseases and Health Problems

Ensuring the health of your meat rabbits is important. Lets go over some common diseases and health issues. Below is an overview of some of the most common rabbit diseases and health problems, along with guidelines for prevention.

Common Rabbit Diseases and Health Problems

1. Pasteurellosis (Snuffles)

Symptoms: Nasal discharge, sneezing, head tilt, abscesses.
Cause: Bacterial infection (Pasteurella multocida).
Prevention: Maintain good hygiene, provide proper ventilation, and isolate new or sick rabbits.

2. Coccidiosis

Symptoms: Diarrhea, weight loss, dehydration, bloating.
Cause: Protozoan parasites (Eimeria species).
Prevention: Clean living conditions, regular sanitation, and prophylactic treatments.

3. Ear Mites (Psoroptes cuniculi)

Symptoms: Head shaking, ear scratching, crusty lesions in ears.
Cause: Parasitic infestation.
Prevention: Regular health checks, clean living conditions, and treating new rabbits before introducing them to the herd.

4. Dental Problems

Symptoms: Overgrown teeth, drooling, difficulty eating, weight loss.
Cause: Malocclusion or lack of proper wear on teeth.
Prevention: Providing hay to promote natural tooth wear and regular dental check-ups.

5. Gastrointestinal Stasis

Symptoms: Lack of appetite, small or no fecal pellets, lethargy, bloating.
Cause: Stress, dehydration, improper diet.
Prevention: High-fiber diet, regular exercise, stress reduction, and constant access to fresh water.

Preventative Measures

Hygiene and Sanitation

Regularly clean and disinfect hutches, feeding bowls, and water bottles to prevent the buildup of harmful bacteria and parasites.
Remove waste and soiled bedding daily to maintain a clean living environment.

Proper Nutrition

Provide a balanced diet with high-quality hay, fresh vegetables, and appropriate pellets.
Avoid sudden changes in diet to prevent digestive upset.

Regular Health Checks

Perform regular health checks on all rabbits to identify and address issues early.
Monitor for signs of illness, including changes in appetite, behavior, and physical condition.

Insect and Rodent Control

Use insect screens, fly traps, and other control methods to reduce the risk of diseases spread by insects and rodents.
Keep the rabbitry area free from standing water and food debris that attract pests.

5. Breeding Meat Rabbits

Choosing the right breeding pairs is crucial for the success of your meat rabbit operation. Here are the key factors and considerations to keep in mind when selecting rabbits for breeding:

Key Factors in Selecting Breeding Pairs

Genetic Quality

Health: Choose rabbits that are free from diseases and genetic defects. Healthy parents are more likely to produce healthy offspring.
Conformation: Select rabbits with good body structure, including strong legs, a broad back, and a well-muscled frame. These traits are desirable for meat production.
Breed Standards: Ensure that the rabbits conform to the standards of their breed, which can help maintain consistency in your herd.

Age and Maturity

Does (Female Rabbits): Should be at least 5-6 months old before their first breeding. Larger breeds sometimes take longer, about 8 months.
Bucks (Male Rabbits): Can start breeding around 6 months of age.

Temperament

Select rabbits with a calm and manageable temperament. Aggressive or overly timid rabbits can make handling difficult and stressful.

Productivity History

Does: Choose does with a good history of litter size, milk production, and mothering ability. A productive doe should have consistently large, healthy litters.
Bucks: Use bucks with proven fertility and a history of producing healthy, kits.

Genetic Diversity

Avoid inbreeding by selecting breeding pairs that are not closely related. Genetic diversity helps maintain a healthy rabbit population.

Breeding Process and Cycle

Understanding the rabbit breeding process and cycle is essential for managing a successful breeding program. Here’s a detailed overview:

The Breeding Process

Introduction of Buck and Doe

Place the doe in the buck’s cage (never the reverse, as does can be territorial).
Observe the mating process. The buck will mount the doe and, after a successful mating, usually falls off to the side.

Mating Confirmation

Allow the buck and doe to mate 2-3 times to ensure successful breeding.
Remove the doe after mating to prevent stress or aggression.

Post-Mating Care

Return the doe to her own cage and monitor her for signs of pregnancy, such as increased appetite and nesting behavior.

The Breeding Cycle

Gestation Period

The gestation period for rabbits is approximately 28-31 days.
Provide a nest box around day 25, filled with clean Aspen shavings and hay for the doe to prepare for kindling (giving birth).

Kindling

Does typically give birth at night. The average litter size ranges from 6-12 kits.
Check the nest box the following morning for kits, I usually wait to handle them a day or two later after birth.

Post-Kindling Care

Ensure the doe has plenty of water and high-quality feed to support milk production.
Inspect the kits regularly but handle them minimally during the first few days.

Weaning

Kits can start nibbling on hay and pellets around 3 weeks old.
Weaning occurs at 6-8 weeks of age. Gradually separate kits from the doe to minimize stress.

Rebreeding

Does can be re-bred shortly after weaning if they are in good health. I re breed my does when their kits are 6 weeks old.
Ensure the doe has recovered fully before rebreeding to maintain her health and productivity.

Special Care Requirements for Pregnant Rabbits and Kits

Care for Pregnant Rabbits

Nutrition

High-Quality Diet: Ensure the doe has a balanced diet rich in nutrients. Provide unlimited hay, high-quality pellets, and fresh vegetables.
Increased Nutrition: As pregnancy progresses, the doe’s nutritional needs will increase. Ensure she has enough protein and calories to support her and the developing kits. I always increase my does feed after day 15 of her pregnancy.
Water: Always provide fresh, clean water. Pregnant does require more water to stay hydrated and produce milk.

