How to Raise Commercial Meat Rabbits

How to Raise Commercial Meat Rabbits. There are several reasons why rabbit owners breed their stock for meat. Rabbits can be kept in smaller spaces than chickens. A single female rabbit, or doe, can produce 1000 times her own body weight in meat each year. The fur also can be processed for a secondary source of income. New Zeland White and Californian rabbits are generally the two most popular types of rabbits to breed for commercial purposes, although most breeds will suffice.

Things Needed

• Rabbit cages
• Wire mesh
• Rabbit pellets
• Hay
• Alfalfa
• Greens
• Water
• Self-watering bottle
• Nesting box

Step 1

Keep each adult rabbit in its own cage. Two rabbits of the opposite sex will attempt to mate on an unscheduled basis and two rabbits of the same sex can become territorial. The cages should be approximately three feet wide and should be kept three to four feet off the ground. This will make it easier to handle the rabbits and keep them away from potential predators.

Step 2

Place the cages in an area that will keep the rabbits safe from the elements. A covered porch or a well ventilated barn will suffice.

Step 3

Line the bottom of a cage with wire mesh. This will make the cage more hospitable for the rabbits' sensitive feet.

Step 4

Clean the cage at least once a week. Rabbit fecal matter is riddled with bacteria that can make the rabbit ill. The feces also can easily attract flies and other unwanted insects.

Step 5

Feed the rabbits once a day. The most appropriate food is a mixture of store bought rabbit pellets and hay or alfalfa. The rabbit also will enjoy daily greens such as lettuce, apples or bananas. Cut down on the rabbit's intake or fruits and vegetables if it begins have frequent bouts of diarrhea. A pregnant female rabbit will require a larger supply of food daily.

Step 6

Allow the rabbits a steady supply of fresh, clean water. A self-watering bottle that can be attached to the side of the cage will suffice.

Step 7

Place the female rabbit into a male rabbit's cage when you wish to mate them. It is best to perform this procedure early in the morning or in the evening when the weather is cooler. After the mating has occurred, immediately place the female rabbit back into her own cage.

Step 8

Place a nesting box into the pregnant doe's cage approximately three weeks into the pregnancy. The box can be constructed of wood or cardboard and should contain materials such as hay that will help keep the babies dry and warm.

Step 9

Avoid touching the newborn rabbits until they are at least seven days old. The female will be pregnant for approximately one month. Remove the rabbits from their mother and place each in its own cage at two months of age.

References

• The Farm: Raising Rabbits
• Small Farms 4 You: Simple Things To Remember When Breeding Rabbits for Meat