All the babies just died, what can I do for the mother?

Question
Hi,
We thought we had bought 2 female bunnies but apparently not.  Our bunny just gave birth to 6 babies 3 days ago.  She was doing a great job nesting, feeding etc.  Sadly, one of our cats (who she has been with since we got her) got into the nest and killed all of the babies!  We are so sad!  Now, I am concerned with the mother's health.  I know there are infections she can get from the milk.  Is there something either I or a vet can give her to stop the milk?  We don't want to lose her too!
Thank you for your help!  Our kids are so devastated.

Answer
Dear Ramara,

I am sorry about this tragedy.  

The mother's milk will take a few days to dry up, and she will be in discomfort for a day or two until this happens.  Keep a close eye on her, and feel her nipples to make sure they are not becoming red or swollen.

You can find a good rabbit vet here:

www.rabbit.org/vets

who can help if she seems to be in distress.  It would not be a bad idea to have a wellness check done to be sure she's okay.  If the male has been with her since the birth, then she is likely pregnant again.  The male can impregnate her within minutes of her giving birth.

Please see:

www.bio.miami.edu/hare/spay.html

The vet will be able to determine if mama bun is a good surgical candidate, but if not, then I guess you know not to let the cat anywhere near the next litter.  In the meantime, have the male neutered so that you won't have thousands of rabbits!  If you need an adoption contract to help you screen potential adopters (if she does have more babies), please write to me at dana@miami.edu and I will send you one.

Hope this helps.

Dana