angora rabbits

Question
We got 2 angora rabbits a year ago and now twice we have had babies but both times all seven were dead. I believe they were born dead. Just wondering what could be the problem.

Answer
Hello,

There are a number of reasons a doe can lose her litter. First, I will say it is common for first time mothers to lose their litter. Occasionally, they also have trouble with the second litter. It is less common for does to have issues with their third litter.

If a doe is stressed for any reason, that can cause her to abandon or even consume the babies. Owners are often excited about the new arrival and tend to spend too much time around the new mother. I am an advocate of leaving the mother alone as much as possible, in a very quiet place.