Nature Center caring for baby Jack Rabbit

Question
We have a had a baby jack rabbit, estimated to be about 2 wks. old, brougt in to our Nature Center.  Unfortunatley, there are no rabbit rehabs near.  At the moment, I have been feeding it KMR about every 2 hours. He looks healthy for the time being, but has only been in our care for about a day.  The mother is confirmed dead.  Should I add some probiotics in the formula to build up the health of the intestines?  Any other suggestions??? Any info would be very helpful.  Thanks!

Answer
Dear Amber,

The formula I use for baby jackrabbits can be found here:

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

Keep a very sharp eye out for any sign of (1) runny stool and (2) sounds of congestion from the nose or chest.   These are the most common problems suffered by baby hares raised by humans.

They need to be fed only twice a day, but can get up to 10% of their body weight in formula at each feeding, if they'll take it.  Increase the amount gradually, as the baby learns to accept the formula.

I prefer to feed by dropper, having them lap it.  Forcing a nipple into the mouth and allowing suckling seems to predispose them to aspiration pneumonia, and that is just not worth the risk.  Once they learn to like the formula, they will lap readily, and can be weaned to a small, shallow bowl (with formula) relatively soon.

I hope the baby does well, but if you have problems, feel free to email me at dana@miami.edu

Dana