Bunnies Everywhere You Look A Beginners Guide to Raising Bunnies

Raising rabbits for meat is a rewarding and sustainable way to produce your own protein, and with the right guidance, it can be a straightforward process. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you get started.

Choosing the Right Breed

When selecting a breed for meat production, several factors should be considered, including bone-to-meat ratio, breeding quality, pelt quality, and behavior. The ideal breed should have a good balance between bone and meat, avoiding breeds that are overly bulky or those that are too lean.

Key Characteristics

• Bone-to-Meat Ratio: Opt for breeds that offer a healthy balance between bone and meat. Breeds like the Californian or Silver Fox are popular for their favorable meat-to-bone ratio.
• Breeding Quality: Choose breeds known for their reproductive efficiency. Two does and one buck can produce a significant amount of meat, with some setups yielding up to 180 pounds of meat per year.
• Pelt Quality: If you plan to utilize the pelts, select breeds with desirable fur. However, tanning pelts requires additional skills and equipment.
• Behavior: Select breeds that are easy to handle. Some breeds are more docile and less prone to biting, making them more suitable for beginners.

Setting Up Your Rabbitry

Cage vs. Colony

While colony settings may seem appealing, they are not recommended for beginners. Colony settings can lead to parasite issues and other health problems due to the rabbits being in contact with the ground. Instead, start with individual cages or hutches.

Building or Purchasing Hutches

Rabbits need clean, well-ventilated living spaces. You can either build or purchase hutches, ensuring they are off the ground to prevent contact with wild rabbits and potential diseases. A hutch should have clean feed trays, clean water, and adequate ventilation.

Space and Housing

Each rabbit should have its own cage, with one extra cage for a grow-out pen. The space required is minimal, with a 3 by 10 feet area sufficient for several rabbits. Ensure the hutch is in a cool, shady area during summer and protected from direct sun and wet conditions.

Breeding and Reproduction

Starting Your Stock

Begin with one buck and two or three does. This setup allows for manageable breeding and helps you gain experience without overwhelming yourself.

Breeding Process

• Maturity: Ensure does reach adult size and weight before breeding. Smaller breeds mature around five months, while larger breeds take around nine months.
• Breeding Cycle: A doe can be bred again shortly after giving birth. Stagger breeding times to have a fresh litter every six weeks.
• Buck Management: Do not breed more than three does to a buck within a week to avoid harming his fertility.

Raising Healthy Rabbits

Clean Living Quarters

Good housekeeping is crucial for preventing and controlling diseases. Clean the hutches regularly, using absorbent materials like wood shavings or sawdust to keep the living space dry and fresh.

Diet and Health

• Balanced Diet: Provide a balanced diet to avoid health issues like constipation. Ensure access to greenery and avoid too much dry feed.
• Common Ailments: Be aware of common issues like fleas, lice, and heat stroke. Use dusting powders for parasites and keep rabbits out of direct sun to prevent heat stroke.

Butchering and Processing

Slaughter Age

Rabbits are typically ready for slaughter around 90 days. This age ensures they are large enough for consumption but still tender.

Humane Slaughter

• Method: Use a humane method such as delivering a sharp blow to the head, followed by hanging the rabbit upside down and removing the head with a sharp knife. Allow the rabbit to bleed out before skinning and gutting.
• Processing: After slaughter, wash the rabbit in cold water and prepare it according to your recipe. Save the organ meats as they are nutritious and delicious.

Legal Considerations

Research Local Laws

Before starting your rabbitry, research the laws in your state, county, and town. Ensure you comply with regulations regarding the processing and consumption of rabbit meat.

Social Considerations

Managing Public Perception

Be mindful of how you present your rabbitry to friends and neighbors. Avoid announcing your intention to raise meat rabbits, as this can lead to unwanted drama. Instead, refer to them as "meat rabbits" to make the concept more acceptable.

Community and Resources

Joining Communities

Join online communities or local groups dedicated to raising meat rabbits. These resources can provide valuable advice and support as you begin your journey.

By following these guidelines, you can successfully raise rabbits for meat, ensuring a sustainable and healthy source of protein for your family.