size of litter

Question
My french lop had her first litter 4 days ago and I was amazed to find 9 huge rabbits! i has since died but the others all look healthy and active. I thought french lops had smaller litters than this, is it safe to breed her again later with the same buck? He is also a french lop, an otter. Should she be shut in the same hutch at night or allowed more freedom? She is a house rabbit and seems very content.

Answer
Dear Jan,

Surprise!  You just never know what will happen with a litter of babies.  I've not heard that French Lops have smaller litters, and a larger rabbit might just be capable of having more babies.  All depends on the ovulation.

As far as breeding her again with the same buck, please read:

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

for complete information before you do anything.

Mama should be kept with her babies at all times, since you never know when she is going to feed them.  She should be with them for a full eight weeks before weaning to prevent fatal intestinal disorders in the babies:

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

As the babies grow, you will need to provide more space so mama can get away from them when she needs some privacy.

Good luck with the little family!

Dana