Nesting Preparation

Nest Box: Place a nest box in the doe’s cage around day 25 of pregnancy. Fill it with clean, soft bedding materials. I pot a layer of Aspen shavings on the bottom of the nest box and hay on top.
Check the Nest: Ensure the nest box is clean and free of contaminants. Replace soiled bedding as needed.

Care for Kits

Immediate Post-Kindling Care

Inspect the Nest: Check the nest box for live kits shortly after birth. Remove any dead kits to prevent contamination.
Minimal Handling: Avoid excessive handling of newborn kits to reduce stress.

Nutrition and Feeding

Doe’s Milk: Kits rely on the doe’s milk for the first few weeks. Ensure the doe has plenty of food and water to support milk production.

Cleanliness

Nest Box Maintenance: Keep the nest box clean and dry. Replace soiled bedding regularly to maintain a healthy environment for the kits.

Weaning and Raising Kits (Baby Rabbits)

Weaning Process

Introduction to Solid Food: Kits begin nibbling on hay and pellets around 3 weeks old. Provide easy access to these foods.
Gradual Weaning: Weaning usually occurs at 6-8 weeks of age. Gradually separate kits from the doe to minimize stress.
Balanced Diet: Ensure kits have a balanced diet of hay, pellets, and fresh water as they transition to solid food.

Post-Weaning Care

Separate Housing: Move weaned kits to their own cages or colony setup. I have a separate grow out hutch available for them.

Growth and Development

Regular Feeding: Continue providing a high-quality diet to support growth.
Clean Environment: Maintain clean living conditions to prevent disease and promote overall health.

6. Safe Ways to Handle and Interact with Rabbits

Proper handling and interaction with rabbits are essential for their well-being and your safety. Here are some techniques and tips to ensure safe and effective handling of meat rabbits.

General Handling Techniques

Approach Calmly

Quiet Environment: Approach rabbits in a calm and quiet manner to avoid startling them.
Speak Softly: Use a gentle voice to reassure the rabbit as you approach.

Secure the Rabbit

Support the Body: Always support the rabbit’s body when picking it up. Use one hand under the chest and the other under the hindquarters.
Lift Gently: Lift the rabbit smoothly and close to your body to provide a sense of security.

Proper Carrying

Hold Securely: Hold the rabbit against your chest with its head tucked under your arm or against your body. This prevents it from struggling and potentially injuring itself or you.
Avoid Squeezing: Do not squeeze the rabbit too tightly. Maintain a firm but gentle hold.

Specific Handling Techniques

Lifting from the hutch

Open the Door Slowly: Open the cage door slowly to avoid startling the rabbit.
Secure the Rabbit: Place one hand under the rabbit’s chest and the other under its hindquarters, then lift it out smoothly.

Restraining for Examination

Towel Wrap: Use a towel to wrap the rabbit securely but gently, leaving the head exposed. This helps calm the rabbit and keeps it still.
Hold Firmly: If a towel is not available, hold the rabbit firmly with one hand supporting the chest and the other holding the hindquarters.

Handling During Specific Situations

Breeding

Gentle Introduction: When introducing rabbits for breeding, handle them gently and place the doe in the buck’s cage. Monitor their interaction closely.
Separate if Aggressive: If either rabbit becomes aggressive, separate them immediately to prevent injuries.

Cleaning and Maintenance

Remove Rabbit: When cleaning cages or performing maintenance, remove the rabbit and place it in a safe area.
Return Carefully: Return the rabbit to its cage gently and ensure it is calm before closing the door.

7. Encouragement to Start Raising Meat Rabbits

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8. FAQs

Common Questions and Answers About Raising Meat Rabbits

What are the best breeds for meat rabbits?

The best breeds for meat rabbits include New Zealand, Californian. These breeds are known for their fast growth rates, good meat-to-bone ratios, and calm temperaments.

What should I feed my meat rabbits?

Meat rabbits should be fed a balanced diet of high-quality hay, commercial rabbit pellets, and fresh vegetables. Clean, fresh water should always be available.

How often should I clean rabbit cages?

Rabbit cages should be cleaned at least once a week. Remove waste and soiled bedding daily to maintain a clean environment and prevent health issues.

How do I handle and socialize my rabbits?

Handle rabbits gently and regularly to build trust. Support their body properly when lifting them, and use positive reinforcement with treats and gentle strokes to encourage socialization.

What are common health issues in meat rabbits?

Common health issues include respiratory infections, ear mites, and gastrointestinal problems. Regular health checks and maintaining a clean living environment can help prevent these issues.

How often do meat rabbits reproduce?

Does can produce up to 5-6 litters per year, with each litter containing 6-12 kits on average. Proper management and care are essential for maintaining the health of both the doe and her kits.

How do I wean rabbit kits?

Kits can start nibbling on solid food around 3 weeks old and are typically weaned at 6-8 weeks. Gradually separate them from the doe and ensure they have access to a balanced diet of hay, pellets, and water.

What housing options are best for meat rabbits?

Hutches and colony setups are popular housing options. Hutches provide individual space and are easy to clean, while colony setups allow for social interaction and more natural behaviors.

Where can I buy meat rabbits?

Meat rabbits can be purchased from reputable breeders and farms. Ensure you buy from a source that prioritizes the health and genetic quality of their rabbits.