Rabbits are a fantastic addition to any small farm. Whether you’re raising them for meat, breeding, or simply as pets, they are relatively easy to care for, highly productive, and require less space than other livestock. This guide covers everything you need to know to get started with raising rabbits on your farm.
1. Choosing the Right Breed
Selecting the right breed depends on your goals:
- Meat Production: New Zealand, Californian, and Silver Fox rabbits are top choices due to their fast growth and high meat yield.
- Pets & Show: Dutch, Holland Lop, and Mini Rex breeds are popular for their friendly nature and unique appearances.
- Fur & Specialty: Angora rabbits are prized for their wool, but they require more grooming and maintenance.
2. Housing & Shelter
Rabbits need a secure, well-ventilated, and predator-proof shelter. Consider the following:
- Hutches vs. Colony Housing: Hutches offer better individual control, while colony setups allow rabbits to socialize more naturally.
- Size Requirements: Each rabbit should have at least 4 square feet of space, with more for larger breeds.
- Protection from Elements: Ensure proper insulation in winter and shade/ventilation in summer.
3. Feeding & Nutrition
A well-balanced diet is key to healthy rabbits:
- Hay (75% of diet): Timothy or orchard grass hay provides necessary fiber.
- Pellets: High-quality pellets supplement essential nutrients.
- Fresh Greens: Limited amounts of kale, dandelion greens, and parsley can be given.
- Avoid: Iceberg lettuce, onions, and anything high in sugar.
4. Health & Common Issues
Keeping your rabbits healthy prevents costly and heartbreaking issues:
- Regular Checkups: Monitor for signs of illness like runny eyes, lethargy, or changes in appetite.
- Common Problems:
- GI Stasis (caused by poor diet or stress)
- Ear Mites (treated with medicated drops)
- Sore Hocks (prevented with proper flooring)
- Parasite Prevention: Keep hutches clean and use DE (diatomaceous earth) as a natural deterrent.
5. Breeding & Reproduction
If you plan to breed rabbits, proper planning is essential:
- Gestation: Rabbits have a short pregnancy of about 30 days.
- Litter Size: Average litters contain 6-10 kits.
- Weaning: Kits can be weaned at 6-8 weeks.
- Ethical Breeding: Always maintain healthy breeding stock and avoid overbreeding.
6. Processing & Meat Production
For those raising rabbits for meat, humane processing is crucial:
- Processing Age: Fryers (meat rabbits) are typically harvested at 8-12 weeks.
- Processing Methods: Always use humane dispatch methods.
- Utilizing the Whole Rabbit: Fur, organs, and bones can be used for various purposes.
7. Selling & Profitability
Rabbits can be a profitable addition to a small farm:
- Meat Sales: Sell to local markets, restaurants, or direct-to-consumer.
- Breeding Sales: High-quality breeding stock can be sold for a premium.
- Fur/Wool Sales: Angora wool is in high demand for hand-spinners and crafters.
- Pet & Show Rabbits: Special breeds can fetch high prices in pet and show markets.
Final Thoughts
Raising rabbits on a small farm is rewarding and can be a valuable source of income or sustainable food. With proper care, nutrition, and housing, you’ll have a thriving rabbitry in no time! Whether you’re in it for meat, fiber, or companionship, rabbits are a great addition to any homestead.