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goto bunnyrabbit.com news 2002 issue 1

Who Would Know?

We have had many inquires from many different breeders who raise many different breeds and types of rabbits.  The number one question is, “ My baby rabbits are dying, what do I do?”  We then have to ask them several basic questions and then many detailed questions.  Most of the time, we have no idea what the problem might be that is causing the loss of babies.  We will try to refer their questions to someone else who may have an answer or suggestion.

We have had some losses that were unexplainable.  Sometimes we just had to let them go because of no acceptable answers.  It’s nice to find out what the problem is so that it can be eliminated as soon as possible.  Being a breeder of any animal brings with it the job of noticing change in the animals, diagnosing the problems and doing what is necessary to rectify the situation.

Keeping a close eye on your animals, keeping good records of your animals an asking all the questions it takes to solve any problem are all necessary for having a productive business.

What kind of feed do you use?

Have you changed feeds lately?

Has the consistency of your feed changed?

Are your rabbits eating the same amount they normally do?

Is your water clean?

Has the water source changed?

Are your rabbits getting all the water they need?

Are the cages clean?

Are the nestboxes clean?

How did you disinfect the nestboxes?

Are your rabbits getting extra fiber from hay?

Is the hay clean?

What is your barn temperature?

What is your barn humidity level?

How is your weather?

Have you moved your rabbits?

Have you moved your cages?

Has someone else been in contact with your rabbits?

Have you brought in any new rabbits?

Have you been to any rabbit shows?

Have your rabbits been to any rabbit shows?

Has anything at all changed lately?

            These are just a few of the important questions that should be addressed.

            Who would know the answers to these questions?
          You should! 

After answering all of these questions we have found the best solutions from other knowledgeable breeders. There are some very well informed veterinarians but they are sometimes difficult to find. Our veterinarian is Dr Leo Gates in Universal City, Texas. There are many good books filled with a lot of great information. We highly recommend the book “Rabbit Production”. We also recommend joining the ARBA. With your ARBA membership you receive a copy of the “ARBA Official Guidebook. This book has a great deal of information including a disease section. The ARBA also offers videos and CD’s with important facts and suggestions.

        Good luck from bunnyrabbit.com