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Breeding like rabbits and rabbit breeding aren’t the same thing. Surprisingly successful rabbit breeding takes a bit more effort than some soft lighting and mood music.
While not uncommon, rabbits are considered exotic pets. The first thing to think about is what will you do with the offspring?
A few things to know. The male rabbit is a buck and the female a doe. Depending on size female rabbits generally mature before the male. A good rule of thumb is rabbits are completely ready to breed by the time both male and female are nine months old.
Unless you are an expert,ideally you should match the same types and sizes of rabbits for breeding. The more you know about the history of the rabbits including any health problems, the better. It goes without saying, stronger healthier animals breed better.
Timing is important. When the doe is ready to breed, her genital area will become swollen and very red. On the other hand, bucks are generally ready and willing to breed at anytime.
If the breeding is successful, you’ll know soon. The gestation period of rabbits is only 31 days. Near the end of the gestation, the doe will be ready to nest to deliver the kits (babies). You should help her by providing a nesting box completely filled with hay.
Once the kits arrive, you are officially a rabbit breeder.
