Baby rabbits: when can they be handled?

Question
My lop eared rabbit has had 4 babies a week ago,they are strong and active.when is the best time to start handling them.would i be ok to hold them so soon.

Answer
Dear Deb,

You can pet them and gently handle them, but be sure to thoroughly disinfect your hands before doing so.  The normal bacteria on our skin can be *VERY* dangerous to baby rabbits whose immune sytems are not yet fully developed.

Don't pick them up, as they are very jumpy and can pop out of your hands without warning.  A fall of even a few inches onto a hard surface can be fatal, especially after they have been fed and have full stomachs.  It's best to just stroke them and handle them without picking them up.

They will need mama's milk for a full 8 weeks.  Please read:

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

and especially:

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

Hope this helps.

Dana