Posted in Homestead Barnyard

Good Morning!  We are going to discuss one of the more controversial topics in raising rabbits---What to feed them.  There is many ways to go about this and many opinions about how to do this as well.  For me....I try to make things as simple and uncomplicated as possible.  When your rabbitry gets large, time is precious and maintaining health in your rabbits is of upmost importance.   Sick rabbits take time and we all have plenty to do in our day!  We want healthy rabbits producing healthy meat for our table and we want to do this in the most time effecient way, right?  SO with all that in mind I am going to share with you how I handle feeding my rabbits.  I have not had to deal with sickness and my rabbits are healthy well producing stock.  Every morning I feed a 17% rabbit pellet via feeder and a handful of alfalfa hay.  I provide all the clean fresh water the rabbits can drink and that's it folks-nothing more.  I return in the evening and make sure the rabbits have plenty of fresh water to make it through the night.  I also check to make sure there is not pellets left over in there feeder and that each animal looks healthy and happy.  You will easily be able to determine how much pellet each stage of rabbit needs by their weight.  If a rabbit looks too fat-cut back on the pellet.  Fat rabbits don't breed well.  Males get too lazy and it complicates delivery on the does.  Now there is one exception to the rule---When a doe delivers her kits--I offer her a little tid-bit for energy.  Usually a little slice of apple.  This makes her happy and gives her the energy she needs.  It also allows you to examine the kits and remove any dead or waste stuff from the nest box.  I also increase the feed and hay while a doe is nursing.  It takes alot to nurse, so be prepared to double her intake.  Many people also give race horse oats in a seperate self feeder to a doe with a new litter.  I think this is probably a fine idea, it is just one I have never implimented.  I do not feed my rabbits garden scraps or fresh greens.  One must be careful when introducing new food stuffs to rabbits.  I have seen many raisers loose rabbits from diarrhea.  If your rabbit is not eating well the first thing you should check is its water.  Rabbits will not eat without water  available.  If you are using a water valve system, check the valves for clogs or sticking.  Clean your water system and examine the stool for any signs of distress or illness.  Droppings should be large and round--well formed.  Not clumping.  *(We will go into health issues later.)  Basically when it comes to feeding your rabbits be consistant and uncomplicated.  I hope this has helped!  Blessings>faithfarm