Faith Farm

Cold Weather Rabbit talk

There are just a few things to keep in mind when raising rabbits in cold weather.  Rabbits for the most part don't seem to mind cold.  They need to be out of the wind and dry.  This will also make it easier for you to spend time caring for them!  Here is a couple of things to consider:

Water:  Rabbits need water.  Frozen waterers can be a problem for both you and your rabbits.  The only cost affective thing I have come up with is using metal waterers in the winter.  They are easier to break the ice out of and do not bust like the clay or plastic waterers.  Rabbits love warm water in the cold.  You should take warm water to them atleast twice a day in freezing temperatures.  If your rabbits are licking the ice in the bowl they need more water and you should increase your warm water trips.

Food---Rabbits seem to eat alot more in the cold.  I increase the amount of hay in the cages.  This seems to provide them with what they need and does not increase your feed bill alot.

Pests---Pests like mice can really be a problem when it turns colder.  They need to be controlled or they will steal your rabbits food and spread disease. 

Air--make sure you have fresh air--closing up a rabbitry too tight can create poor air quality for your bunnies.

Heat--- That is up to you--Depending on where you live---I do not heat my rabbitry here as our winters are not that severe and I find it easier on the rabbits to adjust to cold weather --just be consistant in what you do-Rabbits don't adjust to changes rapidly.

Babies--winter is the peak breeding season for rabbits.  Adjust your diet needs for this and provide good nest boxes with plenty of fresh hay.  If it is extremly cold line the nest box with cardboard to help protect the new babies.  I always keep extra fur around for those does that do not pull enough fur.  Plan on shelter for your new arrivals before they come.  This will make winter chores so much easier.

If you ever have any bunny questions - just let me know - I'll be more than glad to help anytime I can!>Blessings>faithfarm

Rabbits

{ 09:01, Sunday, November 2, 2008 } { Posted by andiplus5 }

Hi! This is my first winter raising meat rabbits. Our first summer was a learning experience to say the least. I am glad to hear they breed better in winter because I was getting ready to give up. They all quit getting pregnant around June. Not a baby since until last week. One doe finally gave birth to 4 which is unusual for her. She usually has more. I would love to hear more about how to care for them. Do you have any plans for building your own nest boxes? Our neighbor built one for us out of scrap wood but I don't really have any more scrap wood. What else can we build it out of? I have the mama using the nest box right now, but I have 2 more does bred (i hope) and 3 more to get bred. So I really need more nest boxes. Any help would be appreciated.
Thanks.
Andi

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{ 09:18, Sunday, November 2, 2008 } { Posted by heritagehill }

Thanks for the info! What kind of hay is the best for them? Also, we have some extra alfalfa pellets right now, is it good to add that to their diet?
Marilyn