Rabbit Project Guidelines

1. General. Begin the project before March 1, October or November. Some common breeds are Netherlands Dwarf, Mini Rex, Mini Lop, Silver Marten and New Zealand White.

2. Selection. For exhibition, choose two young females (does) and one young male (buck) from a well-known rabbit breeder. The American Rabbit Breeder’s Association (ARBA) can provide names and addresses. Always select healthy, disease-free animals.

3. Shelter. Select a site with good drainage, adequate shade, plenty of surrounding space and freedom from excess wind/drafts. Shelter must protect from temperature extremes and predators. Use all wire cages, 30”X36”X18”, with baby saver wire (1/2”X1”) on all sides; use 1”X2” for tops and ½”X1” for floors. Indoor cages are best; hang cages from roof of buildings.

4. Feed. Use a good, 16% protein commercial feed. Limit feed until rabbit is in good condition; about 4-6 ounces per day. Growing bunnies and nursing does may be fed free choice. Be consistent and feed at the same hour each day.

5. Water. Give plenty of clean, fresh water. Automatic watering systems with nipple or dew-drop outlets in each cage, placed 6 inches above cage floor, make watering easy, help keep cages dry and improve sanitation.

6. Sanitation. Clean and disinfect all cages regularly. Dispose of dead rabbits immediately. Store feed in cool, clean, dry, well-ventilated area free from rodents and insects.

7. Disease & Parasite Control. Good sanitation will prevent many diseases. To help you identify, prevent and/or treat a disease, refer to rabbit project book or a book on rabbit diseases.

8. Preparation for exhibition. Depending on the breed, rabbits are shown from 3 to 6 months of age. Entry criteria are breed, age, sex and weight of the rabbit. Practice carrying and setting up your rabbit so that it will become used to handling. Develop a (every other day) routine of moistening your hands and rubbing down the rabbit, freeing it of loose hair. Know the show requirements; some require a pedigree. The ARBA registration number must be tattooed in right ear; owner’s identification in the left ear. Ensure you have the correct sex and age for the class in which you enter your rabbit. Rabbits should be transported in hand-carried, leakproof cages.

9. Breeding. Does give birth (kindle) 31 to 32 days after mating; a good litter size is eight. Leave young with does for eight weeks (weaning). Place weaned rabbits in separate cage.

10. Records. Records help you make decisions about your project. Keep information on selection, purchases, sales, weight, replacements, feed, deaths, breeding and kindling.