newborn rabbits nest

Question
Our beautiful pet rabbit, Jackie, just gave birth to her first litter of pups.  She has access to the outside from her cage and built her nest in a corner by our house.  My concern is that neighborhood cats are going to get into the nest which is basically unprotected.  Should I try to move them or try to build something around the nest to offer some protection or should I just leave it alone.  When we came home this afternoon, some of the pups had been pulled from the nest but appear to be ok ( 1 has a small scratch on it)  I'm really worried about her.  Any help at all would be much appreciated!!!
Thanks
Kim

Answer
Dear Kim,

If this is your domestic rabbit she should be indoors in a safe room with her nest and babies.  Please read:

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

for instructions on how to set up a safe haven for mama and her babies.

If you suspect a cat was responsible for the scratch on the one baby, please get it to a good rabbit vet ASAP:

www.rabbit.org/vets

because even the slightest scratch from a filthy cat claw or tooth can cause fatal systemic infection in a baby rabbit.  Fluoroquinolone antibiotics must be administered within 12 hours for safety.

I hope this helps.

Dana